Learning and development for foster carers - Print version

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Welcome and introduction from the Director of Children’s and Education Services

Welcome to the Foster Carers Training, Learning and Development Brochure for 2025 to 2026.

I am delighted to announce the ongoing training and development offer to our foster carers. The Foster Care Learning and Development Brochure offers a comprehensive choice of courses; some are delivered by practitioners within the Fostering Service and others by external trainers who are experts in their field. You will also have access to the improved Flourish online training portal, where you can access a wide range of learning and development opportunities at your convenience.

I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge all of your hard work and support that you provide to our children in care. Becoming a foster parent is an amazing opportunity to give a child or young person the fresh start they need, and it takes a huge amount of courage and commitment to start your fostering journey. Our children in care are all individuals who have their own life stories, vulnerabilities and aspirations. Caring for a child in care is one of the most rewarding choices.

The relationship with a carer for a child in care very often makes the real difference to their lives. Coventry Children’s and Education Service values the crucial and skilful work of its Foster Carers, therefore, it is important to us to support them every step of the way.

Coventry Children’s and Education Services place children at the heart of everything we do. We pride ourselves on being a learning organisation and are proactive in helping both employees and our foster carers to develop their skills, knowledge, and experience. We are committed to providing a high-quality training programme that is accessible and relevant to all our foster carers.

You will note that some of the sessions will be delivered jointly with Supervising Social Workers, Children’s Social Workers, and staff across Children’s and Education Services. This is part of our commitment to deliver a ‘team around the child’ approach to all children in care. Coventry Family Valued places relational practice at the core of how we work with children, families, professionals and colleagues.  

The training courses have been arranged until March 2026 and reflect the outcomes of the recent Training Needs Analysis and mandatory training courses. They include a mix of face to face; online courses and an e-learning offer to vary your development opportunities. Please do attend any courses that are beneficial to you and speak with your Supervising Social Worker regularly about any further training and development needs.

I am proud of what we are achieving in Coventry with children and families we work with, and I am committed to strengthening Children’s and Education Services further on our journey to excellence.

Best wishes
Sukriti Sen

Training etiquette

There are several factors that contribute to a successful training session. Trainers must be punctual, present themselves in a professional manner, and create a comfortable environment that provides an equal opportunity for all learners. Equally the behaviours demonstrated by learners will have an outcome on the quality of the session. Trainers may agree these with the group at the start of the session but here are a few basic ground rules when attending a training programme in person or virtually.

  • Always be on time: Arrive early so that you are ready to start on time. If running late please email the trainer before time. Say hello to others when you join the session.
  • Environment: Be aware of your surroundings and ensure your set-up is favourable for learning. Always ensure the lightning is appropriate to clearly show your face. Avoid dark areas and backlight.
  • Distractions: Mute your microphone when not talking or contributing to the session. Use the chat box option to post any questions you may have. Have your mobile turned to vibrate or switched off. Avoid distractions while attending the session that may disrupt your learning
  • Tools to take notes: Have a notebook and pen, ready to write down key concepts and to keep you physically focused on the course.
  • Be focused: Bring an open mind and be prepared to engage in the learning. Ask questions and give others a chance to express themselves. Be respectful to the views of others. Please attend the full session for each course.

Training requirements for all foster carers

The national minimum standards for Foster Carers require all Carers to have a Personal Development Plan and participate in on-going learning and development. 

As a guideline it is expected that every Foster Carer participates in 20 hours of development activity every 12 months. This will often be through participating in the face to face and virtual learning outlined in this Learning and Development Brochure. 

However, development comes in many forms and can also include reading, research, mentoring and discussions. Carers can also access training in other roles which is transferable to their work as Carers. Your Supervising Social Worker will discuss with each of you in supervision learning needs and how these will be met.

Non-attendance at training courses

Whilst we understand that you will try your best to attend the relevant training opportunities, we also understand at times there may be emergencies throughout the year when you can’t attend a session that is booked. Please contact us at your earliest convenience, if you need to cancel, to enable us to offer this place to another delegate.

Please be advised that if you are booked on to a full day training course, you are expected to stay until the end of the day.

TSD (Training, Support and Development standards)

All Foster Carers are required to complete the Training, Support and Development Standards below within 12 months (18 months for Connected Persons Foster Carers) of becoming approved. The 7 Training, Support and Development Standards (TSD) form part of a Foster Carer’s induction into the role and then become part of your Continuing Professional Development. The TSD provide a national minimum benchmark that sets out what Foster Carers should understand throughout their career. Foster Carers must evidence all of the standards under each of the following seven headings.

