The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has initiated the NFCC Middle Leadership Programme project for the benefit of UK fire and rescue services.  

Led by Project Executive ACFO Matt Cook, in conjunction with the project team under NFCC’s Leadership Programme, the project aims to provide a standardised approach to developing middle managers, both operational and support, for the fire sector. 

The programme will incorporate blended and social learning approaches to broaden diversity of thought, skills and knowledge, with the aim of developing people-focused and empowering leaders. 

Alongside the national programme, a portal containing online learning modules will support new, existing and aspiring middle managers.

The Middle Leadership Programme will provide a transition from the Supervisory Leadership Development Programme, launched by the NFCC in September 2022, which supports individuals to further their leadership journey to the strategic leadership pathway.  

The programme is aligned to the NFCC Leadership Framework, Core Learning Pathway and Core Code of Ethics.  

Intended to be inclusive and accessible to all, a consultation to help define the full scope of the project will be available early next year.  

Project Executive ACFO Matt Cook said: “This is an exciting time for anyone beginning their leadership journey within the sector as there is, quite rightly, a significant focus on the development of our people. 

“We look forward to collaborating with services and delivering the Middle Leadership Programme.” 

The Middle Leadership Programme will complement other leadership products recently delivered by the Leadership Programme for the benefit of the sector, including the Coaching and Mentoring Portal, Talent Management Toolkit and Supervisory Leadership Development Programme.  

Further products in development include Strategic CPD Masterclasses which are virtual sessions hosted by FRS leaders. The Direct Entry Scheme will also complement the programme which is expected to be delivered in 2023.  

It is anticipated the project will go live in early 2024.