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ADSO Professional Development Programmes

As part of our commitment to supporting excellence in local government, we coordinate two national professional development programmes on behalf of the Association of Democratic Services Officers (ADSO):

  • ADSO Certificate in Democratic Services Knowledge
  • Diploma in Local Democracy

These non-accredited programmes provide a structured learning and development pathway for officers working within democratic services and those seeking to develop a broader understanding of local democracy and decision-making in local government.

The ADSO Certificate in Democratic Services Knowledge is a 16-month programme that combines practical workplace learning with professional development, helping participants build their knowledge, confidence and understanding of the democratic services profession. Assessment is designed to reflect workplace learning and is undertaken through a variety of methods, including portfolio development, written assignments, open-book assessment and professional discussion.

For those looking to further develop their expertise, the Diploma in Local Democracy enables participants to explore local democracy and governance in greater depth. The programme includes independent research, written assignments and a dissertation, providing an opportunity to examine an area of practice and develop recommendations that could support service improvement within local government.

Participants can complete the programme over a period of up to two years, providing flexibility alongside work commitments.

South West Councils manage programme coordination and administration of these programmes through our partnership agreement with ADSO, helping to support participants from local authorities across England and Wales.

For full details of the programmes, including content, eligibility requirements and application information, please visit the ADSO website:

 

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