BUSHkids Annual Report 2022-23

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Annual Report 2022–23

Investing in our Leaders As we grow and develop as an

organisation, it is important that we grow and develop leaders who live our core values and can achieve our vision for children, families and communities across Queensland. This year we have made a significant investment in building leadership capability. A bespoke Leadership Development Program was developed collaboratively between BUSHkids and Trevor-Roberts – career management consultants. There are three levels to the program. All staff are able to access a range of online modules to begin to grow their leadership knowledge. Two directed programs were delivered by a leadership consultant in a hybrid model of online self-directed learning, online interactive sessions and in person workshops. One program targeted emerging frontline leaders and the second took a more strategic focus for experienced leaders and managers. As part of the leaders and managers program, two projects were undertaken – one considered diversification of BUSHkids’ funding sources and the second focused on inclusion and diversity at BUSHkids. This initiative reinforces our BUSHkids Leadership Framework and will ensure BUSHkids can work collaboratively to achieve our vision – All Queensland Children will achieve their potential regardless of where they live.

The BUSHkids 2023 ‘Emerging Frontline Leaders group, with Trevor-Roberts Senior Consultant Garrick Chatterjee (R foreground).

Leadership Development Program attendee comments

From Edwin Trevor-Roberts While many organisations say that people are their number one priority, BUSHkids genuinely brings this to life through their actions. One of the primary mechanisms is the Leadership Development Program which recognises the critical role that leaders play in complex, demanding work that impacts people’s lives. The program is delivered at two levels, for Team Leaders and for Managers, recognising the different challenges each level faces. A few features of the program set it apart. First, it was co-designed to meet the needs of the leaders especially the online modules which were built in collaboration with three other NFP’s in the human services industry. Second, the design uses a blended delivery approach including group workshops, peer coaching, online learning and individual coaching in order to ensure the best learning outcomes. Third, the learning was embedded in practice as leaders were encouraged to try new approaches and learn from each other. All the leaders fully embraced the program and through their effort and energy made the most of the experience. As one participant said, “we are far more capable than we realise”

“This training was a fantastic opportunity to connect with other BUSHkids leaders, reflect on my currently leadership style and further develop my leadership skills and knowledge

“During my time in the Team Leadership Development program, I had the opportunity to connect with staff from various regions and learn from their experiences as Team Leaders. One concept that particularly stood out to me was the idea of ‘leadership shadow’ and the importance of tailoring our leadership style to each individual and situation. I have already started implementing this valuable insight in my own team approach.” ~ Occupational Therapist “The Team Leaders Leadership Development Program taught me how to check-in with staff, how to have good conversations about meeting expectations but also looking after themselves. The program included individual coaching sessions which I found immensely helpful, as I could present my individual queries about management and leadership. My coach gave me tools and strategies for asking good questions, which I have used in my interactions with colleagues and supervisees. I hope these questions and conversations have helped my supervisees feel supported whilst keeping on track with KPIs/expectations, the tools my coach provided have certainly helped me feel more confident in learning to be a leader.” ~ Speech Pathologist

to best support, inspire, motivate and empower teams.” ~ Professional Lead

“The program was a great opportunity to learn from and share knowledge with peers, getting an insight in to others thinking and ways of working. It helped me to gain confidence as a leader, which I hope in turn will create innovation and support others to their growth and development.” ~ Manager “The Leadership Development Program proved to be of incredible value, enabling me to both recognise and enhance my existing leadership capabilities while acquiring new skills and increasing my self-assurance. I firmly believe that the training and skill development provided by the program played a pivotal role in my successful transition to an Acting Team Leader position at BUSHkids by equipping me with invaluable knowledge and skill.” ~ Team Leader

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