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Introduction module: The four capabilities (4C) leadership framework

The four capabilities (4C) leadership framework

The 4C leadership capability framework defines the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for leadership at all levels of children’s social care. Each capability is essential and interconnected, with each one supporting the next. Curiosity leads to clarity. Clarity helps teams manage complexity. Managing complexity builds capacity to improve quality and outcomes.

The 4Cs are:

  • maintaining curiosity  
  • providing clarity  
  • managing complexity  
  • expanding capacity 

The 4 capabilities shown as 4 separate sections in a circle. Capability 1 is maintaining curiosity, capability 2 is providing clarity, capability 3 is managing complexity and capability 4 is expanding capacity.

Frontline 4C Leadership Framework © 2024 by Frontline is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

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The resources have been developed by Frontline in collaboration with DfE.
Published: 30 January 2025
Last updated: 30 January 2025