Due to popular demand The Centre for Research in Early Childhood (CREC) is re-running its two-day training programme, Evidencing Outcomes and Measuring Impact, in the autumn. The course addresses what CREC has identified as a need for a systematic and rigorous way to evidence outcomes and results in settings. The programme also aims to help the practitioner to:
- Identify the parameters and features of a robust and manageable evaluation strategy for settings which informs self-evaluation within an agreed and robust network
- Increase the strategic and operational awareness of the professional and personal demands and skills involved in developing and implementing a coherent and rigorous evaluative strategy
- Explore how to ensure organisational development and improvement is evidence based.
Practitioners will also have the chance to discuss the national and local context for evidencing and tracking the impact of children’s services on outcomes and the requirements from Ofsted and other bodies as well as exchanging ideas with other delegates. Upcoming dates are 13 September, 15 October, 5 November and 6 December.
www.crec.co.uk
Kids, the charity which works with disabled children, young people and their families, offers a 42-module, e-learning suite that contains over 40 hours of learning designed to provide workforce development. The breadth of the course is very wide and the information is in-depth. Modules begin with coverage of issues such as health and safety, communicating and developing relationships with children and young people, progressing to areas such as project management, making the most of play, assistive technology and information sharing. There is instruction on PECS, Makaton, autism spectrum disorder and moving and handling, among many other areas.
Each module incorporates videos, reflective practice, research exercises and a multiple choice test at the end. Organisations can purchase an unlimited access package and licences can be arranged for individuals. www.kids.org.uk
The NDNA has launched three new online courses through its Early Years Development Zone to support birth to twos, two-year-olds and three to five-year-olds respectively, under the new EYFS.
The courses focus on the philosophy underpinning play, developmental milestones, ways to create a positive learning environment, understanding observation and progress checks.
Together the three courses give learners certificated accreditation for three hours of professional development. Courses cost £24 to members and £32 for non-members.
www.ndna.org.uk/quality-training
The British Council has launched a pay-as-you-go e-learning package of health and safety courses, including workplace health and safety, fire safety awareness, manual handling, health and safety for managers and environmental awareness. Once an employer has purchased a course they simply enter the names and emails of the employees to be trained and the system sends the individual an email with log-in details, taking them straight to the programme. A short multiple choice test ensures all the material has been understood and a certificate is downloadable on successful completion. Course fees operate on a sliding scale which come down to £10 for each individual when up to 50 courses are booked. www.britsafe.org/instantaccess..
Motivational trainer Joanna Pease promises to maximise the potential of any individual practitioner with one-to-one coaching in the workplace. Each delegate receives an ‘Early Years Professional MOT’ and regular follow ups for a year after initial training. www.joannapease.wordpress.com
Two day workshops provided by The Handsel Project in the autumn address show to support children with disabilities and sleep problems. The training outlines the mechanics of sleep patterns and examines the types of sleep disorders that can affect children with disabilities. enquiries@handselproject.org.uk
Laser Learning, part of the Childcare Company, continues to expand its range of short, online courses which are endorsed by CACHE. These now include Observing Children, Managing Behaviour, Self-Evaluation, Inclusion, Fulfilling the Role of the Key Person and Introduction to Safeguarding (L3); and Understanding Leadership and Management and First Time Leadership (L4). www.laserlearning.com
Kate Cairns Associates has unveiled its autumn programme of courses at venues in England, Scotland and Wales. The aim is to develop understanding of the ‘universal human experience of trauma and the attachment relationships that can promote resilience or lead to vulnerability’. Courses include Building Baby Brains; What adults do that promotes healthy brain development and Promoting Positive Behaviour – Enabling traumatised children to self-regulate effectively. www.katecairns.com
Riverside Training Company, which is linked to Riverside Childcare and Riverside Nannies & Mothers Help, provides training on how to update your CV and develop an effective interview technique. It also offers an e-learning home study course, Understand how to set up a Home Based Child Care Service, and Paediatric First Aid www.riversidechildcare.com/training
Aberdeen-based The Children’s House is the first training company in Scotland to be approved to deliver the new Professional Development Award (PDA) in Childhood Practice, which is at Level 9 on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework . Designed to raise standards of leadership and management, this is a workbased programme designed by the Scottish Qualifications Authority, based upon the Standard for Childhood Practice 2007, at undergraduate level. www.childrenshouse.org.uk
