Delivering a bespoke master’s degree for UK government communicators. Between leadership, co-creation and reflective practice

Purpose – The article discusses a bespoke master’s programme delivered since 2014 to more than 250 leaders working in the Government Communication Service – the British professional group representing more than 7,000 Civil Service communicators in central government departments, agencies and arm’s-length bodies.

Design/methodology/approach – A case study is presented with a detailed analysis of a bespoke postgraduate programme. Data about its effectiveness were gathered through documentary evidence from programme participants.

Findings – Through co-creation, which is central to its ethos, the programme is re-created each time it is run, thereby ensuring that it addresses participants’ current challenges and remains contemporary. This has improved the strategic influence and impact of the participants and enhanced the performance of their organisations. Reflection and reflexivity in the workplace have been acknowledged as crucial to its success.

Originality/value – The article presents the characteristics and impact of this innovative programme over the ten years it has been in place. Its explicit positioning at the intersection of leadership, communication and government effectiveness makes it unique.