This page sets out the key dates, commitments and costs for the Yorks100.
It is designed to help you—and those supporting you—make an informed decision about whether the programme is right for you, right now.
If you have questions after reading, we encourage you to get in touch.
Selection process
Joining the Yorks100 is a selective process. Each stage is designed to be clear, fair and developmental—helping us understand whether the programme is the right fit for you, and giving you insight into whether it feels right for this moment in your leadership journey.
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The application form is your opportunity to introduce yourself and your motivations for applying to the programme.
Applications will open in early December and close on Sunday 23rd February 2026.
We are conscious of the limits of any written form. No application can capture the full richness of who you are, where you have come from, or the leadership you practise day to day. For that reason, we encourage you to see this stage as an introduction rather than a full presentation.
The form is deliberately short and focused. It serves two purposes:
To check alignment with the ethos, intent and design of the Yorks100
To understand how your experience and aspirations connect to the programme
You will be asked for:
Basic personal, sponsor and referee details
A brief outline of your recent career history
Short written responses to three reflective questions about your motivation, experience of closing disadvantage gaps, and what would most support your next step into headship
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Once the application window closes, they are reviewed by assessors from the Yorks100 team.
At this stage, we are not looking for polished answers or a particular leadership style. We are looking for evidence of alignment, potential, reflection and readiness—and for leaders who will both contribute to, and benefit from, a strong cohort experience.
Shortlisted applicants are invited to the next stage.
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Shortlisted candidates attend an in-person selection day in the region.
The Yorks100 Cohort 4 Selection Day will take place, in Yorkshire, on Tuesday 28 April 2026.
The day is designed to be rigorous, supportive and human. It typically includes:
Individual and group activities
Opportunities to discuss leadership challenges and judgment
Time to ask questions and meet members of the programme team
Just as importantly, the day gives you space to decide whether the programme feels like the right commitment for you.
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All successful applicants are invited to a 90-minute welcome webinar in the Summer Term.
This session:
Introduces the cohort and programme team
Sets expectations for the year ahead
Supports practical planning with your school or trust
The programme formally begins with an opening residential in September 2026, which marks the start of the shared learning journey.
What happens when?
The Yorks100 runs across one academic year. The rhythm of the programme is intentional, balancing challenge, reflection and application.
Frequently asked questions
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Participants should expect a meaningful but manageable commitment alongside a full-time role. Across the year, this typically includes:
Around 13 days out of school for in-person elements
Approximately 9 evening webinars
Around 15 hours per term of asynchronous learning (reading, videos and reflection)
We are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments where needed.
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The programme blends in-person and online learning.
In-person elements include residentials, conferences and school visits.
Online elements include evening webinars, coaching and community-based learning.
Most online activity takes place outside the school day.
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The Yorks100 is not currently an accredited qualification. It is designed to complement, not replace, formal pathways such as NPQs.
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Indicative costs for the year are:
Primary: £1,750
Special/AP: £2,500
Secondary: £3,500
These costs cover programme delivery, travel for out-of-region visits, and accommodation and catering for residentials.
If cost is a barrier, please get in touch.
We do not want funding to be the reason a strong candidate cannot take part.
Next steps
If the Yorks100 feels like the right programme for you—or if you would like to talk it through before applying—we would love to hear from you.