About Time is a multi-faceted campaign supported by Common Purpose. The campaign will increase the number of people involved in public life across the UK, by overcoming barriers that get in the way of participation. After all, effective boards need more people to root, connect, serve and challenge them. And the breadth that diversity provides is critical to a board’s ability to spot issues and trends.

Over the years there have been many initiatives seeking to increase the numbers involved in public life without much success. So isn’t it About Time we really made it happen?

Support to make the transition from local to national boards

About Time Intensive is a two day development course that will help people who are on local boards make the transition to regional or national public boards.

About Time Intensive course participants will:

• Examine good governance and board practices, including the Langlands Standards of Good Governance and the Nolan Principles.
• Meet, interview and debate with experienced board members – and the executives they work with – to figure out how they operate in board situations and balance competing priorities.
• Attend workshops on how to complete application forms and rework CVs for public appointments, and how to best present themselves at interview.
• Develop the skills needed to be effective board members including strategic planning, restructuring, communicating and crisis management.
• Assess their own strengths and weaknesses, so that they can make their own unique contribution to public life.

Is the About Time Intensive course for me?

Participants must have experience of operating on a local board or committee and have an interest in holding a regional or national public appointment.

Read about the experiences of previous participants.

When is the About Time Intensive held?

21 – 22 October 2010.

Where will the About Time Intensive take place?

Central London.

How much does the About Time Intensive cost?

The fee is £500 + VAT (which includes all materials and refreshments). There are a number of reduced fee places and bursaries available for those who are genuinely unable to meet the full fee. For more information please contact the About Time team.

Interested in taking part?

Complete an application form, an equal opportunities form and send in a copy of your CV.

Download application form

Download equal opportunities form