francis c scott trust
francis scott trust

SPECIAL PROGRAMMES

Aspiring Leaders Programme

The Aspiring Leaders Programme began in 2011 when a group of local community leaders gathered to discuss with Francis Scott Trustees their thoughts and aspirations for the future of the voluntary sector locally.

They identified the changing demands on leaders as a result of developments in funding and the landscape of the sector.

Of critical importance was the need for local, younger people with great potential and an existing commitment to their communities, but poor access to opportunities, to access high quality leadership and enterprise training to equip them with the skills and knowledge that the future of the sector required.

A new partnership lead by the Brathay Trust and including the University of Cumbria and Common Purpose was created to deliver the programme.

Francis Scott Trust ALPS Brathay
The key objectives of the programme were, and remain, as follows:
  1. To uncover, nurture and launch talented young adults from within communities in Cumbria and Lancaster District to better serve those communities’ needs.
  2. In doing so, to provide role models for others to aspire, attain and contribute.
  3. To enhance local charity leadership, incorporating an enterprising and innovative mindset.
  4. To create a self-supporting network of community leadership across our beneficial area.
The core elements of the programme are:
  • A Degree (BSc Hons) in Social Enterprise Leadership
  • Focussed leadership training
  • Mentoring
  • Work placements and experience
  • Visits to inspirational charities and social enterprises
Francis Scott Trust ALPS Brathay
Francis Scott Trust ALPS Brathay

Three cohorts have completed the three-year programme and are continuing their professional careers, both locally and further afield - and within and outside of the sector.

The current cohort of the Aspiring Leaders Programme (ALP4) began their journey on Zoom in January 2021, having completed a robust recruitment process during the Autumn of 2020. Twelve participants are on track to complete the programme at the end of this year.

To find out more about the Aspiring Leaders Programme, visit the Brathay Trust website.