Masterclass: paying for success in cross-sector partnerships
Session overview
We are delighted to offer a hands-on, in-person masterclass at the Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford. This is an opportunity to experience an award-winning method, in a workshop typically reserved for the Blavatnik School’s Executive Education programmes and Master of Public Policy students.
This interactive session uses GO Lab’s flagship teaching case—based on real events—to immerse participants in the practical dilemmas and solutions of public service reform. Through group work and facilitated discussion, the workshop offers a rare space for structured reflection, peer exchange, and deeper insight into the realities of delivering outcomes in complex environments and leading cross-sector partnerships
Who is this for?
This is perfect for those wanting to understand the fundamentals of social outcomes partnerships and paying for success in cross-sector partnerships, especially those newer to the tool. This masterclass is also worth considering for first-time SOC25 attendees looking to quickly get up to speed through an immersive, hands-on learning experience—so they can get the most out of the conference.
Learning outcomes
- Gain hands-on experience with outcomes-based contracting tools and approaches, and reflect critically on their application in diverse policy contexts.
- Build confidence in navigating complex, real-world policy challenges, including balancing evidence, stakeholder interests, and practical constraints.
- Strengthen decision-making skills in uncertain and politically sensitive environments, using a real case to explore trade-offs and unintended consequences.
Note: this session is not included as part of the Social Outcomes Conference tickets. This is an additional session run the day before the conference which individuals must book on to separately. This masterclass offers an especially useful opportunity for first-time attendees or anyone seeking a deeper grounding in outcomes based contracting and social outcomes partnerships before the conference begins.
Key information
- Date: Wednesday 3rd September 2025
- Time: 11:00-14:00 (with lunch included)
- Location: Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford
- Fee: £425 (inclusive of lunch)
The workshop will be led by Dr Mara Airoldi (Academic Co-Director, GO Lab) and Jess Reedy (Senior Policy Engagement Officer). Together, they bring experience in delivering training to policymakers and practitioners in the UK and internationally.
The case method is an immersive, discussion-based teaching approach that places you directly in the shoes of decision-makers. Instead of being told what to think, you’re presented with a real-world situation — often with competing priorities, political pressures, and incomplete information — and asked: “What would you do?”
Originally developed by Harvard – this method has been further developed by the award-winning team at the Blavatnik School of Government. GO Lab’s case study brings public policy challenges of social outcomes partnerships (SOPs) to life. It fosters deep, practical understanding of complex issues through guided discussion, critical thinking, and peer learning.
GO Lab's case study:
We’ve developed a case study specifically focused on social outcomes partnerships which is designed to help attendees:
- Grasp the practicalities, benefits, and complexities of outcomes-based commissioning
- Explore the opportunities, risks, and trade-offs involved in real delivery
- Apply learning (on what can be a complex topic) in a way that’s engaging, accessible, and highly interactive
This case was co-developed with the Blavatnik Case Centre for Public Leadership – the team behind Oxford’s world-leading public leadership training. It draws on best-in-class pedagogy and decades of public service experience.