Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence in Leadership Development: The Staff College Anniversary

This year, The Staff College reaches a significant milestone – our 25th anniversary. Since our foundation in 1999, we have been at the forefront of developing leadership and management capacity within local authorities and children’s services. It’s a journey that has seen us evolve from a small team with a big vision to a leading voice in the sector, championing the cause of effective leadership across the UK. Reflecting on this journey, Jane Parfrement, Chief Executive of The Staff College, shared, “Celebrating 25 years is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion that have been the hallmark of The Staff College since its inception. We have been committed to empowering leaders who make a real difference in the […]

Announcement: New Chief Executive Appointment

After just over three years at the helm of The Staff College, it’s with great sadness that we share the news that our Principal, Jo Davidson, plans to step down from her role in the summer. Jo has overseen an incredible transformation in her time at The Staff College, which has seen the team, associates, and most importantly, the impact the college has had on public services, grow & develop. While Jo is stepping down, in her own words, she’s actively avoiding using the ‘R’ (retirement!) word, and looks forward to continuing her work at The Staff College as an associate. Of course, this means that we’re set to welcome a new leader of The Staff College, and we’re incredibly […]

The Staff College leads consortium to deliver Future Leaders Programme

THE STAFF COLLEGE & CONSORTIUM WINS MAJOR DfE BID TO SUPPORT FUTURE LEADERS OF CHILDREN’S SERVICES   With a three-year investment of £3m (1 year guaranteed, with two further years proposed), the Department for Education announced a recent initiative aimed at increasing the pool of talent able to become Directors of Children’s Services and supporting newly appointed Directors. The DfE’s “Future Leaders Programme for Directors of Children’s Services” invited suppliers to design, develop and deliver a national leadership programme, attracting a diverse range of participants with strong potential to progress to DCS roles whilst equipping them with the core behaviours, skills and capacities necessary to do so. The tender process began in late 2019, inviting single contractors and consortia to […]

The Staff College announce new Principal

The Staff College has announced that Jo Davidson has been appointed as the new Principal of the College following the previously announced retirement of the current Chief Executive, Anton Florek. Jo will work with Anton during a phased induction period in April, fully picking up the reins in May. Anton will continue to be involved with the work of the College acting as strategic advisor and working closely with Jo. Chair of the College’s Board Martin Pratt said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to secure someone of the calibre of Jo to lead the College through the next phase of its journey. She brings huge experience and a deep knowledge of the children’s services sector having worked in […]