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Leadership development

Nurses and midwives learn early in their careers that they are expected to develop and demonstrate leadership qualities and take up leadership roles. Of course, the nature of leadership changes according to the job and the context, but nonetheless, leadership is a fundamental dimension of all nursing and midwifery work.

Three people seated and standing around a table, smiling and discussing a large printed poster. One person points to the poster while the others look on. Two are wearing work identification badges. One person is in an NHS uniform, another in a dark dress, and another in a dark red shirt. A whiteboard with another poster is visible in the background.

Public health approaches are critically important as Scotland works to address the increasingly complex challenges in providing effective and efficient health and social care. As the largest professional workforce group, community nursing and midwifery has the potential to make a significant positive impact.

Our focus is on providing high-quality, unique opportunities that enable nurses and midwives to work closely with local communities and to learn from them, to better understand the healthcare needs of marginalised groups, and to deepen and strengthen their capacity to lead accordingly – whether they lead care, services, or systems.

We know that the right professional development opportunities don’t just lead to better healthcare, they help prevent burnout and provide the essential networks and sustenance that can keep talented, compassionate people in their professions. We believe this is vital for the health of Scotland’s people and communities.

Current opportunities

QNIS Leadership Courses 2026-7


For community nurses and midwives working in Scotland, we are offering funded places*, supported by the Burdett Trust for Nursing, on a Queen’s Nurse Leadership 1 course taking place on Monday 2, Tuesday 3 and Wednesday 4 November 2026.

*a £75 non-refundable booking fee is payable.

Essential criteria for applicants 

  • Working as a community nurse or midwife in a clinical setting.

  • Working in Scotland.

  • Currently registered with the NMC.

  • Not under investigation by the NMC or your employing organisation.

  • Able to attend the full three days.

Click here to find out more