Overview
Step into your role with clarity, confidence, and impact
This two-day induction course is tailored for new and aspiring non- executive directors (NEDs) in NHS trusts and foundation trusts. Delivered in partnership with NHS England, it offers a comprehensive introduction to the role, responsibilities, and expectations of NEDs operating in today’s NHS.
Through expert insights and peer discussion, this course equips participants with the context, confidence and practical knowledge they need to contribute meaningfully from day one.
Key takeaways
- Gain a clear understanding of the NED role within NHS trust boards, including duties, behaviours and core responsibilities.
- Learn how NHS providers operate within the wider health and care system.
- Explore the challenges and opportunities facing boards in the current NHS landscape.
- Engage in peer learning and build connections with other NEDs from across the country.
- Understand how to contribute to board-level decision-making, holding executives to account while supporting effective governance.
Why this matters
NEDs play a vital role in shaping trust strategy, providing scrutiny, and ensuring accountability. As the NHS faces continued pressures and transformation, the demands on boards are growing. This induction ensures that new NEDs are well prepared to step into their roles with clarity and confidence, supporting strong governance and high-quality care.
I attended this programme myself as a new NED just over two years ago and cannot commend it highly enough. Has formed a key part for me in how I conduct the role and I urge any new NEDs to take part.
Northamptonshire Healthcare Foundation Trust
What we'll cover
- An up-to-date overview of the NHS policy landscape.
- NHS governance and the responsibilities of NEDs.
- The board's role in managing risk.
- A policy overview of NHS finances and funding.
- An introduction to oversight and support from NHS England.
- The role of Care Quality Commission in regulation.
- The board's role in race equality.
- Developing your impact as a newly appointed non-executive director.
- The opportunity for you to meet and network with peers from other organisations.
This is a two-day event and delegates are expected to attend both days. Estimated timings are 9:15am to 4:30pm on day one and 9:30am to 4pm on day two (subject to change).
Trainers

Pamela Chesters
Associate - Board Development Programme
NHS Providers

Sandy Cook
Policy Advisor - Finance
NHS Providers

John Coutts
Associate - Board Development Programme
NHS Providers

Chris Day
Director of Strategy
NHS England

Chris Hopson
Director of Strategy
NHS England

Professor Durka Dougall
Chief Executive
Centre for Population Health

Jacqui Marshall
Associate - Board Development Programme
NHS Providers

Emily Newton
Policy Advisor - Systems
NHS Providers
Pricing
Open to NHS Providers members, associate members and non-members.
Member: £490 (ex VAT) | £588 (incl. VAT)
Associate Member: £615 (ex VAT) | £738 (incl. VAT)
Non Member: £735 (ex VAT) | £882 (incl. VAT)
You will need to provide a purchase order number at booking to confirm your place on this course. Card payments are also accepted.
Follow the 'Book now' link at the top of this page to book your place. You will need to create an account if you have not already done so.
Who should attend
- New NEDs who are less than six-nine months in post.
- Aspiring NEDs.