Uptake for the Parents, Early Years and Learning (PEAL) programme is steadily gaining momentum as the EYFS is imminent. The original one-day course has been built on, with two further training programmes focusing on strategic development and becoming a PEAL trainer.
Since funding for free training ceased in April, PEAL has fallen within the remit of the National Children's Bureau and training is now accessed via local authorities. There is scope for sessions to be tailored to local needs.
For practitioners who missed out on the free training in 2006-07, and who want to develop their expertise within the sharper focus of the EYFS, the two-day course providing both the introduction and guidance on how to cascade the training is both insightful and practical.
Part one looks at the underpinning research, the nature of relationships with parents, how to overcome barriers to involvement and examples of successful practice.
The second day examines how this work can be carried forward and disseminated more widely and looks at implications for resources.
Throughout the programme, key elements of the PEAL model - authentic relationships, communication and partnership - are examined and related to current research into what works best and why. The PEAL reader, included in the free resource pack, provides an overview of the training day and background on the research.
Heather Goodwin, training and administration co-ordinator, says, 'The second part is relevant for those working in children's centres who want to roll out parent activities locally and also for providers who want a cohesive approach in their settings, or across their sites.'
The final option, which enables PEAL participants to become trainers themselves, deals with people's different learning styles and ensuring the sessions meet the needs of a range of practitioners, from experienced children's centre managers to new, unqualified entrants.
Ms Goodwin urges practitioners to check on course availability with their local authority. 'We are also organising three stand-alone events in November, February and March, covering London and Manchester, and bursaries are available.'
Further information: www.peal.org.uk.
