Training and development opportunities for early years and childcare practitioners
Please view some of the latest training coming up for early years and childcare practitioners in Devon.
You will need a DEL training account in order to book onto the DEL training. If you do not have a DEL account please email: eywd@devon.gov.uk with your full name, a unique email address, the name of the setting where you are currently employed and your job role.
You will need an account in order to book onto training opportunities from the Devon Education Services shop. Register for an account here: Shop registration page | DES (devoneducationservices.co.uk)
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Safeguarding and child protection training
(NEW) Safeguarding and Welfare Forums
These forums offer practical advice and support with the aim of providing you with more confidence to carry out your role. The forums will help to keep the early years and childcare sector up to date with safeguarding and welfare elements of the early years foundation stage.
Open to all early years and childcare practitioners including Designated Safeguarding Leads and Deputy Safeguarding Leads that work with children in an early years and/or out of school role.
Forums are offered on a termly basis (two dates per term). These remote sessions are accessed using Microsoft Teams. You will receive a Teams link upon booking. Each session will be delivered by an EYCA.
(these sessions replace the provider network and safeguarding forums)
Dates:
- Tuesday 14th November 2023 (6.30pm- 8.30pm)
- Wednesday 15th November 2023 (4pm – 6pm)
- Wednesday 6th March 2023 (10am – 12pm)
- Tuesday 19th March 2023 (6.30pm- 8.30pm)
Book your place via the DEL training website.
Safeguarding Children Awareness (Group 2)
This course aims to raise awareness of the need for child protection and to have a knowledge and understanding of relevant procedures. These workshops are suitable for all those working in the early years and childcare (level 2).
It can be undertaken either as eLearning or a virtual session. Needs to be refreshed every 3 years.eLearning course:
Virtual dates:
- Thursday 28th September 2023 (6pm – 9pm)
- Wednesday 22nd November 2023 (9.30am – 12.30pm)
- Friday 19th January 2024 (9.30am – 12.30pm)
Book your place via the DEL training website.
Multi-Agency Safeguarding and Child Protection (Group 3 Core)
This course is suitable for staff and volunteers who work with children, young people, families and parents or carers where they are in a position to identify signs of child abuse or neglect and who may then be asked to contribute to assessing, planning or intervening and reviewing the needs of the child and parenting capacity where there are safeguarding concerns. This course is also suitable for Designated Safeguarding Officers and Deputies.
NEW SUMMER DATES:
(Please note as of January 2023 this training is one date/session not 2 as previous sessions)
- Mon 13th November 2023 (9.15am – 2.45pm) – virtual session
- Mon 27th November 2023 (9.15am – 2.45pm) – virtual session
- Mon 11th December 2023 (9.15am – 2.45pm) – virtual session
As well as attending a virtual session, you will need to complete two eLearning modules and a quiz.
Fully funded for Designated Safeguarding Lead / Deputy.
Book your place via the DEL training website.
Early Years Child Protection Refresher (Group 3) training
This refresher course is for delegates who have already undertaken the DCFP Multi-Agency Safeguarding and Child Protection (Group 3 Core) training and need to update their knowledge. This refresher training is for people with child protection responsibilities e.g. Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputy.
The training will be delivered via x2 eLearning modules, a digital quiz and a 3.5 hour taught virtual session via Microsoft Teams or face to face session.
Dates for virtual course:
- Tuesday 10th October 2023 (9.30am – 1pm)
- Tuesday 5th December 2023 (9.30am – 1pm)
Book your place via the DEL training website.
Dates for face-to-face course:
- Saturday 7th October 2023 (9.30am – 3.30pm) – Teignbridge Children’s Centre, N.Abbot
- Thursday 8th February 2024 (9.30am – 2.30pm) – Exeter / Cullompton area (venue tbc)
Fully funded for Designated Safeguarding Lead / Deputy.
Book your place via the DEL training website.
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) training:
LADO Teams training:
We now offer live Teams training every 2 months facilitated by a LADO. This is the preferred way for you to develop your knowledge and understanding about the LADO service. This will give you an opportunity to meet some of the team and to ask any questions.
The LADO training is aimed at all staff and volunteers who are in regular contact with children and young people.
Dates:
- 25 Sept 2023 (3.45pm – 4.45pm) – Teams meeting
- 24 Nov 2023 (2pm – 3pm) – Teams meeting
- 25 Jan 2024 (3.45pm – 4.45pm) – Teams meeting
- 18 March 2024 (10am – 11am) – Teams meeting
Book your place via the DEL training website.
