West Yorkshire Police do it. Grattan does it. Even the Church of England does it. They all send their rising stars on a nine-month-long course to get a better insight into the city and its movers and shakers.

In return, the organisations get back a more rounded individual who has a much better grip on what's what in Bradford.

The Common Purpose scheme started in Bradford in 1990 and will take on its 12th intake of students in September.

There are now about 320 people in the district who have undergone the training.

Graduates praise the programme which aims to give them a '360 degree briefing' on the city in which they live and work.

They talk of an unrivalled access to information, new contacts and fresh insights, and the know-how as well as the motivation to increase their contribution as active citizens.

Linda Crossley, senior programme director for Common Purpose in Bradford, explained: "The aim is to help make society work more effectively by bringing people together, and giving them the full picture - knowledge, contacts and insights - to do things differently."

This happens on a day release basis with the 30-odd participants getting together once a month for a day. Each day focuses on a different theme - such as education, or law and order - and the students learn through visits, for example to a school or prison; through briefings from high level contacts like judges and college principals; and through discussion.

Important speakers are encouraged to speak candidly on the understanding that the 'Chatham House Rules' apply. Comments made and information given at Common Purpose can be used in the outside world, but cannot be attributed.

Guidelines for people taking part state: "We encourage rigorous and challenging questioning, tempered by respect. In so doing, participants are demanding and persistent, rather than attacking, crushing or dismissive. They are sensitive to colleagues' needs for support when challenging or being challenged. The group ensures that none of its members is allowed to become isolated in expressing their view."

Students can be put forward by themselves or their bosses but must go through the selection process.

Mrs Crossley said that care was taken to ensure that each intake of students were a diverse group with a good mix of men and women, different racial backgrounds and from different workplaces. "You wouldn't want six accountants on one programme.

l More information about Common Purpose is available from (01274) 375554 or at www.commonpurpose.org.uk