In Coventry we ask Foster Carers to complete a portfolio to demonstrate their understanding as they start their fostering journey. You will have received this during your assessment. Your Supervising Social Worker will support you with completing the portfolio. Attending training is one way to demonstrate your learning and can assist you with completion.

In the following pages you will find the available courses (also see the gov.uk pages [https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/287954/foster_care_tsd_standards_guidance.pdf]):

  1. Understand the principles and values essential for fostering children and young people.
  2. Understand your role as a Foster Carer
  3. Understand health and safety, and healthy care
  4. Know how to communicate effectively
  5. Understand the development of children and young people
  6. Safeguarding children and young people (keep them safe from harm)
  7. Develop yourself

Course bookings

What training do I need?

Meet with your Supervising Social Worker/Manager and decide on your training and development needs, or refer to your Personal Development Plan in your Foster Carer Review.

Find and check courses

Check the course detail to ensure it meets your needs and there are available dates.

You must book on each course via the links provided as courses are subject to change and at times can be cancelled due to low numbers.

Face-to-Face/Virtual

Make a booking

Complete a booking through our booking system. [https://coventry.council.bookingbug.com/home/37043]

Virtual sessions

You should receive a link 3 days prior to the training to join a virtual session. Please contact us if you don’t receive a link. 

Training Options - E-Learning

Access e-learning

There is an extensive selection of e-learning courses. See Flourish Course flyer.

Please contact your supervising social worker to book on a course.

Facilities and Reasonable Adjustments

Coventry City Council is happy to consider any reasonable adjustments you may have. Please let us know in advance if there are any arrangements that need to be made on your behalf.

Online learning by Flourish

The course offerings by Flourish cater to a variety of individuals including Foster Carers, Special Guardians, and other Children's Services staff.

Courses vary in length and cover topics such as child development, therapeutic parenting, trauma, and attachment.

Registrations are facilitated through Supervising Social Workers or by emailing childrenstraining@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:childrenstraining@coventry.gov.uk].

The curriculum encompasses diverse areas including core knowledge and skills, safeguarding, therapeutic care, supporting adolescence, key foster care skills, understanding trauma impacts, working in health and social care, understanding neurodiversity and disabilities, keeping children safe online, diplomas, and additional training options. View all the courses available /Link to training portfolio Children's Services Online Course Bundle - Flourish [https://url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/XvMNCKOPYSErqQ9CMfkH5vBUy?domain=flourish.co.uk]

These courses aim to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to positively impact the lives of children and young people in their care. For a comprehensive overview and description of all courses, interested individuals can visit the provided links.

Click Learning Support support@click-learning.co.uk [mailto:support@click-learning.co.uk] Tel: 03300 560 555 – choose option - 1

 

Training calendar 2025 to 2026

April 2025

May 2025

June 2025

July 2025

September 2025

October 2025

November 2025

December 2025

January 2026

February 2026

March 2026

We are committed to supporting everyone in utilising training courses to develop their skills and knowledge to realise their full potential.

As part of our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion we are keen to encourage participation from all, therefore if you require any support to assist you in accessing these courses please don’t hesitate to contact us at: Childrenstraining@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:Childrenstraining@coventry.gov.uk]

Mandatory training

The national minimum standards for Foster Care set out the training that it is required for all Foster Carers to complete.  This is what we refer to as Mandatory Training.  It is required that each Foster Carer covers the subject areas listed below either through face to face training or via e-learning. Some Foster Carers may have prior learning which they believe covers the subject area which they should discuss with their Supervising Social Worker.

Once the Mandatory Training has been completed it needs to be refreshed at least every 3 years. 

You can find more details of each course in this Brochure. If you have any questions, please refer to your Supervising Social Worker for advice.

