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PPD Personal and Professional Development course timetable

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Wed 29 Jun 2022 – Mon 7 Nov 2022

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June 2022

Wed 29

To flourish, higher education institutions need to ensure that educational and work environments are high functioning, diverse, tolerant and respectful. The occurrence of bullying, harassment or sexual misconduct within an institution, even at a low-level, not only harms individuals, it can undermine the entire ethos and values of the institution. In addition to presenting reputational and legal risks, it can damage relationships and create low-morale, leading to under-performance and a reduction in time spent on the principle work of the institution, whether research-related or otherwise.

In line with the Dignity at Work policy, Taking the Lead focuses on the practical measures, knowledge and skills needed by senior leaders to create an environment free of bullying, harassment and sexual misconduct. It provides techniques to build confidence to address often difficult and complex situations at the earliest stage possible.

The session will also include time to consider a range of case studies faced by heads of institutions, and potential options for resolving with the best possible outcomes for all.

Technician Network Tour Finished 10:00 - 12:30 Department of Engineering, LR1, Inglis Building

Hosted at the Department of Engineering, come along for a tour, do some networking or to hear how the University is engaging technical staff via the Technician Commitment.

There will be three short talks;

  • John Nicolson, Technician Commitment Coordinator introducing the Technician Commitment and some of the projects being undertaken around the University as well as some training options open directly to technical staff
  • Freya Villis, Senior Programme Coordinator, OurCambridge introducing career development tools and resources and how technical staff can be involved
  • Colin Long, Apprenticeships Manager, introducing apprenticeships within the University for existing staff

There will be tours of the workshops and of the Dyson Centre for Engineering Design, including featuring roles of technical staff, as well as an opportunity to ask questions and network.

Thu 30
Welcome to New Staff Finished 09:00 - 12:00 N/A - PPD Zoom (Internal Ref:App)


The University of Cambridge is committed to effective induction for all new members of staff. In addition to the welcome and induction you will receive in your institution, you are warmly invited to take part in the University’s two-stage induction.

The first stage comprises the University’s Induction Online programme. This web resource is a quick and easy way for you to learn all about what it is like to work here as well as understand your role and responsibilities. It provides key information to help you:

  • settle into your new role quickly
  • orientate yourself in your first few weeks at the University
  • integrate into the University
  • understand how the University works


The second stage is a Welcome to New Staff presentation event, hosted by Personal and Professional Development (PPD). The Welcome event aims to provide a broad introduction to all University staff, providing information about the University to enable you to get the most out of your time here. This event will be an online webinar. The event comprises:

  • A welcome and introduction to the University from a senior member of the University
  • A presentation providing an update on the University’s response to supporting staff during this pandemic, working from home, returning or continuing to work at the University
  • A presentation on the benefits of being part of the University of Cambridge
Departmental: IRC/SRI Development Sessions new Finished 13:00 - 16:30 The Pitt Building, Darwin Room


This inaugural development event is for both academic related and academic staff working in SRI’s / IRC’s at the University of Cambridge.

The overall objective is to harness the full potential of SRI’s and IRCs, through:

  • academic and academic-related staff coming together, networking and (re)connecting together more as a community,
  • consideration of potentially shared challenges
  • sharing of knowledge, templates and pooling good practice (internal and external to Cambridge)
  • exploring practical ways to navigate complex interdisciplinary University structures
  • the development of organisational culture in individual interdisciplinary organisations that enable them to operate as productively as possible
  • identification of shared training needs + identification of ‘knowledge brokers’

July 2022

Tue 5

This session is an opportunity for you to ask questions and to find out more about the development opportunities that Cambridge is offering you – for both the Team Leader or Supervisor Level 3 and the Leadership and Management Level 5.

We are looking to explore what interest there is at this current time in both apprenticeships and hope that there will be sufficient interest to establish University-wide cohorts. By establishing University-wide cohorts, we are looking to encourage more departments to use apprenticeships as a way to provide focused professional development for staff. Participants will have the advantage of a peer group to work through the programme with Cambridge University Press and Assessment who are potentially interested in joining in with this.

Edmund Harper of Corndel, our approved training provider for these programmes will present and be available to answer any questions or concerns that you may have before submitting an expression of interest.

