Start with the capability needed and the people who must use it together. An individual joining an open programme gains a wider peer network and perspectives from other organisations. A bespoke organisational cohort can build shared practice around a common service or change programme. A place-based academy can bring several organisations into work on a challenge they share.
Consider the time available for applying the learning. A short introduction can establish language and open up new questions. A sustained cohort allows repeated cycles of inquiry, action, and review. Neither format compensates for a lack of sponsor attention or access to the work.
Ask what participants should be able to do afterwards, what evidence would demonstrate it, and who will support them between sessions. Include preparation and application time in the commitment. Compare the full cost of delivery and participation, rather than tuition alone.
PSTA programme pages describe the available routes and indicative scope and fees. A conversation about your participants, live issue, and intended timing allows us to develop a practical proposal. The final design follows the work and the capability you need to build.