For the fourth consecutive year we are running our acclaimed three day course for officers new to policy work. The course held in April this year was oversubscribed so in response to demand we are repeating it in October.

Some of those who attended had been working in policy for a year or so, others for just a few weeks.   People came from different authorities across the UK and had different backgrounds…but what they all had in common was a desire to 'Step Up' in their policy role and widen their range of skills.

The theory of our course is based on the Policy Network's sixteen competencies but it also builds in plenty of practical skills.   We make sure that there are plenty of opportunities to get to know people and build contacts. This year, we’ve also got a special session on the broader policy framework from a colleague in the IDeA.

The people who have been on our courses are really positive.....

Here are some of the things that past participants have said about the training

“I enjoyed the course and came away with meeting all my objectives. I met a group of   people in the same role as   me and have now established a network of friends for problems.”

“ Really clear presentations with good illustrative examples which put the learning into context.”

"The facilitators were really friendly & welcoming."

"I now know what policy is all about!"

So, if you feel that you or a colleague could benefit from spending three days away with similar minded folk and two tutors currently working in local authority policy teams then read on....

The course will run from 6 to 8 October at the Holiday Inn, Stratford-upon-Avon.   This is a high quality venue, easy to access by car, train or plane.   The cost of this training is £595 (plus VAT).   This includes accommodation for 2 nights and all food and training materials.

Previous participants have hailed from both corporate and directorate policy posts or have been performance or LSP officers.

The course will be shaped around participants' needs so we get people who 'apply to attend' to give us some background about previous experience and current skill levels.  

Numbers are limited, so please complete and return the registration form as soon as possible to book your place.

For further information regarding the course administration please contact Rosemary McMahon at enquiries@thepolicynetwork.org.uk or call her on 01920 463286.  

If you would like to discuss whether the course might be right for you, then contact Ruth Atkinson at ruth.atkinson@eden.gov.uk or call her on 01768 212202.   Ruth will be one of the tutors and she co-delivered last year's successful course.