Introducing New Horizons
We’re delighted to announce the launch of New Horizons, a leadership programme specifically for people with lived experience of sight loss, which will kick-off in June.
The programme – developed by RNIB, Guide Dogs and Thomas Pocklington Trust on behalf of the wider Vision Partnership – will provide existing blind and partially sighted leaders with the skills and capabilities to progress further as leaders.
About the programme
New Horizons is being developed in partnership with Hult Ashridge, an internationally recognised and respected provider of executive education. They are working with us to build the programme around development opportunities which meet the unique needs of people with lived experience of sight loss.
The 8-9 month pilot programme starts in June 2025 with its first cohort of approximately 12 participants. We expect that half of the pilot participants will be selected from within Guide Dogs, Thomas Pocklington Trust and RNIB and the remaining half from other Vision Partnership and Visionary network organisations.
Who can apply?
New Horizons is suited to existing leaders with lived experience currently working (for at least one year) for a Vision Partnership or Visionary network membership organisation and who meet the programme requirements in terms of requisite experience.
It will focus on accelerating the development of individuals who are already in a leadership position and who are looking to make the next step into a more senior leadership role. Participants will already have experience of leading people, leading change or leading strategic initiatives within their organisation.
How to apply?
The timetable below outlines the stages and deadlines to apply for New Horizons.
- Now – 14 March – Email Paul Wesley, Project Lead at Guide Dogs, to find out more about the programme. This will help you to decide if it is the right programme for you at this stage of your career. Following your conversation with Paul you will be able to express your interest in applying to join New Horizons.
- 6 – 18 March – The window for applications to join the programme will be open. You will need to complete a written application form by no later than 18 March 2025.
- 18 March-22 April – Following a review of the written applications, a list of shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview. The final list of participants on the pilot programme will be told they have been successful by the end of April.
- June – New Horizon pilot commences.
- Early 2026 – New Horizon pilot ends.
Further information
To find out more about New Horizons, please email Paul Wesley, who will be able to let you have copies of the following:
- FAQs with more information about the programme.
- A video featuring Dave Aldwinckle from RNIB, Cathy Low from Thomas Pocklington Trust, and Alex Pepper from Guide Dogs in which they discuss New Horizons, it’s significance and why existing leaders with lived experience of sight loss should consider joining the programme.
Ends
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