Fully funded.
LADO Video learning:
After watching a 25-minute video there is a short quiz that is designed to test your knowledge.
The course will provide you with an understanding of the role of the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO); it explains what should be referred to the LADO and, importantly, what should not be referred.
This course is for anyone who works with or cares for children and young people within Devon. It is fully funded.
The LADO video learning is accessed from the DEL training website.
Fully funded.
Levels of Need Workshop
Multi-agency tool to help everyone who works with children, young people and families across the partnership.
Early help is the most effective, evidence-based way to prevent harm to children; working with families at an early stage helps to prevent problems form escalating. Never has it been more important to get it right in Devon to help families recover from the impact of the pandemic and to build resilience for other challenges that lay ahead.
Dates:
- Dates tbc
Fully funded.
Book your place via the DEL training website.
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Paediatric first aid / health related training
Health Protection in Early Years and Educational Settings – webinar
The UKHSA South West Health Protection are running webinars for health protection in early years and educational settings.
The sessions will cover infection prevention and control and outbreak management.Dates:
- 21 September 4-5pm
- 16 November 4-5pm
Fully funded
Book your place here: Health Protection in Early Years and Educational Settings Registration, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
Paediatric first aid training
This 12 hour course is consistent with the criteria set out in Annex A of the EYFS 2021.
This course comprises of:
- 6 hours independent study (eLearning)
- 6 hours skills assessment (in person; small groups of 12 maximum)
Dates of skills session:
- Sat 23rd September 2023 (9.30am – 4.30pm) – Amory Centre, South Molton
- Sat 18th November 2023 (9.30am – 4.30pm) – Teignbridge Children’s Centre, Newton Abbot
Cost: £75 per person
Book your place via the DEL training website.
Please note – you will need to make your payment first before returning to the course page to book onto your preferred course date. You may wish to check there are available places before you pay and book on, please contact us: eywd@devon.gov.uk
Oral Health Improvement training (virtual)
Oral health is now included in the EYFS, and with the 2019 statistics that almost one in four children aged 5 have experienced tooth decay, the Oral Health improvement team are offering a FREE two hour training session. This train the trainer style training will give you the knowledge and confidence to explore oral health regularly within your setting.
Training is aimed at those working with children aged 0-11 years.
The training will cover:
- The consequences of poor oral health
- Diet and its impact on the dentition
- Causes, symptoms and how to prevent tooth decay
- Techniques and support for helping people maintain good oral hygiene
Date:
- Tues 26th September 2023 (6.30pm- 8.30pm) – Virtual (Microsoft Teams)
Fully funded
Book your place via the DEL training website.
Paediatric bladder and bowel care service training and education
Dealing with continence problems in early years’ settings and schools can be difficult. Toilet training is happening later now than in previous generations and schools report that increasing numbers of children are not toilet trained on admission.
Want to learn more about how children can be supported with this area of their development?
Training sessions can be delivered, subject to availability, on a Tues, Weds or Thurs.
- Face to face – daytime and twilight
- Virtual – twilight and evenings
To book, or for more information please contact Debbie Richards, Paediatric Bladder and Bowel Care Specialist Nursery Nurse on 01392 208044 or email: drichards2@nhs.net
Fully funded
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(NEW) Childminder Drop-ins
(NEW) Childminder Drop-ins
An opportunity for childminders to meet representatives of the Early Years and Childcare Service to discuss current issues and receive support for learning and development, safeguarding and welfare.
Sessions will be arranged by Early Years and Childcare Advisors (EYCAs).
(these sessions replace the Childminder Forums)
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Moving and Handling training
Moving and handling of children with physical difficulties – Initial (in-person) (early years)
This course is provided by Devon Education Services. Early years and childcare places may be part-funded if eligible.
In-person theory and practical moving and handling initial training (for those people who have not trained in moving and handling previously). Suitable for any staff working with a child or young person who has physical/movement difficulties (not suitable for those working with children who have emotional or behavioural difficulties requiring physical interventions.)
