---
title: Learning and Development Programme – Training
description: "**Learning & Development Programme – keeping the spark of professional growth alive** Great fostering is equal parts heart and skill. The heart brings empathy; skill comes from *planned, continuous learning*. National Minimum Standard 20 requires every foster carer to “undertake…"
url: "https://handbook.co.uk/docs/learning-and-development-programme-training/"
updated: "2025-07-13"
category: Foster Carer Handbook
---

# Learning and Development Programme – Training

**Learning & Development Programme – keeping the spark of professional growth alive**

Great fostering is equal parts heart and skill. The heart brings empathy; skill comes from *planned, continuous learning*. National Minimum Standard 20 requires every foster carer to “undertake the training and development they need to carry out their role effectively.” Positive Aspirations translates that duty into a clear pathway from first enquiry to seasoned mentor.

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**1 | Why learning never stops**

Training does three things:

1. **Sharpens practice.** Each new course or webinar adds a tool that makes daily care safer and richer for children.
2. **Keeps you legal.** Laws, guidance and research evolve; staying current protects you from preventable allegations.
3. **Fans your own spark.** Discovering new ideas re-energises you and models lifelong learning for young people watching.

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**2 | Pre-approval learning – building the foundations**

- **Skills to Foster** group course – a mandatory, interactive introduction to attachment, behaviour, equality and safer caring.
- **Five core e-learning / Zoom modules** (must all be completed *before* Panel):
  1. Paediatric First Aid
  2. Positive Parenting
  3. Safeguarding & Safer Care
  4. Health & Hygiene – caring for the whole child
  5. Health & Safety in the fostering home

These courses remain valid for three years; a refresher is due on the third anniversary of completion.

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**3 | The first year – induction & evidence**

Immediately after approval you sign the **Foster Carer Agreement** and begin the Induction Programme:

- **Induction Checklist** – issued by Referral & Placements plus your SSW.
- **Induction Workshop** – deeper dive into recording, finance, education, and SPARK. Extended family and *Enhanced Support* members are encouraged to attend; those offering respite must also complete the five mandatory modules above.
- **Training, Support & Development Standards (TSDS)** – a workbook of evidence to be completed within 12 months, guided by your SSW.

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**4 | Personal Development Plan (PDP) – your learning map**

At your first post-approval supervision the SSW and you co-write a PDP:

- **Core refreshers** every three years (the five modules).
- **Three additional CPD activities per year** – minimum, but aim higher if time allows.
- **Child-specific learning** – e.g., Foetal Alcohol Spectrum, trauma-informed schooling, British Sign Language.
- **Future ambitions** – mentoring cadet carers, presenting at conference, Level-4 diploma.

The PDP is reviewed each supervision, updated formally at the annual review.

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**5 | Ways to learn – pick your blend**

| **Structured** | **Informal** |
| --- | --- |
| Internal classroom or Zoom courses | Shadow an experienced carer on contact transport |
| External conferences / Local Authority workshops | Read a book or podcast and write a reflection |
| Accredited distance learning | Keep a reflective diary analysed with SSW |
| 1:1 coaching in your home | Peer-mentoring at support group |
| Webinars & e-learning portal | Observe a CAMHS session (with consent) |

Struggling with IT? Book an office slot or ask the Training Manager for hands-on help. Accessibility tools (captioning, large print) are available.

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**6 | Recording and recognition**

Add certificates, reflection notes or shadowing logs to your **online training portfolio** (access via your agency-specific link). The portfolio feeds directly into your annual review and Panel paperwork, demonstrating continuing competence.

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**7 | Learning for the support network**

Anyone in your *Enhanced Support* circle who provides overnight care must—before the first stay—complete the same five mandatory modules and repeat them every three years. Shorter, themed workshops (e.g., “Attachment for Grandparents”) run each quarter.

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**8 | Continuous Professional Development (CPD) – keep the flame burning**

There is no set hourly quota, but the expectation is *ongoing growth*. Aim to blend mandatory refreshers, at least three elective pieces a year, and spontaneous learning triggered by the needs—and sparks—of the children you care for.

**Need inspiration?** Browse the monthly Training Newsletter, talk to your SSW, or email [**training@positiveaspirations.org**](mailto:training@positiveaspirations.org) for bespoke suggestions.

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**Key message:** training is not homework imposed by the agency; it is the fuel that keeps your practice safe, creative and resilient. Nurture your own spark of curiosity and children will learn to nurture theirs. For full details see the **Training & Development Policy** or speak to the Training Manager.