Plan and Deliver two FE Sector Leadership Programmes- FE Strategic Leadership & Preparing for CEO Programmes

To deliver the FESLP programme the ETF has commissioned a delivery partner with an outstanding track record in the delivery and impact of leadership development. The delivery partner will co-design the programme, alongside the ETF and a sector steering group, that includes representation from the Department for Education. The delivery partner has demonstrated significant added value to the co-design of the programme with ETF; its status contributes to enhancing of the reputation of FE senior leadership both within, and outside of the sector.

The delivery partner will work with ETF to review and develop the content and design of the most recent FESLP programme to ensure it meets the current needs of the sector, and then deliver the Programme.

The FESLP alumni programme is delivered twice a year, typically June and December, to further support the previous cohorts of the FESLP programme by engaging them in up to date education policy changes, support on evolving systems leadership practice, building on their network and creating a culture of change that will support the whole sector. The alumni events are an opportunity for current leaders to network, share best practice and support the sector as policies change, grow and develop. The delivery partner will build in a programme of alumni activity that will compliment the FESLP programme but also look to a changing horizon of leadership in order to encourage development in a supportive environment.

Preparing for CEO programme, targeted at aspiring CEOs/Principals, has been a critical contribution to the ETF’s leadership offer, which aims to address challenges within the FE sector and build its leadership capacity. Preparing for CEO develops the confidence, skills and leadership tools to support participants to step-up to the roles of Principal and CEO, and ensures that there is a talent pipeline to the most senior executive roles within the FE sector.

Preparing for CEO is specifically aimed at experienced FE senior leaders who are looking to step-up to the role of Principal or CEO within the next 1-2 years. Usually, participants on this programme have the role title of Deputy Principal or Deputy CEO.

Since 2018, the ETF has delivered the Preparing for CEO Programme to approximately 150 participants, with a further 25 currently going through the programme. The success of this programme is demonstrated by the 35 alumni who have been promoted to CEO or Principal since it began.

The programmes require the delivery partner to deliver an outstanding high quality executive leadership programme that will meet the needs of the senior and executive leaders, the demands of the Department of Education, the individual organisation, and set a standard of excellence to inspire future leaders.

The contract duration is from 16 December 2021 to 31 December 2023.

Building on the current FESLP and Preparing for CEO programmes, the ETF seeks to develop its support further, taking into account current leadership approaches, research into effective learning and development.