Programme details of each apprenticeship can be found via the links below:

Team Leader or Supervisor Level 3

Leadership and Management Level 5 (Operations or Departmental Manager)

There is a minimum of 18-20 people required for each programme, for a cohort to run. Depending on the level of interest shown, it is intended that these apprenticeship cohorts will start in September 2022. However you will also have the opportunity to join an open (public) cohort if we are unable to reach sufficient numbers for a closed cohort. Entry to these cohorts will be by application and is open to all University employees who meet the eligibility criteria.

A link to the session will be sent with the joining instructions when your booking is confirmed.

Further information from the provider, Corndel.

Apprenticeship guidance.

Sign up to the Apprenticeships Mailing List.

Wed 6
Develop your Career: Interview Techniques Finished 09:30 - 13:30 N/A - PPD Zoom (Internal Ref:ATL)


This course prepares you to showcase with confidence your skills, experience and potential in a job interview that takes place either virtually or in-person. You will learn how to prepare for interview, anticipate likely questions and plan how to answer them. You will learn techniques for handling nerves and be able to project yourself positively on screen and in-person.

You will also be able to pre-empt and deal with common technical challenges that can occur in an online interview.

The course is highly participative, providing an opportunity to share experiences with others, as well as time to practise your skills.

Leaders and Managers Network Meeting new Finished 10:30 - 11:30 N/A - MS Teams


These monthly meetings are for managers and leaders across the University to meet informally and talk about the successes and challenges of this part of their role. The meetings are for all those who are professionally responsible for others in the workplace, formally and informally.

The meeting may include a short update about the Network or opportunities for leaders and managers. Following that is the chance for smaller groups of colleagues to speak about current priorities and plans, and to feedback suggestions for the development of the Network, supported by PPD.

Further information regarding the Learning and Development Network.

Tue 12

This session is an opportunity for you to ask questions and to find out more about the development opportunities that Cambridge is offering you – for both the Team Leader or Supervisor Level 3 and the Leadership and Management Level 5.

We are looking to explore what interest there is at this current time in both apprenticeships and hope that there will be sufficient interest to establish University-wide cohorts. By establishing University-wide cohorts, we are looking to encourage more departments to use apprenticeships as a way to provide focused professional development for staff. Participants will have the advantage of a peer group to work through the programme with Cambridge University Press and Assessment who are potentially interested in joining in with this.

Edmund Harper of Corndel, our approved training provider for these programmes will present and be available to answer any questions or concerns that you may have before submitting an expression of interest.

Programme details of each apprenticeship can be found via the links below:

Team Leader or Supervisor Level 3

Leadership and Management Level 5 (Operations or Departmental Manager)

There is a minimum of 18-20 people required for each programme, for a cohort to run. Depending on the level of interest shown, it is intended that these apprenticeship cohorts will start in September 2022. However you will also have the opportunity to join an open (public) cohort if we are unable to reach sufficient numbers for a closed cohort. Entry to these cohorts will be by application and is open to all University employees who meet the eligibility criteria.

A link to the session will be sent with the joining instructions when your booking is confirmed.

Further information from the provider, Corndel.

Apprenticeship guidance.

Sign up to the Apprenticeships Mailing List.

Wed 27
Managing in a Hybrid Environment – What's Changed new Finished 11:00 - 12:30 N/A - MS Teams


This session is for leaders and managers to consider this part of their role in the context of working in a hybrid environment.

Since March 2020, people managers have continued to support individuals and teams to work together to ensure that key tasks have been achieved whether onsite and offsite. It's been a huge challenge at times – working out how to balance the work whilst maintaining safety, health and wellbeing. The learning has also been huge and this session aims to highlight how areas of practice (that have always been important for managers) have been and are still impacted by current ways of working. Maintaining a sense of shared identity and purpose, as well as ensuring equal access to information, relationships and opportunity, have all become new priorities. We will look at the challenges and opportunities given by working in a hybrid environment, and share ideas and techniques for good practice.

The session will be a presentation followed by an opportunity for discussion, questions and comment.

Thu 28
Departmental: IRC/SRI Development Sessions new Finished 09:30 - 13:00 The Pitt Building, Darwin Room


This inaugural development event is for both academic related and academic staff working in SRI’s / IRC’s at the University of Cambridge.

