General practice needs strong, compassionate leaders at every level - from practice and locality to system and national leadership. RCGP supports members to discover, develop and grow their leadership capability throughout their career.
Why leadership matters
Leadership is central to delivering high‑quality, person‑centred care and sustaining the future of general practice. At RCGP, leadership is rooted in our purpose - improving patient care, supporting our members, and strengthening general practice as a profession.
Leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about influence, collaboration and making change happen - whether you’re leading within your practice, your local system, or across primary care.
Starting your leadership journey
You don’t need a formal role to be a leader. Many GPs begin by:
- Leading quality improvement or service redesign
- Supporting colleagues and multidisciplinary teams
- Getting involved in education, training or faculty activity.
RCGP provides structured learning, frameworks and peer support to help you build confidence and capability at every stage.
Shaping the Future Leadership Programme
Shaping the Future is our flagship leadership programme designed to help you step confidently into the next stage of your career.
Available exclusively to members, the programme blends high‑quality eLearning developed by the College with locally delivered learning alongside peers and experienced leaders.
Through facilitated small‑group sessions, you’ll build meaningful connections, explore leadership in depth, share ideas and projects, and grow as part of a supportive community of practice.
If you’re considering a career in leadership, this is the perfect way to start that journey. More information about the programme and what you can expect can be found below.
Applications for the next cohort close on 31 May 2026.
Develop your leadership skills
RCGP Leadership Capabilities Framework
At the heart of RCGP leadership development is the Leadership Capabilities Framework, setting out the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to lead effectively in general practice.
Use the framework to:
- Understand your current strengths
- Identify development priorities
- Plan your next leadership step.
Explore the Leadership Capabilities Framework
Leadership eLearning
Access flexible, self‑directed learning designed for busy GPs, covering leadership fundamentals, teamworking, influencing and change.
Leadership‑related courses and events
RCGP runs leadership‑focused courses, workshops and conferences throughout the year, offering opportunities to:
- Learn from experienced GP leaders
- Build your professional network
- Apply leadership learning to real‑world challenges.
Find leadership courses and events
Leadership podcasts
Amar Rughani and Joanna Bircher interview a range of colleagues about their leadership journeys. Amar and Joanna are GPs who have written about the art of leadership in ‘The Leadership Hike: Shaping Primary Care Together’ (CRC Press, 2020).
RCGP Wales Leadership Programme
The RCGP Wales Leadership Programme produces GP leaders with clear vision and purpose, able to voice opinions and influence policy. They are well placed to work with integrated health organisations which are endeavouring to shift the point of care towards community led services. RCGP Wales has been conducting the very successful Leadership Programme since 2011.
The programme creates an environment for participants to learn through experiences in a generative learning community which allows them space for experimentation and reflexive action. They have the capacity to access integrated development methods, a focus on practical applications and to utilise individual, self-management and self-directed learning in a leadership context.
To find out more information, please contact kate.nash@rcgp.org.uk.
Additional career support
Leadership development is part of a wider career journey. RCGP offers tools and support to help you plan, reflect and progress.
Career toolkit
Explore resources to help you assess your options, set goals and make informed career decisions.
Explore RCGP jobs and advice toolkit
GPwER (GP with Extended Role)
Find guidance on developing extended roles that align with your interests, skills and leadership ambitions.
Appraisal and revalidation
Access support and guidance to ensure your leadership activity is recognised and evidenced through appraisal and revalidation.
Find RCGP appraisal and revalidation guide
Faculties and Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
Get involved locally or nationally through RCGP faculties and SIGs - a key route into leadership, influence and peer support.
Explore RCGP groups and communities
Mentorship
Mentoring provides space to reflect, build confidence and gain perspective from experienced colleagues.
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