GCS Advance: Expert
The GCS Advance Expert programme is aimed at Grade 7s and senior managers. It consists of 2 elements:
A five day intensive SkillsCamp
SkillsCamp will introduce participants to innovative ways of working, with a specific focus on AI and how it can support communications professionals in their work. Places on the SkillsCamp are limited to 30 per camp. There will be 4 SkillsCamps running in 2024 in locations around the UK.
A two day Learning Festival
Our Learning Festival will provide participants with access to in-depth learning in the full range of GCS communications disciplines facilitated by experts in these areas. It is an annual event which will be hosted in London in September 2024.
For participants to be certified as a “GCS Expert” they must complete both elements of the Expert programme within one calendar year.
Cost
The cost for participation in the full Expert Programme is £1500.
The cost includes:
- Attendance at a five day SkillsCamp, including lunch, tea and coffee
- Attendance at the two day Learning Festival, including lunch, tea and coffee
- Attendance at an evening reception on the first day of the Learning Festival
The cost does not include:
- Travel
- Accommodation
While there is no expectation to stay overnight, should you wish to do so this needs to be paid through your Department’s T&S process.
Why participate in the GCS Advance Expert programme?
Skills Development
GCS Advance Expert allows you to develop a deep understanding of individual disciplines through interactive, face-to-face learning experiences. You will also have the chance to upskill in the use of AI and innovative technologies to ensure you are equipped for the future.
Career Progression
GCS Advance is underpinned by the GCS career framework. Individuals looking to progress their career in government communications will be expected to have participated in the GCS Advance programme, in some capacity, to show their commitment to their continuous Learning and Development.
Networking
GCS Advance Expert provides you with an opportunity to meet and network with like-minded individuals. You will work collaboratively to explore and dissect new concepts, tools and frameworks together, whilst learning from one another’s experiences.
Thought Leaders
You will hear from thought leaders in both communications and innovation. You will have the chance to interact with speakers and reflect on the future of the communications profession.
Eligibility
GCS Advance is available for communications professionals in government departments, ALBs (including embedded communicators) and devolved administrations.
The Expert programme is aimed at Grade 7s and senior managers.
2024/25 dates and locations
In keeping with the location strategy we are committed to delivering the GCS Advance programme across locations in the UK. In 2024/25 GCS Advance Expert SkillCamps will take place in London, Leeds, and Edinburgh. The Learning Festival will take place at Imperial College, London. In subsequent years we intend to increase the range of locations available to participants.
Frequently asked questions
Click on the questions below to reveal the answers.
The Pilot will last 1 year and include 4 SkillsCamps and 1 Learning Festival.
The Expert programme will consist of a 5 day SkillsCamp and a 2 day Learning Festival. Therefore, participation is a 7 day commitment.
Yes. Participation in the Expert programme costs £1500 per person.
Yes. You will need both your line manager and budget mangers approval in order to register to participate.
Yes. Expert is a fully face-to-face programme therefore you will be expected to attend all 7 days in person.
You will get a certificate to demonstrate the learning that you have completed.
You will need to complete both elements of the programme to get a certificate of completion for the Expert Programme.
No, though we recommend it as it will ensure you have undertaken the appropriate skills training to help you prepare for the next level.
No.
There are 120 spaces on the pilot (30 per SkillsCamp). We will also be opening up an additional 280 spaces at the Learning Festival, however individuals who only partake in the Learning Festival will not receive a certificate of completion for the Expert Programme.
Acceptance onto the Expert programme is on a first come first serve basis.
If you don’t make it onto the programme in 2024 don’t worry. We will be releasing more dates and locations later in the year so keep an eye on the GCS Newsletter!
Expert is aimed at G7 or senior management equivalent. If you would like to participate but are unsure if you fall into this category please speak to your line manager.
In 2024 there will be 4 SkillsCamps spread across 3 locations, London, Leeds, and Edinburgh. We intend to offer more dates and increase the range of locations following the conclusion of the pilot.
Completion of the Expert programme equates to 30 CPD points.