The overall objective is to harness the full potential of SRI’s and IRCs, through:

  • academic and academic-related staff coming together, networking and (re)connecting together more as a community,
  • consideration of potentially shared challenges
  • sharing of knowledge, templates and pooling good practice (internal and external to Cambridge)
  • exploring practical ways to navigate complex interdisciplinary University structures
  • the development of organisational culture in individual interdisciplinary organisations that enable them to operate as productively as possible
  • identification of shared training needs + identification of ‘knowledge brokers’

August 2022

Tue 9
Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship Webinar Finished 12:00 - 12:45 N/A - MS Teams

A webinar providing information on the level 4 Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship (duration 13 months) presented by Glen Suttie of Provek, who are Project Management Training specialists and will deliver this apprenticeship.

Provek are now able to offer a schedule of their open cohorts which will enable you to select your preferred programme start date to hopefully suit your individual contractual position.

Aimed at developing the skills required to run successful projects. This programme consists of 6 modules, each of which have a 1x day workshop training included. You will also sit the Association for Project Management (APM) Project Management Qualification (PMQ) exam and will be externally assessed to achieve the Level 4 Associate Project Manager apprenticeship standard.

The purpose of the webinar will be to provide you with an overview of the programme, and give you the opportunity to ask any questions.

A link to the webinar will be sent with the joining instruction when your booking is confirmed.

Sign up to the Apprenticeships Mailing List.

September 2022

Tue 6
Leaders and Managers Network Meeting Finished 11:00 - 12:00 N/A - MS Teams


These monthly meetings are for managers and leaders across the University to meet informally and talk about the successes and challenges of this part of their role. The meetings are for all those who are professionally responsible for others in the workplace, formally and informally.

The meeting may include a short update about the Network or opportunities for leaders and managers. Following that is the chance for smaller groups of colleagues to speak about current priorities and plans, and to feedback suggestions for the development of the Network, supported by PPD.

Further information regarding the Leaders and Managers Network.

Wed 7
Apprenticeship Network Meeting CANCELLED 12:00 - 13:00 N/A - MS Teams

A network meeting for staff involved with overseeing apprentices at the University, providing the opportunity to obtain updates, share experiences and seek advice.

Sign up to the Apprenticeships Mailing List.

Tue 20
Technical Managers Network CANCELLED 14:00 - 15:00 N/A - MS Teams


This series of meetings are for technical managers and leaders across the University to meet informally and talk about the successes and challenges of this part of their role.

The meetings are for all those who are professionally responsible for others in the workplace, formally and informally. The meeting may include a short update about the Network or opportunities for leaders and managers. Following that is the chance for smaller groups of colleagues to speak about current priorities and plans, and to feedback suggestions for the development of the Network, supported by PPD.

October 2022

Wed 5
Leaders and Managers Network Meeting Finished 11:00 - 12:00 N/A - MS Teams


These monthly meetings are for managers and leaders across the University to meet informally and talk about the successes and challenges of this part of their role. The meetings are for all those who are professionally responsible for others in the workplace, formally and informally.

The meeting may include a short update about the Network or opportunities for leaders and managers. Following that is the chance for smaller groups of colleagues to speak about current priorities and plans, and to feedback suggestions for the development of the Network, supported by PPD.

Further information regarding the Leaders and Managers Network.

Tue 11
Developing Talent in your Team CANCELLED 09:30 - 12:30 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


Managing and developing talent in your team is a key skill for any manager in order to create an environment for their team to perform to the best of their ability, both individually and as a group.

From adopting a strategic approach to developing talent in order to deliver objectives, to understanding key strategies for developing your team at each stage of the employee lifecycle, this interactive and participative workshop offers you the opportunity to consider how to develop strength in your team, enhance motivation and wellbeing as well as share your experiences with others.

Wed 12
Recruitment and Selection Skills Finished 09:30 - 16:00 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


Recommended for those responsible for the recruitment and selection of staff, who are interested in developing further skills in this area. This course prepares you to effectively carry out the recruitment and selection process taking you through the stages of producing a person specification, short listing effectively against selection criteria, designing questions, structuring and conducting interviews, and making the final decision. University policies and procedures will also be covered.

If you are looking to update and refresh your understanding of the recruitment and selection processes at the University of Cambridge, it is recommended that you attend the 1/2 day workshop: Recruitment Essentials: Appointing the Right Candidate (Professional Services Appointments).

Thu 13
Administrator Development Programme: Briefing Session Finished 11:00 - 12:30 Hughes Hall, Peter Richards Room


This briefing session will provide more information about the Administrator Development Programme and is for staff with a confirmed place on this year's programme.

