I’m coming to the end of the Help to Grow: Management Programme at the University of Central Lancashire, and it’s been a useful opportunity to step back and focus on practical changes I can apply in my day-to-day role.
Alongside a busy period across Cotton Court and my work with FYC, completing the programme has helped me take a more considered approach to decision-making and feel better prepared for what comes next. The structure of the course made it easier to look at the bigger picture while staying grounded in the realities of day-to-day work. It encouraged more deliberate thinking around growth, leadership and direction, with a focus on sustainable progress rather than quick fixes.
That shift in approach has been valuable , prompting me to question habits, look at challenges differently, and spot opportunities that might otherwise be overlooked.
Being part of a classroom-based programme alongside other senior leaders was genuinely useful. Although everyone came from different sectors, many of the challenges were similar, and the conversations were practical and open. They often helped sense-check decisions or look at things from a different angle.
The peer group was a key part of the experience. Having space to talk things through honestly, share what’s working (and what isn’t), and hear how others approach similar situations was valuable. The coaching sessions and one-to-one mentoring helped turn those conversations into actions that felt realistic to apply.
The sessions themselves were well pitched and relevant, covering strategy, finance, digital, leadership, brand and responsible business without feeling academic. I’ve come away with practical tools and a clearer idea of where to focus next.
As I finish the programme, I’m looking ahead to putting this into practice. With a busy period across Cotton Court and FYC, the timing has worked well and has helped bring clarity to decisions around growth.
If you’re in a leadership role and looking for practical space to step back and think more deliberately about how you lead and make decisions, more information about the course and upcoming cohorts is available here. https://www.lancashire.ac.uk/cpd/courses/help-to-grow-management
Programme details
- 12 modules (mixture of in person and online)
- Peer group coaching + one-to-one mentoring
- 12 weeks
- 90% Government funded – £750 total cost (normally £7,500)
Places are limited. You can register online or speak directly to UCLan via HelptoGrow@uclan.ac.uk