Polis Academy
We empower the next generation to lead responsibly
We seek to empower the next generation to lead responsibly.
Since 2019, Polis Analysis has equipped emerging leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks required to navigate and address the complex challenges of our time across government, the private sector, and civil society.
The Polis Academy deepens our commitment to supporting leadership and career development. It combines rigorous training and workshops delivered by practitioners and experts with invaluable peer networks to develop leaders who thrive across sectors, build on their strengths, and shape the future of policymaking.
I. Masterclasses
In a world of constant change, continuous learning is a professional imperative.
The Polis Academy is an expert-led learning experience designed to deepen your understanding of the issues shaping business, policy, and society today and support your career development. Each Masterclass equips you with valuable knowledge, future-ready skills, and career-enhancing insights in a time-efficient, budget-friendly format. Designed for professionals, decision-makers, and lifelong learners, and delivered by leading practitioners, our Masterclasses combine academic rigour with real-world experience to strengthen your professional profile and navigate complexity with confidence.
Online | ££££ | Flexible
Upcoming Masterclasses
The Council for Countering Online Disinformation’s (CCOD) Understanding Disinformation Masterclass provides a structured introduction to the evolving threat of disinformation. Delivered over 6 weeks and led by CCOD policy specialists and members its expert network, the course examines how technological change has transformed the nature and scale of the threat and explores implications for public order, national security, and businesses. Participants will gain a foundation in counter-disinformation policy, effective solutions, and how different governments are addressing the issue before considering how it may evolve in the future, what risks it will pose, and how policymakers can act proactively.
The course is designed for researchers, students, and professionals in business, government, communications, policy, and security who want to better understand and protect their sectors from disinformation-related risks.
CCOD | Polis Academy
Lesson 1: Introduction to Disinformation
Lesson one will introduce participants to the concept of disinformation, covering themes and terms to equip them with a foundational understanding of the topic.
It will explore the history of disinformation from its origins as a tool of state propaganda, through to the developments that create the attention economy and the emergence of information warfare and the current landscape.
Our society’s changing media habits and the role of AI have exacerbated the risk of disinformation. The lesson will cover how this has changed the nature of the risk and the current state of AI-driven disinformation.
CCOD | Polis Academy
Lesson 2: Applications of disinformation
Lesson two will explore the different applications of disinformation that we see today.
Participants will gain an understanding of how disinformation enhances public order risks, poses a threat to democracy, and converts online threats to minorities into real-world violence.
These use cases will be assessed through a lens of how they can be deployed by foreign states and the often-overlooked risk of lone actors.
Upcoming Speakers
Cara Rau
Head of OSINT, Polis Analysis
John Penrose
Chairperson, Conservative Party Policy Forum
Former MP & Minister
Thomas Barton
Founder & CEO, Polis Analysis
Executive Director, Council for Countering
Online Disinformation
II. Fellowship
Public policy shapes every aspect of our lives, and its future depends on leaders from every sector.
The Polis Analysis Fellowship is a selective, fully funded programme for emerging leaders who want to understand complex policy challenges, broaden their perspectives, and contribute to meaningful change. Through expert-led seminars, collaborative discussions, and a diverse cross-sector community of peers from government, business, and civil society, Fellows gain the insight, networks, and confidence to influence public policy throughout their careers. With exclusive events, ongoing Academy opportunities, and recognised Fellowship certification, the programme offers the intellectual breathing space necessary for those committed to thoughtful leadership and public impact.
Online | Free | Flexible
III. Public Policy Fellowship
Influencing public policy requires understanding how decisions are really made.
The Public Policy Fellowship is an intensive professional development programme for established and aspiring leaders who want to move from understanding public policy to shaping it. Led by leaders in politics, academia, business, and civil society, the programme offers an insider’s perspective on the formal and informal dynamics of policymaking, from engaging ministers and select committees to developing persuasive policy proposals and strategic multi-medium communications. Through interactive workshops, simulations, project work, and sustained engagement with an exceptional network of Fellows and leading practitioners, Public Policy Fellows develop the skills, practical experience, and professional relationships needed to harness their talents and influence. Designed to complement the day-to-day lives of busy professionals, the Public Policy Fellowship delivers premium executive learning over six months without requiring you to step away from your career.
Hybrid - London & Online | ££££ |
Six months part time
