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Grant Thornton and Cranfield University have launched a new apprenticeship for NHS and healthcare professionals to build strategic leadership skills to progress their careers in this industry.
Designed for individuals who are from clinical and non-clinical backgrounds, the Senior Leader Apprenticeship Level 7 aims to enable individuals to acquire the knowledge, skills, behaviours and mindset of a leader who can “undertake transformational change” and support their teams in doing so.
Through a combination of in-person and online learning, participants will develop skills to become effective transformational leaders, with a focus on compassion, inclusion and the ability to lead across complex systems within healthcare.
Apprentices will also engage in topics including personal and professional development, systems leadership, creating change, and maintaining resilience.
The 15-month course covers the future skills required by healthcare professionals, including big data, data analytics, systems leadership and sustainability. The first cohort is due to start in January 2025, with applications open from 15 October 2024. The £14k cost can also be fully funded by Apprenticeship Levy contributions.
Apprentices who successfully complete the programme will receive the following qualifications: Level 7 Senior Leadership Award, CMI Award in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice, and NHS Leadership Academy Award in Senior Healthcare Leadership.
Grant Thornton and Cranfield University, in partnership with the NHS Leadership Academy, will be hosting a series of webinars for interested participants to find out more about the programme.
Justin Rix, partner and head of people advisory at Grant Thornton, said: “The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the NHS must adapt to changes in technology, regulations, patient expectations and healthcare delivery models.
“This exciting new programme will help healthcare professionals improve personal impact to help drive progress, deliver greater value, act as a coach and mentor and deliver commercial and strategic business objectives.”
Dr Steph Russell, course director from Cranfield University, added: “This is a really timely programme for those working in healthcare, which we know is a challenging and complex sector. With plans to radically reform the NHS, it’s crucial that management and leadership competencies are in place.”
