skip to navigation skip to content
- Select training provider - (PPD Personal and Professional Development)

PPD Personal and Professional Development course timetable

Show:

Thu 6 Jul 2023 – Wed 1 Nov 2023

Now Today



July 2023

Thu 6
Develop your Career: Interview Techniques Finished 09:30 - 13:30 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


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.


The University is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, welcoming and inclusive community that nurtures a culture in which we treat one another with courtesy and professionalism, whilst robustly challenging each other’s views and opinions. There is no place for bullying, harassment, discrimination, sexual misconduct, or victimisation in our community, collectively referred to as inappropriate behaviour.

The Regent House is currently considering a new Dignity at Work policy (2023 edition), Grievance Policy and Code of Behaviour. This session focuses on the practical measures, knowledge and skills needed by HR professionals, Institutional administrators and others with professional responsibility for others, to create and support a culture which is courteous and professional; where we can appropriately tackle inappropriate behaviour and where there is confidence in the systems to carry that out.

It provides techniques to support colleagues, managers and Heads of Institution to build confidence to address inappropriate behaviour and other difficult situations at the earliest stage possible maximising the potential for early and sustained resolution of any potential conflict.

The session will have interactive elements, including considering a case study and potential options for resolving with the best possible outcomes for all.

Mon 10


The University is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, welcoming and inclusive community that nurtures a culture in which we treat one another with courtesy and professionalism, whilst robustly challenging each other’s views and opinions. There is no place for bullying, harassment, discrimination, sexual misconduct, or victimisation in our community, collectively referred to as inappropriate behaviour.

The Regent House is currently considering a new Dignity at Work policy (2023 edition), Grievance Policy and Code of Behaviour. This session focuses on the practical measures, knowledge and skills needed by HR professionals, Institutional administrators and others with professional responsibility for others, to create and support a culture which is courteous and professional; where we can appropriately tackle inappropriate behaviour and where there is confidence in the systems to carry that out.

It provides techniques to support colleagues, managers and Heads of Institution to build confidence to address inappropriate behaviour and other difficult situations at the earliest stage possible maximising the potential for early and sustained resolution of any potential conflict.

The session will have interactive elements, including considering a case study and potential options for resolving with the best possible outcomes for all.

Tue 11
Leadership Essentials new (2 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.

Wed 12
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
Thu 13
Dignity at Work and Grievance: Promoting Early Resolution of Inappropriate Behaviour new Finished 13:30 - 16:30 Student Services Centre, Exams Hall, Room AG03d


The University is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, welcoming and inclusive community that nurtures a culture in which we treat one another with courtesy and professionalism, whilst robustly challenging each other’s views and opinions. There is no place for bullying, harassment, discrimination, sexual misconduct, or victimisation in our community, collectively referred to as inappropriate behaviour.

The Regent House is currently considering a new Dignity at Work policy (2023 edition), Grievance Policy and Code of Behaviour. This session focuses on the practical measures, knowledge and skills needed by HR professionals, Institutional administrators and others with professional responsibility for others, to create and support a culture which is courteous and professional; where we can appropriately tackle inappropriate behaviour and where there is confidence in the systems to carry that out.

It provides techniques to support colleagues, managers and Heads of Institution to build confidence to address inappropriate behaviour and other difficult situations at the earliest stage possible maximising the potential for early and sustained resolution of any potential conflict.

The session will have interactive elements, including considering a case study and potential options for resolving with the best possible outcomes for all.

Fri 14


This informal small group discussion is for those who have attended Staff Review and Development (Appraisal) an Overview for all Staff or have completed the Effective Staff Review and Development: Online module or who have equivalent knowledge and experience of the process.

The session is a chance to consider how you can prepare for a constructive and meaningful discussion, and to share your experience and questions with others.

Thu 20


Join Resourcing Advisors, Andrew Rowland and Hannah Harper to discuss everything recruitment and resourcing!

This session is an introduction to the HR Resourcing Team, discussing our areas of expertise and services we provide. Showcasing the recruitment and retention initiatives, we will look at what has been achieved in 2023 so far, and the plans moving forward based on your feedback and suggestions. We will discuss how to find recruitment-related support and best practice information, with the aim of you leaving more confident in this area. The team are keen to understand your current recruiting experiences and explore new ways in which we can support you through this challenging time of hiring.

Further information regarding the Leaders and Managers Network.

Tue 25


The University is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, welcoming and inclusive community that nurtures a culture in which we treat one another with courtesy and professionalism, whilst robustly challenging each other’s views and opinions. There is no place for bullying, harassment, discrimination, sexual misconduct, or victimisation in our community, collectively referred to as inappropriate behaviour.

The Regent House is currently considering a new Dignity at Work policy (2023 edition), Grievance Policy and Code of Behaviour. This session focuses on the practical measures, knowledge and skills needed by HR professionals, Institutional administrators and others with professional responsibility for others, to create and support a culture which is courteous and professional; where we can appropriately tackle inappropriate behaviour and where there is confidence in the systems to carry that out.

