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PPD Personal and Professional Development course timetable

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Fri 10 Nov 2023 – Tue 23 Jan

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November 2023

Thu 16
Springboard: A Women's Development Programme (1 of 4) Finished 09:30 - 15:30 Hughes Hall, Pavilion Room


Springboard is for women staff and graduate students, and those who identify as women, who want to take control, become more assertive, increase their confidence & build themselves a more positive attitude in both their work and home lives.

The programme gives you the time to reflect, share and most importantly, set achievable personal and professional goals for now and the future.

Key areas covered include communication skills, assertiveness, self confidence, improving your work/life balance and developing positive skills and attitude. If you want to progress and develop, then this programme is for you.

The programme comprises four days over a three-month period and a workbook to be completed between sessions.

Leadership Essentials (2 of 2) Finished 09:30 - 14:30 N/A - MS Teams


Leadership Essentials is a key programme suitable for those with responsibilities for the work, behaviour and development of others. The programme aims to help managers refresh and build their skills and experience in this area, as well as clarifying key responsibilities of manager and leader. It focuses on critical areas, such as giving and receiving feedback effectively and handling challenging conversations, using leadership styles and models to support individuals and teams. The programme incorporates tutor input; opportunities for discussion, case studies, reflection and sharing of good practice with others with similar responsibilities. It also includes curated e-learning resources to support managers with their ongoing learning and development.

Participants are required to attend both half day sessions.

Tue 21
Professional Services Career Development Programme Finished 09:30 - 13:00 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room

This highly interactive workshop will enable you to step back from the ‘day-to-day’ and focus on your career objectives, short and long term. You will have the opportunity to explore what development opportunities you could grasp and what networks might assist you. You will also have the opportunity to consider what’s holding you back and how you can overcome these barriers to fulfil your career aspirations. You will leave the workshop with a personal career plan in draft format, that you will be able to explore in greater depth.

This short webinar is a useful refresher about the overall purpose and outcomes of SRD (appraisal) and an opportunity to consider what you can do to help ensure an effective discussion as reviewee and/or reviewer. Whether you work in a research, teaching or professional service area, SRD (appraisal) provides the opportunity for individuals to engage in constructive discussion with supervisors, managers or academic/research colleagues about current and future work and personal and career development.

The webinar will have limited opportunity for discussion due to time, for further content, please view the online module Effective Staff Review and Development: Online Course and the LinkedIn pathway LinkedIn Learning: Staff Review and Development All Staff.

Senior Leader Level 7 Apprenticeship Webinar Finished 14:00 - 15:30 N/A - MS Teams

An information webinar providing information on the offers available through two of our approved training providers, Cranfield University and Anglia Ruskin University. Both University’s will present their individual offers of the Senior Leader Level 7 programme with the option of additional elements including a PG Dip or MBA.

The Senior Leader Apprenticeship (SLA) course offers an exciting opportunity to develop and hone your leadership skills, make a real impact in the workplace, and support your future career aspirations. The course is ideal if you are new to a leadership or senior management role and applicable to a wide range of settings. You will have the option to study either a Postgraduate Diploma or MBA in Management and Leadership while you work, and achieve Senior Leader status.

The purpose of the webinar will be to provide you with an overview of all programme options available to you, and will give you the opportunity to ask any questions, enabling you to make an informed decision on your future career development. Current participants on both programmes will be present to answer any questions.

The planned programme start date will be May 2024.

A link to the webinar will be sent with the joining instruction when your booking is confirmed.

Please also note that for those who cannot attend this session, the presentation and any other details will be sent out afterwards. **So please do still book a place if you are interested to hear more.**

Wed 22
Welcome to New Staff Finished 09:00 - 12:00 Magdalene College, Cripps Court, Auditorium


The University of Cambridge is committed to effective induction for all new members of staff. In addition to the welcome and induction you will receive in your institution, you are warmly invited to take part in the University’s two-stage induction.

The first stage comprises the University’s Induction Online programme. This web resource is a quick and easy way for you to learn all about what it is like to work here as well as understand your role and responsibilities. It provides key information to help you:

  • settle into your new role quickly
  • orientate yourself in your first few weeks at the University
  • integrate into the University
  • understand how the University works


The second stage is a Welcome to New Staff presentation event, hosted by Personal and Professional Development (PPD). The Welcome event aims to provide a broad introduction to all University staff, providing information about the University to enable you to get the most out of your time here. The event comprises:

  • a welcome and introduction to the University from a senior member of the University
  • a talk from a colleague about their career journey at the University
  • a presentation on the benefits of being part of the University of Cambridge
Thu 23
Induction for New Managers and Leaders at Cambridge Finished 09:30 - 12:00 N/A - MS Teams


This session will set the scene for those moving in to a role with professional responsibility for other members of staff at the University, supporting their work, behavior and development. As we all know from our personal and professional experience, leaders and managers play a critical role in ensuring a productive, motivating and inclusive working environment.

This interactive session will explore the responsibilities of a manager or leader at the University, introduce tools to support the performance of your team, and provide pointers to where to find important information and further development as needed.

