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Academy

Welcome to the home of learning and development for government communication professionals

Advance Practitioner

Registrations for the Spring 2025 cohort are now open

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What is Advance?

Members of the government communications profession have exclusive access to our flagship development programme, Advance. 

The programme consists of three levels, Practitioner, Expert and Leader, and has been uniquely designed for government communicators, supporting their professional development at every stage of their career.

Practitioner is a six-month online programme providing foundation-level learning for members new to the profession and those looking to refresh their knowledge and skills. Find out more about Practitioner.

Expert is specifically aimed at Grade 7 members and senior managers, and gives a deeper understanding of the profession. Learners are required to attend a five-day SkillsCamp and two-day Learning Festival.

Leader is a 15-month blended programme for Grade 6 members and deputy directors, focusing on leadership in government communications. Learners will earn a Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication Leadership after completing the programme.

Why choose Advance?

Advance is expertly curated to equip government communicators with the skills they’ll need to do their jobs, from entry to senior level. 

It is an essential part of career development in the government communications profession. Members looking to progress their careers must demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and development by participating in the programme. 

Skill-up for the future 

Advance helps our members stay ahead in the fast-moving world of communications. It provides cutting-edge training in everything our members need to succeed – from the latest digital skills to using artificial intelligence. 

Tailor-made and flexible learning

Advance is a bespoke programme, with user-focused training specifically tailored to our members needs. 

With Practitioner, members can learn at their own pace and fit training around their busy schedules. 

Certification

On successful completion of Practitioner participants will achieve 30 Continuous Professional Development points and receive a professionally-recognised certification.

Leader provides successful participants with a Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication Leadership. There is also the option to continue to an MSc. 

Are you eligible? 

Advance is only available for members of the government communications profession, including those from Arm’s-Length Bodies and devolved administrations.

To become a member, and start your Advance journey, you need to: