Ensuring that the right information flows freely to and from internal and external
stakeholders is critical to the smooth operation of Local Authorities and enabling them to effectively achieve their strategic objectives.
Developed in partnership with the Local Government Management Authority (LGMA) this course is designed for communicators specifically working in local government in Ireland and anyone working in a Public Relations or communications function (both external and internal) in this sector.
The course will centre around participants developing an understanding of why and how strategic communications involves purposeful communications initiatives designed specifically to advance your Council’s strategic priorities. As well as drafting a strategic communication plan which includes action plans that are linked to your Council’s strategic priorities.
This will give participants a sense of how the various PR/communications practices should be integrated and work together to achieve a specific purpose.
Who is this course for?
This course has been designed in association with the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) for communicators working in local authorities.
Learning Outcomes
This programme will provide participants with:
- A clear understanding of the characteristics and challenges of local authority communications;
- An overview and understanding of strategic communications and public relations management, and their role in organisational strategy implementation;
- An introduction to strategic management, strategy development and the associated challenges;
- An understanding of the professional challenge facing communicators;
- An appreciation of stakeholder and issues mapping and management;
- A developed appreciation of how communicators can have a positive impact on the functioning of a local authority;
- The skills to create and develop a communications strategy and plans in support of your Local Authority’s strategic objectives;
- The expertise and confidence to lead and advocate for improved communications within an organisation.
Format - Remote Blended Course Delivery:
The PRII Certificate in Strategic Local Authority Communications is delivered using a blended approach incorporating a number of delivery methods (live online lectures; live online tutorials, student group work and self-directed learning).
Learning materials available to students will include a dedicated course resource webpage hosting video lessons, notes, readings and references.
Classes are supplemented by contributions from sectoral guest speakers and subject matter experts who will share their expertise and practical experience of the issues explored during lectures.
Participants are encouraged to share their experiences and question presenters and guest speakers.
Timetable
- Tuesday, 21 January – Introductory Lecture (Live online 10am – 12:30pm)
- 28 January – Tutorial & Guest Speaker (Live online 10am – 11:30am);
- 11 February – Lecture (Live online 10am – 11:30am)
- 18 February – Tutorial & Guest Speaker (Live online 10am – 11:30am)
- 25 February – Lecture (Live online 10am – 11:30am)
- 04 March – Tutorial & Guest Speaker (Live online 10am – 11:30am)
- 11 March – Lecture (Live online 10am – 11:30am)
- 25 March – In Person Tutorial [Draft assignment presentations] (Live online 10am – 12:30pm)
Tuesday, 06 May — Assignment submission deadline 2pm
Assessment & Accreditation:
Participants are encouraged to apply learning from the modules, discussions and readings and show how these apply to their own work situation and local authority communications challenges.
Final assessment for this course is comprised of two elements:
- A reflective journal where the learner can record and reflect upon their observations and responses to each day’s learning and the overall learning from the course; and
- A 3,000 word strategic planning assignment applying the learnings to develop a communications plan and calendar for your local authority.
This assessment must be completed and submitted six weeks after completion of
the course.
Accredited by the Public Relations Institute of Ireland – the professional body for communications and PR in Ireland, the PRII Certificate in Strategic Communications for Local Authorities will be awarded on successful completion of the course assessments.
