We're currently recruiting for the 2011-2012 "Liberal Democrat Next Generation" programme. This is an excellent opportunity for younger and ambitious Lib Dem councillors to develop your leadership and political skills.
Next Generation is now in its sixth successful year. Uniquely, it is developed within party tradition, by party political experts, creating a political development opportunity for participants. Next Generation provides the support and continuous personal development that ensures councillors have the right skills to transform into the sort of leaders required to reinvigorate the local political scene.
'Next Gen' is designed for those who have already shown a proven commitment to the ideals of local government and have demonstrated flair or potential for leadership at a local level and have the capacity to develop politically. It offers privileged access to senior party members and the best of policymakers, an open door to model authorities and the most experienced of mentors and an understanding of communications skills presented by the best the party has to offer.
As well as offering the practical skills of leadership, this programme is also designed to raise individuals' profiles within the local and National Party.
This year long programme is delivered in partnership between the Local Government Liberal Democrat Group, the Leadership and Localism team and the ALDC.
Previous Lib Dem cohorts have visited authorities across the country as well as attending a dedicated training weekend at Warwick Business School, and 2 days in Westminster. Many have gone on to either lead their council, contribute high-quality policy ideas to the Party, or continue cementing an important network of politically motivated Lib Dems in local government.
The 2011-2012 programme will consist of:
- two '3 day' events (ie 2 nights away), including a study visit of Lib Dem-run councils, and a residential study weekend
- two '2 day' events (ie 1 night away), including a day in Westminster and a day at the Lib Dem Local Government Conference.
The programme is free to participants, and all travel, accommodation and food costs are paid.
How to apply:
We are limited to the number of people we can have on the course. For more information and to apply online please fill in the link here (and click on the Lib Dem button!)
The Localism website is suffering an intermittent fault - in which case please go straight to the online form below.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/libdemng2011
The deadline for the Lib Dem applications is Friday 19 August 2011 (with some flexibility for late applications). If you would like to chat informally about the course please contact Tim Pickstone at ALDC on 01422 843 785.
Picture above is the Next Gen 5 group meeting with Chris Huhne last November.