It is aimed at staff across all areas, disciplines, staff groups and levels of responsibility, including staff who are:

  • new to managing one or more others
  • new to leading a service or research area
  • new to Cambridge, either as a new manager or with previous experience
Courageous Conversations Finished 14:00 - 15:30 N/A - online webinar


We all have challenging conversations from time to time that we dread. Wishing it would go away rarely works. Having a clear strategy can make all the difference. This workshop is designed to give you the skills and confidence to have a meaningful, productive conversation at work.

This 90 minute scenario-based training, incorporating forum theatre, aims to entertain and inform. You will be watching a live work based conversation and have the opportunity to give feedback and interact with the ‘characters’ to understand and develop a positive outcome. By the end of this webinar you will have a better understanding of how a difficult conversation can go wrong and how to put it right.

We will explore how the best intentions can sometimes go wrong. We will help you build a solid technique to get it right.

Mon 27
Leaders and Managers Network Meeting Finished 14:00 - 15:00 N/A - MS Teams


These monthly meetings are for managers and leaders across the University to meet informally and talk about the successes and challenges of this part of their role. The meetings are for all those who are professionally responsible for others in the workplace, formally and informally.

The meeting may include a short update about the Network or opportunities for leaders and managers. Following that is the chance for smaller groups of colleagues to speak about current priorities and plans, and to feedback suggestions for the development of the Network, supported by PPD.

Further information regarding the Leaders and Managers Network.

Tue 28
Introduction to Mentoring: for Mentors and Mentees Finished 09:30 - 12:30 N/A - MS Teams


Mentoring can be a really effective tool in helping people to develop their professional lives and careers, in both roles of mentor and mentee.

This interactive workshop is designed to give an overview and introduction to mentoring, informing participants about what mentoring is and giving them the opportunity to explore the key benefits for mentors and mentees. There will be the opportunity to learn some key skills needed to both mentor and be mentored effectively, and to become familiar with some simple models, tools and techniques to support the mentoring partnership to maximise its value and impact.

Wed 29
Leadership Essentials (1 of 2) Finished 09:30 - 14:30 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


Leadership Essentials is a key programme suitable for those with responsibilities for the work, behaviour and development of others. The programme aims to help managers refresh and build their skills and experience in this area, as well as clarifying key responsibilities of manager and leader. It focuses on critical areas, such as giving and receiving feedback effectively and handling challenging conversations, using leadership styles and models to support individuals and teams. The programme incorporates tutor input; opportunities for discussion, case studies, reflection and sharing of good practice with others with similar responsibilities. It also includes curated e-learning resources to support managers with their ongoing learning and development.

Participants are required to attend both half day sessions.

Thu 30

This workshop provides an opportunity for those recruiting to professional services roles to update and refresh their understanding of the recruitment and selection processes at the University of Cambridge. It includes an overview of the current recruitment and selection process and how to create the conditions where you can recruit the best candidate, avoiding common pitfalls, whilst ensuring practice is fair to all candidates at each stage.

NOTE If you are new to recruitment and selection, it is recommended that you attend the Recruitment and Selection Skills workshop.

December 2023

Thu 7
Administrator Development Programme (2 of 7) Finished 09:15 - 16:45 Hughes Hall, Pavilion Room


This development programme for generalist and specialist administrators draws on the expertise of senior figures in the University and provides up to date information on the various strands and issues of University strategy and governance. It includes development of some key skills and a project activity, and offers a valuable opportunity to network with administrators from the UAS and other departments and institutions.

Selection for this programme is via nomination by School Secretaries, Heads of Division or Heads of Non-School Institutions during the summer. Nominees will need to demonstrate the benefit of participating, both for themselves and their institution. Please speak to your line manager and/or appropriate nominator if you would like to be considered. Please see further information about key themes and speakers on the programme flyer.

Wed 13
Leadership Essentials (2 of 2) Finished 09:30 - 14:30 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


Leadership Essentials is a key programme suitable for those with responsibilities for the work, behaviour and development of others. The programme aims to help managers refresh and build their skills and experience in this area, as well as clarifying key responsibilities of manager and leader. It focuses on critical areas, such as giving and receiving feedback effectively and handling challenging conversations, using leadership styles and models to support individuals and teams. The programme incorporates tutor input; opportunities for discussion, case studies, reflection and sharing of good practice with others with similar responsibilities. It also includes curated e-learning resources to support managers with their ongoing learning and development.

Participants are required to attend both half day sessions.


This workshop provides an opportunity for academic staff to understand the recruitment and selection process and how to create the conditions where you can recruit the best candidate and avoid common pitfalls. It includes an overview of the recruitment and selection process and identifies the key principles to ensure practice is fair to all candidates at each stage.

The course is primarily aimed at academic staff involved in making selection decisions for academic roles and those with responsibility for coordinating academic recruitment procedures.

Thu 14
Springboard: A Women's Development Programme (2 of 4) Finished 09:30 - 15:30 Hughes Hall, Pavilion Room


Springboard is for women staff and graduate students, and those who identify as women, who want to take control, become more assertive, increase their confidence & build themselves a more positive attitude in both their work and home lives.

