Policy on Learning, Training and Development: A Strategy for Lifelong Learning and Continuous Improvement

A new Policy on Learning, Training and Development has been approved by Treasury Board Ministers to support employees at all levels-from front line employees to executives-by providing access to leading-edge training programs to ensure they are fully equipped to meet the challenges of their role and their ability to serve Canadians. This policy follows an investment in career-long learning in public service announced earlier this fall. More precisely:

• new employees will have access to orientation training designed to ensure that they share a common understanding of their role as public servants, as well as the values and ethics of the public service;

• specialists in financial management, internal audit, procurement, materiel management, real property, information management and human resources will have access to specialized training programs to support professional development and certification;

• newly appointed supervisors, managers and executives will have an opportunity to complete training on delegation of authority prior to taking on their new legal responsibilities;

• existing managers and executives will use on-line self-assessment tools to assess their knowledge of legal responsibilities; and
  

• employees at all levels will be supported in their career growth and progression through learning plans that will allow them to acquire and maintain knowledge, skills and competencies related to their level and function.

While the Policy on Learning, Training and Development will replace the current Policy for Continuous Learning in the Public Service of Canada as of January 1, 2006, its implementation will be phased in over a period ending January 1, 2007. The new policy will also bring changes to the Career Assignment Program (CAP) and the Management Trainee Program (MTP), which will be aligned into one leadership development continuum. For more information, please refer to the policy or the Frequently Asked Questions on the Agency's Internet site.

The Canada School of Public Service is designing and preparing for the delivery, in 2006, of orientation programs for new employees, courses and programs for functional specialists and first-time managers at all levels, and instruments for validating knowledge of current managers and executives. More information on the availability of courses and programs will be communicated as it becomes available.

he development of this new policy is part of the Treasury Board Portfolio's Policy Renewal Initiative aimed at clarifying the responsibilities and accountabilities of the public service with respect to management policies. The Policy Renewal Initiative is a key enabler of the government's commitment to continuously improve public service management.

The success of this new Policy is due in large part to the outstanding work by our colleagues in The Leadership Network, under the direction of Mark Corey.

Congratulations to all!

Michelle Chartrand
President