Leadership Fundamentals Programme
Practical leadership skills for SMEs.
Funded by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA), the Leadership Fundamentals Programme helps small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) build essential leadership skills to strengthen their teams and support sustainable growth.
Designed specifically for new leaders in SMEs, this 10-week programme focuses on practical strategies to enhance resilience, foster innovation and drive performance.
Who is it for?
This programme is tailored for new leaders in SMEs. It equips participants with the tools to lead effectively, inspire teams and create a culture of inclusivity and innovation, aligning with the West of England Employment and Skills Plan.
You will learn:
- Deep self-reflection on leadership style and impact
- Emotional intelligence, team communication and coaching techniques
- Performance management, inclusivity, and conflict resolution
- Customer-focused leadership to drive business success
- Creating an inclusive culture that fosters creativity and innovation.
Programme highlights
- 10 week immersive training programme
- Blended learning approach: in-person workshops, online sessions and self-guided activities
- Cohort-based format to encourage peer support and accountability
- Access to an online platform with learning materials and resources
- Networking opportunities with industry experts and real-world case studies
- Level 3 award in Leadership and Management, accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM)
Benefits of the Leadership Skills Fundamentals programme
For learners:
- Develop a unique leadership style to strengthen team cohesion
- Build confidence in managing performance and coaching techniques
- Enhance your skills in conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence
- Learn tools to foster an inclusive and high-performing team
- Access a network of peers for support and continued growth
- Earn a recognised professional qualification from the ILM
For organisations:
- Strengthen your team’s leadership to drive innovation and growth
- Boost productivity and resilience through improved team management
- Enhance employee retention by fostering an engaging work environment
- Drive long-term growth with customer-focused and sustainable leadership practices
- Gain access to industry networks and resources to address emerging challenges
Register now
The following course dates for 2025 are available to book — it only takes a few minutes. Once you have submitted your expression of interest, we'll contact you to book your application call within two working days.
Bristol 3 March 2025
The programme consists of nine online webinars with four in-person sessions.
Register your interestBristol 21 April 2025
The programme consists of nine online webinars with four in-person sessions.
Register your interestBath 26 May 2025
Join our Leadership Fundamentals Programme in Bath. The programme consists of nine online webinars with four in-person sessions.
Register your interestEligibility
To qualify for this funded programme, organisations must:
- be an SME (including Co-operatives, CICs or Charitable Companies) based in Bristol, South Gloucestershire or Bath and North-East Somerset
- have at least one year of submitted accounts and a turnover of at least £100,000
- employ a minimum of three staff members
- demonstrate clear potential for growth in turnover and/or employees.
Fees and further information
- Organisations are required to contribute £200 towards the programme (charitable companies and CICs: £100).
- Only one training place per organisation is allowed.
- Eligibility evidence is mandatory for all enrolled learners.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, contact us to discuss your options — we may have other suitable programmes.
Contact us
For more information, email the Workforce Skills team at workforceskills@uwe.ac.uk or call +44 (0)117 32 81174.