A 12-month talent development programme designed to retain and accelerate mid-level women working in the Built Environment. Our focus on mid-level directly reflects this being the stage where the industry has the biggest retention challenge.
What’s included?
Structured leadership development
In person Emerging Leadership training specific to the mid-level stage.
Coaching & peer learning
Small-group coaching with a cross-sector cohort, creating space for reflection, challenge and shared learning.
Mentoring & support
1:1 mentoring with a senior female industry leader (15+ years’ experience), bringing perspective, challenge and real-world insight alongside the core programme.
Community & allyship
Networking events across the year including our BYOB (Bring Your Own Bloke) allyship event engaging senior male allies and widening accountability for change across the industry.
Resources & tools
Ongoing access to practical, digestible learning and resources via the Circle Academy app to support day-to-day development.
How the Programme Works
The Circle Academy runs over 12 months. Participants join one of two annual intakes (January or July), creating overlapping cohorts and a dynamic, cross-sector community.
The annual programme is split into two distinct phases, each with a clear focus:
1. Develop (Months 1–6)
Building confidence, capability and connections through:
- Programme launch
- Emerging Leadership training
- Group coaching
2. Embed (Months 6–12)
Turning development into lasting change through
- 1:1 Mentoring
- Regular learning via The Circle Academy app
- Peer network and community building
Impact and Investment
Why the programme works
Focused on the critical mid-level drop-off point
Cross-company cohort (not siloed internal development)
Intentionally combines coaching, development, mentoring and network exposure to address research backed barriers to progression
Investment
A cost-effective way to retain and develop high-potential talent at a fraction of the cost of replacement and rehiring.
1-4 spaces: £3,750 + VAT
5-9 spaces: £3,500 + VAT
10+ spaces: £3,250 + VAT
Who is it for?
The Circle Academy is for any and all mid-career women working across the built environment. This includes site-based, technical, operational, and head office roles.
You are eligible if you consider yourself to be at a mid-career stage. While you are free to define what mid-level means for you, many of our applicants are:
No longer early career, but not yet in senior leadership
Starting to lead people, projects or resources
Ready to take the next step but need the right support
