Evaluation of the Practice Leadership Development Programme

This document describes an evaluation of the Practice Leader Development Programme (PLDP), which is designed to improve leadership in children's social care. The PLDP offers a range of activities including educational residentials, seminars, coaching, job shadowing, and opportunities to influence policy, with a focus on developing leadership behaviors, anti-racism, and diversity. The evaluation used a mixed-method approach, incorporating feedback forms, interviews, thematic analysis, and career progression tracking, guided by Kirkpatrick's model. Results show that the PLDP has increased participant confidence, leadership skills, and provided a broader understanding of local authority responsibilities. Participants particularly valued peer support, the chance to shape policy, and the programme's emphasis on practical application. The PLDP has also led to improved Ofsted ratings and increased BAME participation, although direct attribution to the program is complex. Recommendations include regular assessments, clearer communication, and the introduction of coaching contracts. The PLDP is seen as successful in fostering authentic, collaborative leadership and is recommended for continuation, with potential broader impacts on social work politics and policies. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Department for Education (DfE)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Process evaluation
• Process methods: Other
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: July 2021

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes