Reflection on the Laidlaw Leadership Training

The Leadership Development training sessions run by Durham University's Laidlaw team provided an invaluable introduction to the Laidlaw Scholarship and challenged me to think more deeply about what effective leadership looks like in practice. Over two days at Ushaw College, I developed new leadership skills and learnt so much from both those leading the training and from the scholars around me. 

The programme began with a tour of Ushaw College, which provided a great opportunity for me to get to know my fellow scholars in a relaxed setting before the leadership sessions began. We then took part in a series of workshops led by Guy Richardson, who introduced us to key leadership principles and encouraged us to think critically about the qualities that make an effective leader. One of the most important lessons I took away from these sessions on the first day was that leadership is not simply about directing others; it is about building trust, listening to different perspectives, and creating an environment where everyone can contribute meaningfully.

The formal dinner on the first evening was another memorable aspect of the training days. While it was an enjoyable social event, it also demonstrated the value of relationship-building within a team. Spending time with my cohort outside the workshop environment helped strengthen our connections and create a sense of community that carried over into the collaborative activities on the second day.

The second day then focused on applying the leadership concepts we had learned on the first day through a practical group project. My group was tasked with designing a healthy food programme for a community whose standard diets lacked sufficient nutrients. The challenge was not only to improve nutrition but also to do so in a way that was culturally sensitive and respectful of existing traditions and preferences. We were required to consider every stage of the project, from initial research and planning to implementation, evaluation, and potential risks.

I found this exercise particularly valuable as it provided a realistic insight into what my future Leadership In Action project could involve. Rather than focusing solely on generating ideas, we had to think carefully about practical considerations, including where support could be accessed, what obstacles might arise, and how challenges could be addressed if things did not go according to plan. 

The project also allowed me to develop my presentation and public speaking skills as we had to share our ideas with the wider cohort at different intervals in the planning process. Guy gave us specific advice when we were individually presenting, which was incredibly helpful. 

Perhaps the most significant reflection from the training sessions was recognising the strengths of my cohort. Throughout the discussions and group work, I was continually impressed by the breadth of knowledge, experience, and unique skills that each scholar brought to the table. Everyone seemed to have a particular area of expertise or perspective that enriched our conversations and strengthened our ideas. Through the sessions, I realised just how much I can learn from my peers throughout the 2-year Laidlaw programme. Although we are all doing different projects, we can support each other throughout the process, which is incredibly reassuring!  

Overall, the leadership training was an inspiring start to my Laidlaw journey. It provided practical leadership tools, strengthened my confidence in teamwork and communication, and gave me a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved in creating meaningful change. But most importantly, it showed me the value of learning from others.

I am now really looking forward to being in Durham this summer whilst completing my research, as I know that I have a great cohort of Laidlaw scholars around me that can support me on my journey!