  1. Safeguarding Awareness for Foster Care [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/directory-record/57199/safeguarding-awareness-for-foster-care]
  2. Intro to Safer Caring & Health & Safety [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/directory-record/57195/intro-to-safer-caring-health-safety]
  3. Recording for Foster Carers [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/directory-record/57198/recording-for-foster-carers]
  4. Equality & Diversity [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/learning-development-foster-carers/learning-development-foster-carers-1/7]
  5. First Aid for Foster Carers [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/directory-record/57192/first-aid-for-foster-carers]
  6. Therapeutic Parenting and Behaviour Management [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/directory-record/57202/therapeutic-parenting-and-behaviour-management-]
  7. Supporting Education of Looked After Children [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/downloads/download/6612/supporting-the-education-of-looked-after-children]

Other resources

Coventry Safeguarding Children’s Partnership Training Programme

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and in particular protecting them from significant harm is dependent on the effective joint working between agencies and professionals that have different roles and expertise.

Access inter-agency training [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/cscptraining].

Coventry Virtual School

Coventry Virtual School is a service provided by dedicated professionals within the Children, Schools and Families Directorate whose work is to promote and co-ordinate educational support for Looked After Children and Care Leavers to succeed at nursery, school, college and university; wherever their place of learning.

Coventry Virtual School work in partnership with schools, social workers, carers and other professionals. To ensure all are working together successfully to help children achieve their potential.

Access Virtual School training [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/virtualschool].

UK Safer Internet Centre

The UK Safer Internet Centre has worked together with Islington Council to create leaflets for Foster Carers, Special Guardians and Adoptive Parents. The leaflets, which are free to download [http://www.saferinternet.org.uk/advice-centre/parents-and-carers/resources-parents-and-carers] and easy to print; include top tips and conversation starters to help Carers and parents get to grips with internet safety.

Coventry Adult education Service

The Coventry Adult Education Service offer a range of courses with 'fostering' in mind. 

If you are interested and would to know more, please contact: adulted-queries@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:adulted-queries@coventry.gov.uk].

Annual Conference

Save the date.

We are inviting all Special Guardians, Connected Persons, and mainstream foster carers to join us.

Annual Conference 13th May 2025  Topic " The Power of relationships" 

This year you asked us for the conference to take place virtually, and we have listened - the Carer's Conference 2025 will be delivered online.

The theme this year will be The Power of Relationships. More information will follow very soon.

 

For queries, please contact: Childrenstraining@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:Childrenstraining@coventry.gov.uk]

Research in Practice resources for carers

For almost 20 years Research in Practice has supported Children’s Services workers in their efforts to improve the lives of children and families. We aim to make research and evidence accessible and easy to apply, to enable safer decision-making and robust child-centred practice.

As a Foster Carer or Special Guardian, the support and nurturing you give to children is invaluable. We understand that your role is both challenging and rewarding so keeping up to date with shifting policy and practice, understanding research, gaining insights into what is working well and what’s not, can be extremely time consuming and often daunting. Research in Practice can support you with this.

As a Carer employed by Coventry you can gain free access to the Research in Practice website.

Resources

You can download any of our resources at no cost. All of the publications and tools are jargon-free and give practical examples of how to apply research messages to practice. Once signed up, you can access resources [https://www.researchinpractice.org.uk/].

Research in Practice also gives easy access to online learning modules which help you to understand the headline points on key topics.

 Once signed up, you can access the e-learning. [https://www.rip.org.uk/events-and-online-learning/e-learning-modules/]

Fostering and adoption minisite

In addition to resources available on the Research in Practice website, there is also a host of training resources and materials targeted at people working in fostering and adoption on our freely accessible minisite. [http://www.fosteringandadoption.rip.org.uk]

This website hosts key research messages on several relevant topics including:

  • Attachment theory and research
  • Child development
  • Early brain development and maltreatment
  • Early childhood trauma
  • Impacts of delayed decision making
  • Communicating effectively with children and young people
  • Placement stability and permanence
  • Managing risks and benefits of contact

Trainer profiles

Simon Booth - Breaking the Cycle

Simon Booth has been working in training for over 20 years offering group intervention to adults with learning difficulties and complex young people from a range of backgrounds. He has been an active member of the Youth Offending Service for over 13 years employed as a Case Manager, Trainer and Operational Manager. He has years of hands on experience in developing and delivering programmes to young people and adults with complex needs. Simon has been an Operational Manager for 5 years, managing high risk offenders and managing the CAMHS within the criminal justice service. Simon has also been a Foster Carer and a qualified Youth Worker for many years.

Simon currently trains Councils and National Organisations in courses which include: Professional Boundaries, Safeguards; Supervision and Development Assessments, Risk Management, Safeguarding, Safer Caring, Fostering Principles and Attachment, Self-harm and Suicide, Mental Health Awareness, Critical Reflection, Behavioural Management and Effective Communication, Person Centred Practice, Victim Awareness and Restorative Justice, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy.