The programme gives you the time to reflect, share and most importantly, set achievable personal and professional goals for now and the future.

Key areas covered include communication skills, assertiveness, self confidence, improving your work/life balance and developing positive skills and attitude. If you want to progress and develop, then this programme is for you.

The programme comprises four days over a three-month period and a workbook to be completed between sessions.

January 2024

Thu 11
Leadership Essentials (1 of 2) Finished 09:30 - 14:30 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


Leadership Essentials is a key programme suitable for those with responsibilities for the work, behaviour and development of others. The programme aims to help managers refresh and build their skills and experience in this area, as well as clarifying key responsibilities of manager and leader. It focuses on critical areas, such as giving and receiving feedback effectively and handling challenging conversations, using leadership styles and models to support individuals and teams. The programme incorporates tutor input; opportunities for discussion, case studies, reflection and sharing of good practice with others with similar responsibilities. It also includes curated e-learning resources to support managers with their ongoing learning and development.

Participants are required to attend both half day sessions.

Leaders and Managers Network Meeting Finished 09:30 - 10:30 N/A - MS Teams


These monthly meetings are for managers and leaders across the University to meet informally and talk about the successes and challenges of this part of their role. The meetings are for all those who are professionally responsible for others in the workplace, formally and informally.

The meeting may include a short update about the Network or opportunities for leaders and managers. Following that is the chance for smaller groups of colleagues to speak about current priorities and plans, and to feedback suggestions for the development of the Network, supported by PPD.

Further information regarding the Leaders and Managers Network.

Tue 16
Coaching Skills for Managers Finished 09:30 - 12:30 N/A - MS Teams


Coaching is an essential tool for managers and other professionals to use to help individuals to unlock their full potential and enhance their performance. You will be introduced to the technique of coaching and focus on the development of a range of skills that may be used to coach others effectively. This course is highly participative and will include the opportunity to practice your coaching skills.

Screening Policy (Briefing) new POSTPONED 10:00 - 12:00 N/A - MS Teams

The University will shortly be re-launching the Screening Policy. This briefing session will provide staff with an overview of the policy, how it will be implemented and the impact this will have on recruitment.

Please note that this session will be recorded. There will be an opportunity to discuss points and ask questions once the recording has ended.

Wed 17
Welcome to New Staff Finished 09:00 - 12:00 Magdalene College, Cripps Court, Auditorium


The University of Cambridge is committed to effective induction for all new members of staff. In addition to the welcome and induction you will receive in your institution, you are warmly invited to take part in the University’s two-stage induction.

The first stage comprises the University’s Induction Online programme. This web resource is a quick and easy way for you to learn all about what it is like to work here as well as understand your role and responsibilities. It provides key information to help you:

  • settle into your new role quickly
  • orientate yourself in your first few weeks at the University
  • integrate into the University
  • understand how the University works


The second stage is a Welcome to New Staff presentation event, hosted by Personal and Professional Development (PPD). The Welcome event aims to provide a broad introduction to all University staff, providing information about the University to enable you to get the most out of your time here. The event comprises:

  • a welcome and introduction to the University from a senior member of the University
  • a talk from a colleague about their career journey at the University
  • a presentation on the benefits of being part of the University of Cambridge
Thu 18
Administrator Development Programme (3 of 7) Finished 09:15 - 16:45 Hughes Hall, Pavilion Room


This development programme for generalist and specialist administrators draws on the expertise of senior figures in the University and provides up to date information on the various strands and issues of University strategy and governance. It includes development of some key skills and a project activity, and offers a valuable opportunity to network with administrators from the UAS and other departments and institutions.

Selection for this programme is via nomination by School Secretaries, Heads of Division or Heads of Non-School Institutions during the summer. Nominees will need to demonstrate the benefit of participating, both for themselves and their institution. Please speak to your line manager and/or appropriate nominator if you would like to be considered. Please see further information about key themes and speakers on the programme flyer.

This session will provide staff with an overview of the proposed changes to Researcher reward and progression. There will be an opportunity to discuss points and ask questions.

Fri 19
Springboard: A Women's Development Programme (3 of 4) Finished 09:30 - 15:30 Hughes Hall, Pavilion Room


Springboard is for women staff and graduate students, and those who identify as women, who want to take control, become more assertive, increase their confidence & build themselves a more positive attitude in both their work and home lives.

The programme gives you the time to reflect, share and most importantly, set achievable personal and professional goals for now and the future.

Key areas covered include communication skills, assertiveness, self confidence, improving your work/life balance and developing positive skills and attitude. If you want to progress and develop, then this programme is for you.

The programme comprises four days over a three-month period and a workbook to be completed between sessions.

Tue 23
Screening Policy (Briefing) new Finished 10:00 - 12:00 N/A - MS Teams

The University will shortly be re-launching the Screening Policy. This briefing session will provide staff with an overview of the policy, how it will be implemented and the impact this will have on recruitment.

Please note that this session will be recorded. There will be an opportunity to discuss points and ask questions once the recording has ended.