Further information is available on the programme course description page.

Dealing with Challenge and Conflict in the Workplace (for Managers) new Finished 11:30 - 12:30 N/A - PPD Zoom (Internal Ref:Standard)


Managing conflict and challenging situations in the workplace can be difficult, time consuming and can potentially have a negative impact on you and your team. This course will help you to understand some of the reasons why these situations arise, and identify strategies for managing these situations effectively.

Digital Apprenticeships Webinar new Finished 14:00 - 15:00 N/A - MS Teams

An information webinar providing information on various Digital Apprenticeships available through Firebrand Training, one of our approved training providers. This webinar will provide information on several Digital Apprenticeships including;

  • Data Analyst Level 4
  • Information Communication Technician Level 3
  • Software Tester Level 4

The purpose of the webinar will be to provide you with an overview of Digital programmes available, and will give you the opportunity to ask any questions.

A link to the webinar will be sent with the joining instruction when your booking is confirmed.

Tue 18
Induction for New Managers and Leaders at Cambridge new Finished 09:30 - 11:30 N/A - MS Teams


This short session will set the scene for those moving in to a role with professional responsibility for other members of staff at the University, supporting their work, behaviour and development. As we all know from our personal and professional experience, leaders and managers play a critical role in ensuring a productive, motivating and respectful working environment. The interactive session will explore what it means to be a good manager of others and provide pointers to where to find important information and further development as needed.

It is aimed at staff across all areas, disciplines, staff groups and levels of responsibility, including staff who are:

  • new to managing one or more others
  • new to leading a service or research area
  • new to Cambridge, either as a new manager or with previous experience
Associate Project Manager Level 4 Apprenticeships Webinar new Finished 12:00 - 12:45 N/A - MS Teams

A webinar providing information on the level 4 Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship (duration 13 months) presented by Glen Suttie of Provek, who are Project Management Training specialists and will deliver this apprenticeship.

Provek are now able to offer a schedule of their open cohorts which will enable you to select your preferred programme start date to hopefully suit your individual contractual position.

Aimed at developing the skills required to run successful projects. This programme consists of 6 modules, each of which have a 1x day workshop training included. You will also sit the Association for Project Management (APM) Project Management Qualification (PMQ) exam and will be externally assessed to achieve the Level 4 Associate Project Manager apprenticeship standard.

The purpose of the webinar will be to provide you with an overview of the programme, and give you the opportunity to ask any questions.

Apprenticeship guidance.

Information about the Project Management Apprenticeship delivered by Provek

A link to the webinar will be sent with the joining instruction when your booking is confirmed.

Sign up to the Apprenticeships Mailing List.

Wed 19
Coaching Skills for Managers Finished 09:30 - 12:30 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


Coaching is an essential tool for managers and other professionals to use to help individuals to unlock their full potential and enhance their performance. You will be introduced to the technique of coaching and focus on the development of a range of skills that may be used to coach others effectively. This course is highly participative and will include the opportunity to practice your coaching skills.

November 2022

Wed 2
Leadership Essentials new (1 of 2) Finished 09:30 - 14:30 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


Leadership Essentials is a key programme suitable for those with responsibilities for others’ work, behaviour and development, which aims to help managers refresh and build their skills and experience in this area. As well as clarifying key responsibilities, it focuses on critical areas that some can find more difficult, such as giving and receiving feedback effectively and handling challenging conversations. The programme incorporates tutor input; opportunities for discussion, reflection and sharing of good practice with others with similar responsibilities. It also includes curated e-learning resources to support managers with their ongoing learning and development.

Participants are required to attend both half day sessions.

Before attending, please take some time to review the short Leadership Essentials: Management Responsibilities Films of other University colleagues talking about their role as a manager.

Mon 7
Leaders and Managers Network Meeting CANCELLED 14:00 - 15:00 N/A - MS Teams


These monthly meetings are for managers and leaders across the University to meet informally and talk about the successes and challenges of this part of their role. The meetings are for all those who are professionally responsible for others in the workplace, formally and informally.

The meeting may include a short update about the Network or opportunities for leaders and managers. Following that is the chance for smaller groups of colleagues to speak about current priorities and plans, and to feedback suggestions for the development of the Network, supported by PPD.

Further information regarding the Leaders and Managers Network.