Following the overwhelming success and inspiring energy of our inaugural cohort, we are delighted to open applications for the second iteration of our flagship Leadership and Management Development Programme (LMDP), launching in January 2027.
Delivered in expert partnership with Counterculture Partnership LLP , this 15-month journey is designed to give current and aspiring Student Services Managers an in-depth understanding of strategic leadership. In an ever-evolving FE and HE landscape, the programme equips the next generation of sector leaders with the strategic tools, resilience, vision, and peer networks needed to navigate complex organisational challenges and drive excellence on their campuses.
Building Strategic Vision and Resilience
Seeing our first cohort come together has marked a transformative chapter for Student Services leadership. From lively in-person launches to virtual masterclasses, watching participants engage in open dialogue, push beyond their comfort zones, and take immediate strategic insights back to their institutions reinforces why this initiative is so vital.
Spanning 15 months, the LMDP combines monthly virtual sessions, interactive workshops, 1:1 dedicated coaching, and key in-person gatherings, concluding with a showcase at our Annual Conference. Counterculture’s deep expertise in organisational development ensures a curriculum that is both high-impact and deeply relevant.
Core modules cover:
🏛️ History of FE & sector context
🎯 Strategic thinking & influencing
💬 People management & challenging conversations
📊 Governance, reporting & financial literacy
✨ Quality assurance & measuring impact
🤝 1:1 mentoring with experienced FE professionals
📁 Personal research projects & reflective journals
Hear from our current cohort
Don’t just take our word for it; here is what members of our current cohort have to say about their experience on the programme:
“The opportunity to meet colleagues from colleges all over England and share good practice and ideas has been invaluable in this learning experience.”
“The NAMSS Leadership and Management Programme has been a positive learning experience; it has pushed me to think beyond my comfort zone of my own management style and organisation. It is a really useful programme to develop in a safe space.”
Who should apply?
Whether you are a coordinator or team lead looking to step into management, an aspiring leader, or a Student Services Manager who is new to their role or keen to strengthen their strategic competencies, this safe and supportive learning space is built for you.
Subsidised Pricing
By investing in our people, NAMSS ensures that Student Services remains a powerhouse of innovation across post-16 education. To support this vision, NAMSS is subsidising each place by up to 50%, bringing the total cost to £1,250 per participant. Every participant also receives a free place at one of our 1-day NAMSS conferences and a subsidised place at our Annual National Conference.
Key dates and how to apply
🛑 Application Deadline: Monday, 9 November 2026 at 9am
📩 Outcome Notification: By Friday, 20 November 2026
🚀 Cohort Kick-off: Friday, 29 January 2027
Read the full details, view the schedule, and apply online today
