Our Next Generation programme offered ambitious and talented councillors an unparalleled political development opportunity – uniquely developed within party political traditions and with party political experts.
Overview
Our Next Generation programme equips emerging political leaders with the skills and confidence to be bold champions of local government, progress in their political careers and draw on and become part of the flourishing network of peers and critical friends.
A key aim for the 2022/23 Next generation programme was to recruit and support a cohort of at least 60 councillors, who were looking to become portfolio holders, cabinet members or senior leaders within their council.
Highlights
During 2022/23, programme highlights and achievements included:
- we delivered 12 Next Generation modules across our four political group offices
- we recruited 63 councillors to the Next Generation programme from 54 councils
- 100 per cent of delegates said they were ‘satisfied’ with the programme (with 96 per cent of delegates saying they were ‘very satisfied’).
Delegate feedback
The Next Generation programme was excellent, and the leaders of each session were very knowledgeable and generous with their time. The breadth of what was covered is what has really boosted my confidence and abilities as we were able to explore what leadership means from many different perspectives.
I found the tutors exceptionally supportive. This was a safe space in which to examine and develop my own leadership style in a setting in which I was comfortable, even though at first, I didn't know anyone else there. I feel I really took a lot of skills and a better self-knowledge away from the modules and I thank the team for all they did.
Every councillor who wants to lead in some capacity should do this training, whether that’s to be leader of the council, or to lead on specific areas within your council. It’s genuinely the best training I’ve ever done, and I’ve learnt so much and met an incredibly supportive group of people.
Next Generation has really helped me to evaluate my leadership style and also to recognise the leadership styles of my colleagues. It has helped me to become more self-aware and given me some practical ways of improving my delivery and performance in public which is invaluable.
