AoC Student Leadership in Further Education Programme

**Submission deadline extended to Thursday 16 October**

Students are at the heart of college life, taking on a wide range of roles that enrich both their own experiences and the wider college community. From ambassadors and advocates to representatives and officers, they play a crucial part in shaping the student experience by voicing their views, engaging with peers and stakeholders, and representing their college. These positions require the ability to influence, communicate effectively with diverse audiences, gather peer feedback, and present it to senior leaders. Such responsibilities demand confidence, readiness, and dedicated support to be fulfilled successfully.

To meet this need, the Association of Colleges is launching a Student Leadership Programme for the 2025–26 academic year. Building on the success of the AoC Sport Student Leadership Programme, this pilot will offer a mix of in-person and online activities designed to develop essential leadership skills including communication, influencing, collaboration, and confidence building—helping students reach their full potential.

The programme has been shaped by feedback from college practitioners and the FE Youth Collective, ensuring it reflects the realities of student leadership roles. By understanding the key points in the academic year, the activities students undertake, and the skills required for success, we aim to provide tailored training and support that enables student leaders to thrive.

The programme will feature two in-person events - one at the start in November and one at the conclusion in March - framing three online sessions delivered throughout the Autumn/Winter term. Participants will also have access to a suite of online resources to enhance their learning and development. To ensure the skills and knowledge gained are embedded effectively, college staff will be involved from the outset and will continue to provide support throughout the programme.

How to get involved

Programme launch: Applications open on 3 September 2025 and close on 16 October 2025 - visit the event page to start your application. Please note, a short supporting statement from the student leader and college will be required.

Format: Mix of in-person workshops and online sessions with online resources to support learning.

Cost: The cost for the full programme for AoC members is £225 +VAT. This includes a bursary* made possible by the AoC Charitable Trust for AoC members. The non-member fee is £450 +VAT. The fee will not be charged until the student has been accepted onto the programme.

*Bursary: Student leaders from AoC member colleges who are not attending the AoC Student Governors Summit (on Tuesday 18 November) are eligible for the bursary. For those leaders who are members but are also attending the Summit, the fee for this programme is £300 +VAT.

Criteria: We're looking for students in a college leadership role who can commit to the full programme and who are keen to develop their skills and leadership potential. Depending on demand, we may need to limit the number of students per college.

Dates:

• Event one - Wednesday 19 November 2025, 10:00-15:30, The ICC, Birmingham
• Online event one – Thursday 11 December 2026– 1.30-3.00pm
• Online event two – Thursday 29 January 2026 – 1.30-3.00pm
• Online event three - Thursday 26 February 2026 -1.30-3.00pm
• Event two – Thursday 19 March 2026 – 10am – 3.30pm, Birmingham, venue tbc

Who’s it for: Students in leadership, ambassador, or representative roles

To apply: submit your student's application here

Apply now