We believe that good leaders in the public service:

• engage, motivate and inspire others
• give vision and set clear direction
• create the conditions where people can prioritise and take tough decisions
• focus on results
• model public service values.

Leaders understand the system in which they and their people operate and are able to influence the system beyond their own organisation to achieve outcomes.

Effective leaders learn every day and they help those with whom they work to learn and to apply their learning. Leadership is not just about solving problems but is also about anticipating change and identifying and achieving goals. Good leaders ask questions, build the capability of those around them and help their organisations to adapt to change.

The Leadership and Strategy Practice at the National School offers programmes, tailored training, consultancy and coaching through which we aim to:

• help people in the Civil Service and the wider public sector to develop themselves to lead others and to lead their organisations for the benefit of the public service, as well as to develop the talent of current and future leaders. See our Developing Leaders programmes
• help those who lead to understand the context in which they lead, including the political dimensions of their work, so they are better able to achieve outcomes for the public. See our Leadership and Government programmes
• help leaders work across boundaries and complex delivery systems to achieve lasting and real results for the public. See our Leading Across the Whole System programmes

Leadership skills for middle and senior managers
We also offer a range a leadership programmes which are essential development for middle and senior managers to function effectively