Louisa McGivney

My journey of teaching children with special educational needs began when I was a specialist teacher in an advisory capacity as part of a Local Authority Autism Outreach Service. This involved providing specialist support and guidance to schools, parents, carers, practitioners and agencies, to ensure learners were given the opportunity to access an effective, meaningful and successful education.

My current role in Coventry is as a specialist advisory teacher for the Complex Communication Team and strategic lead for all training and development in Autism across the County. I am regularly seconded as an intermediary advocate for the Criminal Justice Service; involved in court cases involving children and young adults who are on the Autism spectrum. Firmly believing that inclusion is not simply a destination, but a journey that should be as exciting and fulfilling as possible for all children, by taking account of and responding to, children’s individual strengths, differences and needs.

 Helen Harper and Chantelle Davies

Journey/Practice experience: Combined we have extensive social work experience.  

Helen has been a longstanding practitioner in Coventry; from social worker right through to operational lead with a vast amount of experience and investment in our Children in Care and numerous years working for our adopted children.  

Chantelle has been qualified for a number of years, beginning her journey as a social worker in Leicestershire and joining Coventry’s help and protection team in 2019 before becoming a team manager in the children in care service in 2021, now also taking the lead supporting our children through adoption. 

Mandy Beaumont - Occupational Health

Mandy delivers this training for Occupational Health and runs her own First Aid Training Company - MEB Training and has been delivering First Aid Training since 2002.  Mandy has also worked for local Adult Education Services delivering NPLQ and First Aid since 1998. Mandy is a Sport Centre Manager at President Kennedy School and has worked there for over 30 years. She is also a pool lifeguard trainer assessor for RLSS and has done this for over 20 years. Recently Mandy has become a mentor so now helps the probationary Trainer Assessor also.

Mandy’s background is with Occupational Health delivering first aid training since 2003.

Julia Davis - Julia & Associates

Journey/Practice experience: CQSW,MA in Social Work, Diploma on Play Therapy, Further training in DDP and Theraplay, 

Practice as social worker with children and young people, play therapist with fostering/adoption/special guardian children and young people.

 Teaching:  Journey/Publications/Company profile/Area of interest: 

Training – Attachment and Trauma, Transitions, Therapeutic Parenting , Life-story work, Foundations for Attachment  

‘Preparing for Adoption’ 2015, JKP

Kim Chittem -Coordinator- Advanced Social Worker

Journey/Practice experience: Social Worker for over 14 years in various fields including residential care, child protection, neighbourhood teams, IFA and fostering service  

Sarah Ali and Blessing Mlalazi

Journey/Practice experience: Both trainers have extensive experience within different parts of Children Services and transferable skills to meet the needs of young people.  

Currently working as supervising social workers supporting foster carers.  
Teaching:  Area of interest:  
Diversity/inclusion/cultural sensitivity/race/religion/equality  

Safda Mahmood, Jennifer Novakovic 

Safda Mahmood - Solicitor and Advocacy Team Leader  
Jennifer Novakovic - Case Progression Manager/ Court Performance Manager  
Teaching:  Journey/Publications/Company profile/Area of interest: Children and Adult Procedures 

Elena Allen

Journey/Practice experience:  Advisory Teacher / Training Lead for Coventry Virtual School 

Qualified Teacher with experience in SEND  
Advisory Teacher for Coventry Virtual School with responsibility for supporting and challenging all those involved in the education of children in care.
I work in partnership with the team around the children and education settings to ensure children in care are supported to achieve their full potential    

Teaching:  Journey/Publications/Company profile/Area of interest: 
Experienced in primary teaching, teaching and supporting children with SEND 
Advisory teacher for Coventry Virtual School providing advice and support to education settings, social care and foster carers to support the education of children in care 

Ina Daugirdaité 

Journey/Practice experience: Child and Families Worker, Fostering Support team 

I am a qualified children, young people, and family practitioner. Before joining the fostering support team I worked with children and young people in residential homes and supported living. 

I am keen to help foster carers feel supported and connected to a wider network whilst navigating their fostering journey.

I am passionate about trauma-informed way of relating, and helping foster carers to develop their therapeutic parenting knowledge and skills. 

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