Designed to help aspiring CEOs articulate their organisation’s purpose, set a clear vision, and think strategically for the short, medium, and long term.
Launched in 2018, this programme funded by the Department for Education (DfE) and delivered by Oxford Saïd Business School, is aimed specifically at experienced further education (FE) and skills leaders who are looking to step up to the role of CEO in the next one to two years.
What will you gain?
The Preparing for CEO Programme will help participants to:
deepen understanding of the FE CEO role and develop a clear plan for the step up into senior leadership
build understanding of adaptive leadership and the CEO’s role as a leader of change
explore how organisational culture shapes high performance in education, including how to diagnose, improve, and sustain culture
develop understanding of the CEO’s role in setting vision and articulating purpose and values
strengthen understanding of governance and the CEO’s role in working effectively with governors
enhance understanding of the CEO as Chief Accounting Officer and their responsibilities in strategic finance
finalise an individual development plan and identify next steps towards a CEO role, working collaboratively in tutor groups
create a sustainable network of support through the ETF, Oxford Saïd Business School, and alumni.
By the end of the programme, participants will be able to work effectively with complex internal and external stakeholders, lead high-performing teams, manage performance with strong commercial acumen, and demonstrate a deep commitment to public value.
Who can apply?
The programme is open to experienced FE and skills leaders who are looking to step up to the role of CEO in the next 1-2 years.
Applications are welcome from both new and experienced leaders who are committed to their own development and to contributing to the future of the sector.
50 percent of the places on the programme will be fully funded by the DfE. These will be allocated to applicants who meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the application form.
Programme structure
The programme includes two core phases:
Phase 1: GatenbySanderson Development Centre – Autumn 2025
Before the residential, participants complete a tailored leadership development process delivered by GatenbySanderson.
Phase 2: Residential at Saïd Business School – 2 to 6 February 2026
This in-person, week-long residential is delivered at Oxford Saïd Business School. It includes:
Expert-led teaching on strategy, finance, systems leadership and organisational culture
Peer-to-peer learning and facilitated group discussions
Time to step away from day-to-day demands and focus on development and strategic thinking
Accommodation and meals are included. Travel to Oxford is not covered. Participants are expected to stay for the full duration and to dedicate their full attention to the programme.
“The programme has been incredibly insightful and inspiring with every element bringing forth new ways of thinking about leadership. This course will leave a lasting positive impact.”
Helen Thomas, Principal, Greater Brighton Metropolitan College
“The programme was excellent. I personally enjoyed being taken out of my comfort zone and challenged in ways that I could never have imagined.”
Chris Todd, Principal and Chief Executive, Derwentside College
Expression of Interest
Applications for the current cohort are now closed. If you are interested in attending a future cohort please express your interest in the form below.
Have a question?
To help you decide if the Preparing for CEO Programme is right for you, we’ve created a detailed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document covering everything from programme content and expectations to logistics and support.
Need more support
Contact the leadership team for more detailed support
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