Subjects covered:
• Legal Requirements
• Risk Assessment
• Handling Plan
• Intimate Care
• Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan
• How to Keep Your Back Safe
• Handling Aids
• Practical TechniquesDates:
- Tues 17th October 2023 (9am – 3.30pm) – The Watermark, Ivybridge
- Tues 7th November 2023 (9am – 3.30pm) – Coaver Club, County Hall, Exeter
- Weds 15th November 2023 (9am – 3.30pm) – Caddsdown Business Centre, Bideford
Cost: £30*
*If you work in an early years or childcare setting where there is a child registered to start or is currently in attendance, who has a physical need that requires support with moving, you may be able to access funding subsidy through the Devon County Council Early Years & Childcare Service for this training course. If you are eligible you will be required to pay a small contribution through the DEL Digital Learning training website and the Early Years & Childcare Service will fund the remainder of the cost. Please contact: eywd@devon.gov.uk to see if you are eligible to access a subsidised place. Please provide the following information: name and DOB of the child, the setting they are attending or due to start, name, job role and email address of practitioner wishing to attend and a brief description of the physical need of the child. You must make book on to the course and pay your contribution through the DEL training website before the course, otherwise Devon Education Services will invoice you for the full cost of the course.
Book through the DEL training website.
Moving and handling of children with physical difficulties – Refresher (in-person) (early years)
This course is provided by Devon Education Services. Early years and childcare places may be part-funded if eligible.
In-person theory and practical moving and handling refresher training (for those people who have previously undertaken the moving and handling initial training – must have been within the past 12-18 months though or full initial training will be required again). Suitable for any staff working with a child or young person who has physical/movement difficulties (not suitable for those working with children who have emotional or behavioural difficulties requiring physical interventions.)
Subjects covered:
• Legal Requirements
• Risk Assessment
• Handling Plan
• Intimate Care
• Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan
• How to Keep Your Back Safe
• Handling Aids
• Practical TechniquesDates:
- Weds 18th October 2023 (9am – 12pm) – The Watermark, Ivybridge
- Thurs 9th November 2023 (9am – 12pm) – County Hall, Exeter
- Thurs 9th November 2023 (12.30pm – 3.30pm) – County Hall, Exeter
- Thurs 16th November 2023 (9am – 12pm) – Caddsdown Business Centre, Bideford
- Thurs 16th November 2023 (12.30pm – 3.30pm)- Caddsdown Business Centre, Bideford
Cost: £20*
*If you work in an early years or childcare setting where there is a child registered to start or is currently in attendance, who has a physical need that requires support with moving, you may be able to access funding subsidy through the Devon County Council Early Years & Childcare Service for this training course. If you are eligible you will be required to pay a small contribution through the DEL Digital Learning training website and the Early Years & Childcare Service will fund the remainder of the cost. Please contact: eywd@devon.gov.uk to see if you are eligible to access a subsidised place. Please provide the following information: name and DOB of the child, the setting they are attending or due to start, name, job role and email address of practitioner wishing to attend and a brief description of the physical need of the child. You must make book on to the course and pay your contribution through the DEL training website before the course, otherwise Devon Education Services will invoice you for the full cost of the course.
Book through the DEL training website.
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Portage Workshop
Portage Workshop – a Small Steps Approach to Learning for Children with SEND
The Portage Workshop is an introduction to the Portage Approach to working with children with additional needs and their families. The workshop is suitable for anyone interested in finding out more about the Portage model, including early years practitioners, therapists and parents.
This 2 day workshop will look at ways in which to support both a child with special educational needs and their family. The principles and strategies discussed are easily transferable to the early years setting. Central to the course are the ‘Portage Principles’ and the ‘Three Circle Model of Portage’.
Dates:
The workshop will run over 2 days and will be delivered face to face.
- Day 1: Thursday 28th September 2023 (9.30am – 3.30pm) – Newcourt Community Centre, Exeter
- Day 2: Thursday 5th October 2023 (9.30am – 3.00pm) – Newcourt Community Centre, Exeter
Cost:
The cost is £50 per person*
*children’s centre staff – please do not make payment, please contact: eywd@devon.gov.uk in the first instance.
Book your place via DEL training website
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Funding training
How to complete the Autumn Headcount / Amendment Tasks
Have you recently taken on responsibility for using the Provider Portal or need a refresher?
The Early Years Funding Team will be running virtual training sessions on how to complete your Autumn Headcount and Amendment tasks. We will also give a demonstration on how to use the Provider Portal.
