Initial Leadership Development Programme 2027

Initial Leadership Development Programme (ILDP) is a five-day programme designed for ambitious individuals at the beginning of their leadership journey, as well as career changers who want to grow, contribute and make a difference.

Developed by the Society of Agriculture in partnership with the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC), the programme provides an accessible first step into professional leadership development for the next generation of leaders across agriculture and the wider rural sector.

Programme Aim

The Initial Leadership Development Programme equips developing leaders with the confidence, skills and mindset to lead themselves, influence others and contribute positively to their organisations, businesses and communities.

Through a combination of practical learning, challenge, reflection and real-world experience, participants will develop leadership behaviours that can be applied immediately in the workplace and provide a foundation for future progression.

Programme Overview

Monday 15th March – Lead Self
Understand yourself, your strengths, values and leadership style, building greater confidence, resilience, and self-awareness.

Tuesday 16th March – Influence Others
Develop practical communication skills, build trust and credibility, and learn how to influence effectively without relying on formal authority.

Wednesday 17th March – Build Teams
Explore what makes high-performing and inclusive teams succeed, including collaboration, different perspectives and working effectively with others.

Thursday 18th March – Understand Organisations
Explore how organisations work, how culture and relationships influence decision-making, and the importance of professional and responsible leadership.

Friday 19th March – Shape the Future
Reflect on your development, explore future opportunities, and create a practical personal leadership plan to help you take the next step in your career.

The programme follows a clear leadership journey:

Lead Self → Influence Others → Build Teams → Understand Organisations → Shape the Future

Is this programme for you?

The ILDP is designed for those looking to take the next step in their career from across agriculture, land management, food, and the wider rural economy.

You do not need to already hold a formal leadership or management position. The programme is about developing your potential and giving you the skills and confidence to progress.

What you’ll experience

Across the five days, the programme combines learning, practical activities, and opportunities to challenge yourself and put new skills into practice.

You will explore:

• Leading Self – building confidence, resilience, and self-awareness
• Influencing without authority – communicating effectively and influencing others
• Team Challenge Day – stepping outside your comfort zone and achieving together
• Collaboration & Inclusion – understanding how diverse teams thrive and succeed
• Career Planning – exploring career pathways and future opportunities
• Reflection – taking time to reflect, reset and plan your next steps

Programme Fee

Society of Agriculture / NFYFC Member: £950 + VAT
Non-member: £1,200 + VAT

NFYFC members: Please use discount code NFYFC when booking to access the member rate.

Please note: accommodation is not included in the programme fee, and delegates will be responsible for arranging their own accommodation.

Applications

Applications close Friday 29th January 2027, or earlier if all places are filled.

For more information about the programme, please VIEW THE FAQs