School for Government

An independent

School for Government

Learn how the British state really works, from the people who have run it. Short courses, evening events and year-long programmes for anyone working in public life, or thinking about it. In person, off the record, and open to all parties and none.

Not sure where to start?

Find the right starting point

I’m early in my career

Aspiring to enter public life, or already in a public role

Start with our policy courses

I’m a civil servant or special adviser

Early to mid career, aiming for a senior role

Start with Skills for Statecraft

I’m a leader from outside government

Considering a public appointment or elected office

Start with Preparing for Whitehall

I’m a senior leader in a public role

Looking for development and a wider network

Start with events for senior leaders

The 2026/27 prospectus sets out a full suggested pathway for each, and our team is happy to advise.

Why Civic Future

Taught by people who have held the jobs

Every session is led by former ministers, special advisers, senior civil servants and frontline leaders. Cohorts are small and mixed, and everything is held under the Chatham House Rule.

4.5/5 average course rating
95%+ would recommend a course

“Preparing for Whitehall is an incredible course for anyone who aspires to serve at the highest levels of Government. Genuinely one of the best courses I’ve undertaken for a long time.”

Participant, Preparing for Whitehall

Questions

Good to know

Who can attend?

Anyone working in or around government, or considering it: civil servants, advisers, party and parliamentary staff, candidates, and people from business, academia, the professions and the frontline.

Where are courses held?

In person at Public Hall, 1 Horse Guards Avenue, London SW1A 2HU, and at partner venues around the country.

What if a course is full?

Many courses are oversubscribed. We’ll suggest another date or a similar course, and we often add dates when there’s demand.

Can you run a course for my organisation?

Yes. We tailor courses for companies, public bodies, universities and political parties. Email [email protected].

Ready to get started?

Find a course, or tell us what interests you and we’ll let you know when dates are set.