TEACHERS across Worcestershire and the West Midlands have been praised for their commitment and hard work, after earning the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

A total of 120 people are due to be presented with the award, a leadership qualification which prepares them for the role of headteacher.

Two graduate ceremonies are being held to mark their achievement, including one at Stourport Manor.

The NPQH is awarded by the National College for School Leadership. Heather Du Quesnay, director and chief executive of the college, said the scheme helped ensure that pupils received the high quality of education they deserved.

"I want to congratulate all the teachers who have completed NPQH for the time and effort they have put into preparing for the crucial role of headteacher," she said.

The qualification, which is worked for alongside teachers' daily school duties, builds in extra leadership and management skills.

A range of study methods are used in the qualification, including online learning, schools-based assessment and residential training.