It provides techniques to support colleagues, managers and Heads of Institution to build confidence to address inappropriate behaviour and other difficult situations at the earliest stage possible maximising the potential for early and sustained resolution of any potential conflict.

The session will have interactive elements, including considering a case study and potential options for resolving with the best possible outcomes for all.

September 2023

Tue 5
Associate Project Manager Level 4 Apprenticeships Webinar new Finished 14:00 - 14:45 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.

Wed 6
Leaders and Managers Network Meeting Finished 09:30 - 10:30 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 Leaders and Managers Network.

Thu 7
Inclusive Leadership Programme (4 of 4) Finished 09:30 - 13:00 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room

This programme is designed to support leaders and managers across the University (in academic, research and professional service posts) with the skills and insights they need to lead others effectively. It will enable participants to reflect on their current leadership style and provide techniques they can use to effectively manage a diverse range of perspectives and create an inclusive culture across the University. Those with responsibility for others have a key role to play in shaping a positive working environment, supporting progression and ensuring equality, including pay equality. Given the University's strategic priorities, it is critical that leaders and managers understand the impact of their decisions throughout the employment timeline and know how to reduce the risk of sex, race or other discrimination, whether explicit or implicit.

The programme is delivered in partnership with Pearn Kandola, experts in evidence-based inclusive leadership development.

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.

Thanu Mahendra 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 November 2023. 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.

Tue 12

During this period, PPD is keen to continue to promote development opportunities for University staff. This information webinar will help you to identify if you wish to progress your development by way of an Apprenticeship.

We are looking to explore what interest there is at this current time in the Laboratory Technician Level 3 and Technician Scientist Level 5 apprenticeships and hope that there will be sufficient interest to establish a 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. Any participants will also have the advantage of a peer group support to work through the programme with. The webinar will be presented by CSR Scientific Training Ltd, who specialise in the delivery of these apprenticeship programmes.

Laboratory Technicians are found in a wide range of organisations, including but not exclusively, chemical, primary and secondary pharmaceutical, biotechnology, formulated products, nuclear companies; and analytical science services, dental laboratories and educational establishments. The broad purpose of the occupation is working at the forefront of technology to carry out both routine and one-off laboratory testing (and manufacturing where relevant) and perform a variety of technical support functions across the organisations.

The broad purpose of the Technician Scientist is to carry out established laboratory based investigations and scientific experimentation using bench and instrumentation techniques. A technician scientist will apply a range of skills and follow well established principles associated with their organisation’s science and technology. They carry out routine lines of enquiry, development or investigation. They collect scientific information and analyse, interpret and evaluate data. They prepare results and provide progress updates of their work.

Mon 18
Technical Managers Network CANCELLED 15:00 - 16:00 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 2023

Thu 5
Leadership Essentials (1 of 2) Finished 09:30 - 14:30 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


Leadership Essentials is a key programme suitable for those with responsibilities for the work, behaviour and development of others. The programme aims to help managers refresh and build their skills and experience in this area, as well as clarifying key responsibilities of manager and leader. It focuses on critical areas, such as giving and receiving feedback effectively and handling challenging conversations, using leadership styles and models to support individuals and teams. The programme incorporates tutor input; opportunities for discussion, case studies, 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.

Wed 11
Recruitment and Selection Skills Finished 09:30 - 16:15 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


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 12
Administrator Development Programme: Briefing Session Finished 10:00 - 13:00 Hughes Hall, Pavilion 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 Conflict in the Workplace for Managers Finished 11:30 - 12:30 N/A - MS Teams


Managing conflict 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.

Leaders and Managers Network Meeting Finished 11:30 - 12:30 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 Leaders and Managers Network.

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 17
Induction for New Managers and Leaders at Cambridge Finished 09:30 - 12:00 N/A - MS Teams


This 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, behavior 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 inclusive working environment.

This interactive session will explore the responsibilities of a manager or leader at the University, introduce tools to support the performance of your team, 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
Wed 18
Coaching Skills for Managers Finished 13:30 - 16:30 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.

Thu 19
Leadership Essentials (2 of 2) Finished 09:30 - 14:30 Greenwich House, Edmonton Room


Leadership Essentials is a key programme suitable for those with responsibilities for the work, behaviour and development of others. The programme aims to help managers refresh and build their skills and experience in this area, as well as clarifying key responsibilities of manager and leader. It focuses on critical areas, such as giving and receiving feedback effectively and handling challenging conversations, using leadership styles and models to support individuals and teams. The programme incorporates tutor input; opportunities for discussion, case studies, 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.

November 2023

Wed 1
Leadership Essentials (1 of 2) Finished 09:30 - 14:30 N/A - MS Teams


Leadership Essentials is a key programme suitable for those with responsibilities for the work, behaviour and development of others. The programme aims to help managers refresh and build their skills and experience in this area, as well as clarifying key responsibilities of manager and leader. It focuses on critical areas, such as giving and receiving feedback effectively and handling challenging conversations, using leadership styles and models to support individuals and teams. The programme incorporates tutor input; opportunities for discussion, case studies, 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.