Middle Leadership For Success

The team at FE Associates have trained more leaders than any other organisation in the sector. Our middle leadership programmes consistently achieve excellent satisfaction ratings, with many graduates securing promotion as a result of their participation.

Delivered through a hybrid model of in-person and online workshops, the Middle Leadership for Success programme blends leadership insight with technical management expertise to build confidence and effectiveness in middle leadership roles.

With a focus on strategy, planning, people and excellence, the programme develops capacity and competence through collaborative learning and professional networking.

This programme has been designed for established and aspiring middle leaders working in the Further Education and Skills sector. Delegates will typically hold cross-college or departmental responsibilities, such as managing teams, leading curriculum areas, or driving quality and performance. Delegates may already have some leadership experience and seek to deepen their strategic thinking, build confidence, and enhance their impact. Delegates will be supported by their organisation to attend the programme as part of their ongoing leadership development.

• Three In-Person Modules
  A series of interactive, face-to-face sessions focused on key leadership, communication, and strategic thinking themes—designed to build confidence and capability through real-world discussion and practical application.

• One Online Workshop
  An engaging online session that complements the face-to-face modules by deepening understanding of key leadership concepts and enabling flexible learning.

• Self-Development Project
  A personalised work-based initiative that enables participants to apply their learning, reflect on their practice, and drive meaningful impact in their current role or organisation.

• Psychometric Profiling
  In-depth individual analysis using a leading psychometric tool to support self-awareness, personal growth, and a deeper understanding of working styles and team dynamics.

• Location: Novotel Birmingham Centre
• Price: £495.00 (VAT included) per delegate
• Programme Dates:
•     Module One (In-person): Thinking Forward
      Module Two (In-person): Planning Forward
      Module Three (Online): Leading Performance
      Module Four (In-person): Driving Excellence

Paul Wakeling

Paul has over twenty years of experience as a senior leader, including as Principal/CEO of a successful college. He now works across sectors supporting organisational improvement. Paul attended ‘Chaos, Conflict and Crisis at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and, in return, embedded ideas of adaptive leadership into his practice. He has worked as an Associate for Warwick Business School, contributing to programmes for the Cabinet Office. He has published his ideas on leadership and learning in Wakeling, P. & Mackay, F. Leading & Learning in Challenging Circumstances in Challenging Professional Learning, ed. Crowley, S. Oxon. Routledge, 2014.’

Graham Razey OBE

A respected leader in the further education sector and former Chief Executive Officer of East Kent Colleges Group (EKC). Since becoming Principal of Thanet College in 2010, he has led its transformation into EKC Group—now one of the country’s leading college groups. Under his leadership, EKC achieved Ofsted “Outstanding” ratings across all campuses. He has served on the Department for Education’s Principals’ Reference Group and was named OBE in 2020 for services to education.

Dan Beale

An experienced leadership and management consultant in the further education sector. Dan has worked extensively supporting colleges and training providers with leadership development, change management, and organisational culture. Dan’s practical approach is informed by his background in educational leadership and coaching. He regularly delivers tailored workshops and programmes to help leaders build confidence and lead authentically in complex environments.

Janet Gardner

Janet Gardner is an experienced and respected leader in the further education sector. She currently serves as Principal and CEO of Waltham Forest College. With a strong background in curriculum development, quality improvement, and college leadership, Janet has dedicated her career to enhancing educational outcomes and driving organisational excellence. She has played a key role in supporting colleges in innovating and improving teaching standards through collaborative leadership and practical strategies.

Janet is known for her hands-on approach to leadership development and has delivered numerous workshops and consultancy projects focused on quality enhancement and leadership skills within further education. Her commitment to fostering inclusive, high-quality learning environments has made her a valued voice in sector-wide initiatives. Janet’s expertise encompasses curriculum design, leadership coaching, and strategic improvement, positioning her as a significant contributor to the advancement of further education sector.

To make a booking by credit card please contact Jack.Moriarty@fea.co.uk

To arrange a booking and pay by invoice, please email Jack.Moriarty@fea.co.uk with the following information:

Name of Programme:

Name of Organisation:

Name of Delegate(s):

Delegate Job Title(s):

Delegate Email(s):

Delegate(s) Disability or Access Requirements (If applicable):

Name of Person Making the Booking:

Name and Address for invoicing:

PO Number if required:

Please note invoices must be paid prior to programme commencement.