MA Leadership of School Mental Health and Wellbeing
Leeds Beckett University
Course Overview
The MA Leadership of School Mental Health and Wellbeing is a specialist postgraduate programme designed for senior leaders in schools who are responsible for developing, leading, and evaluating whole-school approaches to mental health and wellbeing.
The course equips practitioners with the confidence, knowledge, and critical insight needed to assess current mental health provision, apply evidence-based practice, and lead meaningful, sustainable change across school communities. Students engage deeply with theory, policy, and global best practice while developing reflective leadership approaches that place wellbeing, resilience, and inclusion at the centre of school life.
Academic Structure and Learning Experience
This is a part-time programme studied over two years, carrying 180 Level 7 credits. Teaching is delivered through a blended model, combining on-campus learning at Leeds Beckett's Headingley Campus with supported distance learning.
The programme is made up entirely of compulsory modules, including:
- Whole-school approaches to mental health
- Leading student resilience
- Working with local mental health support agencies
- Evaluating global perspectives on mental health in schools
- A Major Independent Study
Learning is strongly practice-based. Modules are often delivered through conference-style sessions, group discussion, presentations, and collaborative learning, led by staff with professional and research expertise in school mental health.
Assessment uses a balanced mix of coursework and presentations, culminating in a 10,000-word dissertation focused on improving mental health practice within the student's own school context.
Recognition, Accreditation and Value
The programme is awarded by Leeds Beckett University and leads to the Master of Arts in Leadership of School Mental Health and Wellbeing, a Level 7 postgraduate qualification recognised in the UK and internationally.
Students may also exit with a Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership of School Mental Health and Wellbeing, providing recognised interim awards.
The qualification offers strong professional value for school leaders seeking to take on or formalise strategic responsibility for mental health, wellbeing, safeguarding, and resilience at whole-school level.
Flexibility, Support and Progression
Designed specifically for working school leaders, the programme offers a flexible part-time structure that allows students to integrate study with demanding professional roles. The blended delivery model supports engagement through both face-to-face and online learning communities.
Students benefit from:
- Access to research-active academic staff with professional expertise
- Structured support through the Virtual Learning Environment
- A dedicated supervisor for the Major Independent Study
- Opportunities to engage in a professional community of practice with peers in leadership roles
Graduates are well positioned to progress into senior leadership roles, wellbeing and inclusion leadership positions, advisory or consultancy roles, or further postgraduate research. The independent study also provides a strong foundation for doctoral-level study in education or wellbeing-related fields.