Learning & Support

Everything you need to know about joining a course at SSE

Learning at SSE

If you want learning that leads to action, you are in the right place. SSE offers practical, energising support that helps you move from ideas to real progress. You will learn from people who have built and grown mission-led organisations, work on your own challenges in the room, and leave with clear next steps you can put into practice immediately.

Whether you choose a longer programme or a short workshop, you will join a supportive learning community that is inclusive, jargon-free and rooted in real-world experience. No essays, no exams, no academic requirments. Just the tools, confidence and momentum to take your work further.

Two woman standing up and writing on sheets of paper during an SSE learning programme

1381

leaders of social change supported in 2024-25

791

participants on our workshops

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participants on our programmes

What to expect on an SSE programme

SSE programmes give you time, structure and support to make meaningful change. You will build your skills, strengthen your organisation and keep moving towards your goals. You will not just learn about social change, you will do it, alongside peers and experts.

You will join a group of around 20 people who get it. Different backgrounds, shared purpose. You will learn together, challenge each other, and leave with connections that often last well beyond the programme.

Our speakers are called “witnesses” because they bring the real story. Expect honesty about what it takes to build something that works, including mistakes, turning points and what they would do differently. You will leave with ideas you can adapt, not theory you will forget.

When you need specialist input, you get it. Practical sessions with experienced professionals covering the areas that help organisations grow, such as income generation, sales and marketing, finance, legal structures, governance and planning.

On longer programmes, you may be matched with a mentor, often from one of our corporate partners. It is focused, tailored support to help you think clearly, make better decisions and move forward faster.

This is where breakthroughs happen. In small groups, you bring your real challenges and leave with actions. You will be supported to ask sharper questions, see new options, and commit to the next step with accountability.

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Students from our Women's Enterprise Growth Programme standing as a group on some steps smiling and waving their hands in the air

What to expect on an SSE workshop

SSE workshops are a short, skills-boosting hit of practical learning. They usually last one or two days, focus on one topic, and give you tools you can use immediately. They are open to everyone and designed to help you take your next step with confidence.

Each workshop tackles one priority topic and breaks it into practical steps, tools and examples you can use straight away.

Every workshop is led by a live trainer who responds to the group and tailors the session to what people need in the room.

Expect discussion, hands-on exercises and real-time problem solving, not long presentations.

Sessions are led by experienced practitioners, so learning stays grounded, relevant and actionable.

We have delivered SSE workshops and short courses since 2011, working with thousands of people across the charity, public and social enterprise sectors.

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