New generation of general practice leaders graduate in Cornwall

A new cohort of learners from Cornwall’s Practice Manager Development Programme have graduated this month, marking another major step in strengthening the future of general practice across the county. 

Delivered by Kernow Health’s Cornwall Training Hub, the award winning programme is designed not just for traditional practice managers, but for anyone in a management role within general practice - including those working in HR, finance and operations. This reflects the way many practices operate as larger, more complex organisations, with responsibilities shared across specialist roles.  

Open to people at all stages of their career, the programme is designed to support individuals where they are. Participants may be new to general practice, stepping in from a different career, or experienced staff looking for career progression, to broaden their skills or take on greater responsibility. 

Over 18 months, participants develop leadership skills, operational knowledge and a deeper understanding of how general practice functions. But for those completing the programme, the impact goes far beyond professional development. 

Many described the experience as “life changing”. 

Participants spoke about feeling more empowered in their roles, with a stronger grasp of how their work fits into the wider system. This broader understanding has enabled them to be more effective in their day-to-day responsibilities and more confident in contributing to the running of their practices. 

One particularly powerful example shared at the graduation highlighted the programme’s role in succession planning. A long-serving practice manager, who had delayed retirement due to concerns about leaving the practice unsupported, attended alongside their trainee. With the trainee now ready to step up, both described feeling reassured and excited - the manager able to step back, and the trainee confident to take on greater responsibility. 

The structure of the programme has been key to its success. Designed to fit around full-time / busy roles, sessions are delivered over an extended period with no requirement for time away from work. Training takes place in practices across Cornwall, giving participants valuable insight into different ways of working and exposing them to a wide range of approaches and challenges. 

One of the most significant outcomes has been the support network created through the programme. 

Participants consistently highlighted the importance of both the formal support provided by course leaders and the informal peer network developed across the cohort. These relationships have continued beyond the programme itself, creating a lasting community of practice that individuals can draw on throughout their careers. 

Practice leaders and sponsors also emphasised the wider value of the programme. By developing staff from within, practices can build resilience, support succession planning and create clear progression pathways for their teams. 

As general practice continues to evolve, initiatives like this are playing a vital role in preparing the next generation of leaders - not only to manage services, but to shape how they develop in the future.