York Regional Police members develop emotional fortitude together
The Mastery Academy, new to YRP, teaches members how to be the best versions of themselves and work more cohesively with their colleagues
You need to be able to lead yourself before you can lead others.
This is the concept behind Mastery Academy, a four-day, three-night professional development course at an isolated location, where York Regional Police members focus on developing stronger self-awareness, emotional intelligence and resilience.
New to YRP in 2024, Mastery Academy grew out of Breakthrough, an organizational culture transformation, which identified the need to develop empathetic, collaborative leaders, provide members with development opportunities regardless of rank or role, and perpetuate a positive organizational culture.
The program is geared both towards members seeking promotion and leadership opportunities, along with any member wanting to undergo professional and personal growth.
“We believe that healthy, happy and engaged members are the building blocks of a highly-evolved, thriving police service,” said Kathleen MacDonald, Executive Director of Professionalism, Leadership and Inclusion, which oversees leadership training and our non-compulsory Member Development training.
MacDonald continued, “This program works hand-in-hand with the wellness initiatives in our organization, enriching the psychological, physical, spiritual and social health of our members. If we’re taking care of ourselves, and we’re able to be the best versions of ourselves, it will impact how we show up at work and how we impact the community.”
“We really want to take a look at how people show up in difficult situations and deal with conflict.”
Mastery Academy Facilitator Julie Banic
Beyond the intensive 40-hour course, which focuses on managing stress and strong emotions, maintaining emotional health and undertaking personal growth, participants complete homework assignments, engage in a 10-hour post-course follow-up day, and take part in monthly post-course meetings with their fellow program graduates to create an ever deeper understanding of concepts learned.
According to program facilitator Julie Banic, “We focus a lot on self-awareness and self-reflection.”
In addition to the self-focused curriculum, participants learn about conflict resolution, clear communication and working more cohesively as teams.
During the course, members must work together to perform a frustrating task in adverse conditions.
“We really want to take a look at how people show up in difficult situations and deal with conflict,” said Banic.
Interpersonal conflict can impact operational efficiency, retention and morale, but psychological research shows programs emphasizing social connections and team bonding can improve workplace relations. Similarly, initiatives focused on preventive mental health care can reduce absenteeism.
“The cost per member of the Mastery Academy is approximately $1,700,” said MacDonald. “If a member takes 3.5 fewer sick days throughout their career, the program pays for itself.”
Beyond the course, self-mastery concepts are now being taught to sworn officers throughout their careers, and are interwoven into leadership training at every level of the organization.
