The Birmingham Leadership Institute at the University of Birmingham has been delivering the innovative Systems Thinking and Leadership Practitioner programme for two-years. Designed to support social, environmental and placed-based change, it has drawn participants from the National Lottery Community Fund and VCSE organisations as well as the wider public and private sectors. 

The University of Birmingham is now actively seeking VCSE participants from across the city and the wider West Midlands for this transformative and cost free programme as part of its civic commitment. 

Designed for senior and middle leaders, project managers, and those preparing for leadership roles within the voluntary and community sector (VCS), the programme enables VCS practitioners to develop the skills, capabilities, and theoretical knowledge needed to make impactful, systemic change. It is particularly suited to organisations seeking to drive systemic change across Birmingham and beyond - whether tackling social inequality, improving community health outcomes, or addressing climate resilience at a local level.

The programme is offered as a Level 7 Apprenticeship and is fully funded via the apprenticeship levy. VCS organisations that do not qualify for the levy as employers are able to access the levy in other ways making the programme cost-free. The Government is currently reviewing the apprenticeship levy so this may be the last year that this and other Level 7 Apprenticeships can be funded in this way. All Apprenticeship students will also receive a Post Graduate Diploma from the University of Birmingham and can top-up to an MSc by submitting a Dissertation at no additional cost.

Current student Fiona Joseph, EDI Manager, National Lottery Community Fund reflects on why she chose this programme and how it has helped her in her role.

When I looked at the Systems Thinking and Leadership Practitioner Apprenticeship I thought – I’ve spent years trying to do this, I just didn’t know it was called systems thinking! I was attracted by the distinctive nature of the course which provides both the practical tools and techniques of systems thinking and helps to develop my leadership practice so I can put them into action. It’s been exciting to learn from people in other sectors and the opportunities to network are fantastic. I’m a Birmingham girl born and bred so it has been great to be able to study locally.

There’s an academic component of the course, but the nature of the Apprenticeship also means you are practicing and applying systems thinking in your workplace. The course has already had a huge impact on me and my confidence to tackle the big issues surrounding inequalities. It’s shaped and changed my approach to problem solving. I’ve now got a set of practical tools and methodologies that I’ve already been able to put into practice..

And the support for my personal and professional development has been a game changer. I am much more aware of how I see the world and my role in the system;I am more self aware and able to manage the ways in which I might previously have been tripping myself up. 

I’m always going to be attracted to complex societal problems, and I feel that I’ve got the tools and skills to lead on making transformational change. 

This innovative apprenticeship equips leaders in the VCS with critical skills in systems thinking and strategic leadership. These skills are increasingly vital as organisations in our sector face complex challenges and opportunities, including mission-led transformations championed by national and local government priorities.

Participants will learn how to diagnose systemic issues, design interventions, and implement solutions that deliver meaningful impact. The programme also focuses on cultivating the leadership and practical capabilities necessary for navigating today’s multifaceted social and environmental challenges.
Programme Highlights

• Real-World Relevance: A curriculum designed to address complex societal challenges, such as climate change, health inequalities, and social justice.
• High-Profile Support: Drawing students from  the NHS, National Lottery, and UN World Food Programme, this programme is already driving systemic change across sectors.
• Collaborative Community: Join a diverse network of socially responsible leaders, enabling cross-sector collaboration and innovative solutions tailored to Birmingham’s unique needs.

Funding Opportunity

This programme is fully fundable through your employer’s Apprenticeship Levy, making it an accessible pathway to strengthen leadership capabilities in the voluntary and community sector. Please note that funding opportunities may not remain indefinitely - act now to secure your place and develop the skills to make a lasting impact in our communities.

Key Dates

• Next Cohort Start Date: April 2025
• Application Deadline: 24th February 2025

For organisations and leaders committed to creating a better future for Birmingham’s communities and beyond, this programme offers a unique opportunity to learn, collaborate, and lead change at scale. To learn more about the programme visit da.edaid.com  or email [email protected].