Across the North East, we know that strong, compassionate leadership is at the heart of making a difference for children, young people, and families. That’s why North East ADCS, in partnership with The Staff College, created a leadership offer designed to nurture and empower leaders across children’s services, from social care, early help, SEND and education.

At the centre of this offer is the Stepping into System Leadership Programme, and we’re delighted to celebrate the first cohort who have now completed their journey.

From the very first session, warmly opened by Sally Robinson and Chris Bell, the tone was set: this would be a space for growth, reflection, and connection. A space where leaders could pause, learn, and build the confidence and resilience needed to lead in complex systems, together.

This programme complements other regional and national initiatives like the coaching programme, the Social Worker to First Line Manager programme, and the BALI programme. Together, they’re helping to grow a strong, values-led pipeline of leaders who lead with clarity, courage, and care.

Over the course of the programme, 29 leaders from 12 local authorities came together to explore: system leadership – seeing the bigger picture and working across boundaries; strategic skills – building partnerships and making bold, informed decisions; and, practical tools – navigating complexity with confidence and compassion.  But perhaps most importantly, they built relationships, deep, trusting connections that will continue to support and sustain them long after the programme ends.

The programme’s four core aims, deepening understanding of equitable leadership, exploring personal impact, learning from real-world challenges, and committing to action, came to life through rich dialogue, reflective practice, and courageous conversations.

Feedback from participants was heartfelt and inspiring. Words like “thought-provoking,” “valuable,” “revealing,” and “inspiring” came up time and again. Many spoke of the power of peer learning, the quality of facilitation, and the safe, inclusive space created by The Staff College. But above all, they celebrated the relationships:

“Excellent group that made every contribution valuable and valid.”

“Interactive and engaging, I felt heard and inspired.”

“So valuable and an excellent opportunity.”

As someone who has long championed inclusive, relational leadership, I know how vital it is to create spaces like this, spaces that challenge, uplift, and connect. These aren’t just professional networks; they are communities of practice, built on trust and shared purpose.

The evaluation showed the programme delivered strongly on its aims, especially in promoting inclusive leadership and inspiring action. Participants left with new insights, renewed energy, and a commitment to keep growing.

Looking ahead, participants offered thoughtful suggestions to shape future cohorts; more time for reflection, more voices from directors, and more space to embed learning. These ideas will help us continue to evolve and strengthen the offer.

This first cohort has laid a powerful foundation, not just for future leaders, but for a culture of reflective, relational leadership across our region. By investing in ourselves and each other, we’re not only growing as leaders, we’re strengthening the whole system.