A second cohort of 50 councillors has been hand-picked for an innovative national programme designed to identify future leaders.

The group has qualified for Next Generation, a cutting edge programme developed by the Leadership Centre for Local Government.

During the 18 month programme, councillors from the three major parties will develop practical leadership skills, work with the best of policy-makers and have privileged access to senior party members.

The centre has tailored Next Generation to each of the political parties, with three political directors overseeing the programme.

The Conservative's cohort is led by Christina Dykes who begins with the place shaping agenda raised in the Lyons report and later explores community partnerships, community wellbeing and cohesion in association with the Warwick Business School's Institute of Governance and Public Management.

Political director Paul Wheeler takes the Labour cohort through several development weekends drawing on the expertise of the Centre for Public Scrutiny and work psychologists. The programme includes a visit to Downing Street. 

The Liberal Democrat's political director Erica Kemp leads her party's cohort who examine the characteristics of political success, the Westminster establishment and project mentoring with LGA support.

Joe Simpson, in charge of Next Generation at the Leadership Centre, said: "Our politicians have a real impact on residents of their boroughs so it's crucial they get the very best of leaders." 

Now in its second year, Next Generation provides the country's aspiring councillors with the support and personal development needed to help them transform into visionary leaders for their communities. 

Joe Simpson added: "This programme is at the forefront of leadership development. Politics is the lifeblood of local government because it's what connects councils to their communities.

The Leadership Centre works with local authorities and politicians of all parties throughout England.