The purpose of this leadership development program is for all staff to develop essential leadership skills no matter if they currently hold a formal leadership role, aspire to one, or want to build their ability to positively influence others in their current role. It is expected that at the end of the program, participants will have the confidence to apply their new leadership skills to their particular work situation. These workshops also serve as a foundation for further leadership learning and development at Baycrest and elsewhere.

The Leadership Essentials workshop series is based on the following competencies, based on the LEADS leadership framework. Each workshop offering is organized in one of the following three categories:

1. Lead Self: The best leaders have a good understanding of who they are and what they stand for. They are not afraid to leverage their strengths and manage their weaknesses in order to continually learn and develop.
2. Engage Others: The best leaders also know how to work with others throughout the organization ensuring alignment, mutual respect and collaboration.
3. Achieve Results: Effective leaders get tangible results that are sustained over time.