The Catholic Senior Leadership Programme is designed for current and aspiring senior leaders. 

The programme is structured to include 3 single-day conferences including a residential event; one gathering per term. The programme does not have a set curriculum, but the content is designed to be relevant to the particular roles of the participants and is being developed continuously.

The programme explores a range of themes, from the fundamental principles and purposes of the authentic mission and vision of Catholic education to detailed discussion of specific leadership and management practice in and across Catholic schools. Thus, in one session, participants might be introduced to Catholic Social Teaching and how it informs the mission of Catholic schools and, in the next, considering practically how to manage difficult conversations about, for example, professional performance.

The content remains flexible so that it can be moulded in part by the needs and interests of the participants. They are given regular opportunities to raise questions and issues they would like to address and the presenters, where possible, then tailor their material accordingly. We are privileged to have leading national Catholic leaders and theologians join us to deliver sessions as well as serving Catholic professionals and leaders from across the north west who share how they are living out the Catholic mission within their own educational setting.

The Training Partnership’s programmes are informed, in part, by the notion of the ‘enriched practitioner’.  The enriched practitioner model observes that our effectiveness in our Catholic leadership role has four dimensions or aspects: Person, Purpose. Perception and Practice. The Church is looking to develop people who are enriched in all these aspects and, although programmes are not formally structured in this four-fold manner, participants are encouraged to reflect on these dimensions of their own development.

The inter-diocesan and cross-phase nature of the programme is one of the features appreciated by participants. It creates much wider networking opportunities amongst individuals working in a more varied range of settings. The benefits are both professional and pastoral and can continue long after the programme has been completed. 

Entry requirements: A minimum of 2 years’ experience in a middle or senior leadership role.

Reflection and formation: Participants will be asked to keep a reflective journal that will guide and develop their ability to articulate their vision for Catholic education. It will contribute to future career development, such as writing a supporting statement as part of the application process.

Teaching: The course will be a blend of online learning and termly in-person sessions.

Course dates for 2025-2026:

• Day 1: Thursday 13th November 2025
• Day 2 (Residential): Thursday 26th February 2026 (from 4pm) - Friday 27th February 2026 (all day)
• Day 3: Wednesday 10th June 2026

Cost: £700