Sessions will be held using Microsoft Teams. Please click on a link below to join a session, there is no requirement to pre-book a place on either of these sessions.
Dates:
- Wednesday 13th September 2023 : 11.00 am – 12.30 pm – Click here to join the meeting
- Wednesday 20th September 2023 : 6.30 pm – 8.00 pm – Click here to join the meeting
Fully funded.
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Devon Education Services training (early years consultants' training
Early Years – New to SENDCo (online)
This Early Years SENDCo training provides an introduction to the role of setting SENDCo. The course is for those who may be new to the SENDCo role or for practitioners as a refresher. The setting SENDCo is an important leadership role, with key responsibilities to ensure that the best possible educational outcomes are achieved for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Date:
- 21 September 2023 (9.30am – 12pm)
Cost: £27.50 (+VAT)
Book your place via the Devon Education Services shop.
Early Years – Supporting 2 year olds
A child’s earliest year from their birth to the time they reach statutory school age, are crucial. All the research shows that this stage of learning and development matters more than any other.”
The course will develop your knowledge of how to support learning and development for two-year-olds, offering practical ideas to develop high-quality provision. It will explore ways of creating a successful environment for two-year-olds and enable practitioners to confidently identify any two-year-olds at risk of delay through the assessment process including the progress check.
Date:
26th September 2023 (9.30am – 12pm)
Cost: £27.50 (+VAT)
Book your place via the Devon Education Services shop.
Leading the learning in the EYFS
This course will support setting leaders to understand their role in implementing the EYFS statutory learning and development requirements
Please note: This training is not suitable for those settings and schools inspected under the School Inspection framework
Date:
- 28th September 2023 (9.30am – 12pm)
Cost: £27.50 (+VAT)
Book your place via the Devon Education Services shop.
Letters and Sounds
This training will explore the development of early phonics in pre-reception settings, with a reference to the original Letters and Sounds Phase 1 materials. This will include examples of opportunities for developing phonological awareness through the routines and rhythms of the day.
Date: 3rd October 2023 (9.30am – 12pm)
Cost: £27.50 (+VAT)
Book your place via the Devon Education Services shop.
AET Making Sense of Autism – Early Years (online)
Basic awareness training for all those engaging with children in early years settings. This includes teaching and support staff, office and ancillary staff, caterers, caretakers, transport staff and governors.
Date: 11th October 2023 (9.30am – 12pm)
Cost: £35 (+VAT)
Book your place via the Devon Education Services shop.
Early Years SENDCo Forums
Join your Early Years Consultants and keep up to date with current early years SEND issues and developments. Participate in network discussions with other SENDCos
Date:
- 16th October 2023 (6pm – 8pm)
- 17th October 2023 (1.30pm – 3.30pm)
- 18th October 2023 (4pm – 6pm)
Cost: Fully funded
Book your place via the Devon Education Services shop.
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Early Years Foundation Stage Conference 2023
Early Years Foundation Stage Conference 2023: Working together and making a difference
Giving every child access to great learning and development opportunities in the early years is crucial to combatting education inequality: gaps in development between children from disadvantaged homes and their more affluent peers require early identification and intervention if they are to be swiftly addressed.
Chief Executive Officer of the Education Endowment Foundation, Professor Becky Francis CBEWith this in mind, our annual early years conference will explore how we can make a difference for all children in our settings and schools to give them the best life chances.
Announcing three of our keynote speakers:
- Prof Sam Wass – a child psychologist and neuroscientist who is an expert in child concentration and child stress
- Kate Moxley – an early years (EY) consultant, trainer, and speaker specialising in wellbeing and mental health. Founder of the Wellness for All training company and a Mental Health First Aid England Instructor
- Joss Cambridge-Simmons – Childcare specialist and nanny (manny) of the year 2022. Joss is taking modern childcare to the next level and reframing masculinity.
Who should attend?
- Early years practitioners
- leaders and managers in settings and schools
- Childminders
- EYFS teachers and teaching assistants
- Primary and nursery headteachers and senior leaders
- Early years governors
- Anyone else interested in learning about early years practice and provision
Date: Thursday 5th October 2023 (9am – 4pm) at Sandy Park, Exeter
Book your place now: £125 (+VAT)
Book your place via the Devon Education Services website.
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eLearning
We have a range of eLearning courses available for you to access via the DEL training website, many of which are fully funded: Del: Early Years eLearning (learningpool.com)