Foster carer training
We are resuming face to face delivery for mandatory training from 17 May 2021, ensuring all Government guidelines are being adhered to. Due to this face to face training scheduled up to the 21 June 2021 will run with limited places. Please do not turn up to a course without confirmation of booking as we can not exceed room capacity. If you have any queries please email wdsupport@gateshead.gov.uk
Caring for children can be a demanding role. The opportunity to receive regular, high quality training is very important in supporting carers to undertake the tasks required in caring for children, some of whom may be exhibiting difficult and challenging behaviour. Workforce Development have a strong commitment to providing several training opportunities each year which build on the skills first discussed during the Skills to Foster preparation course.
Over the year the training programmes will be developed, as priorities change, or demand increases. It is recommended that you regularly check this page for updates.
Please see the below table for both face to face and virtual training being held in April, May and June available to book via iTrent.
Time | Room | Course | Trainer(s) | |
28 April | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Virtual | David Young and Rachel Green - NEST | |
30 April | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Virtual | 
The Road to Somewhere - Becoming Trauma Aware [692.98KB] | David Young and Rachel Green - NEST |
6 May | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Virtual | Angela Dodd/Lisa Lannen | |
10 May | 9.45am to 2.15pm | WD 2 | Clare Cavanagh/Lisa Lannen | |
11 May | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Virtual | Understanding Self Harm - BEING RESCHEDULED | Maria Lavelle |
19 May | 9.30am to 2.30pm | WD 1 | Safer Caring - CANCELLED | Lisa Lannen |
25 May | 9.30am to 12.30pm | WD 1 | Lisa Lannen | |
27 May | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Virtual | Liza Lomax | |
10 June | 9.45am to 1.45pm | WD 2 | Clare Cavanagh/Lisa Lannen | |
18 June | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Virtual | David Young and Rachel Green - NEST | |
22 June | 9.30am to 2.30pm | WD 1 | Lisa Lannen | |
23 June | 9.45am to 12:45pm | WD 2 | | David Young and Rachel Green - NEST |
28 June | 9.30am to 1.30pm | WD 1 | Clare Cavanagh/ Lisa Lannen | |
29 June | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Virtual |
| Liza Lomax |
30 June | 9.45am to 2.15pm | WD 2 | Clare Cavanagh/ Lisa Lannen |
Additional Safeguarding courses can be found on our Safeguarding and Community Safety training page
In addition to face to face and virtual training, foster carers can undertake e-learning courses.
The
The foster caring training requirements document [420.19KB] will remind you of the mandatory and core training requirements and the number of training courses, support groups and briefings you are expected to participate in annually.
The training directory is currently being updated and will be available here within the next few weeks.
Training, Support and Development (TSD) Standards
All new foster carers are required to complete their Training, Support and Development (TSD) Standards for Foster Carers portfolio prior to their first review approximately 10 months.
These Standards are a national benchmark and give foster carers the recognition they deserve for the role they play. We know you will want to demonstrate your professionalism and achieve these standards and we believe in supporting you to achieve them. Where applicable, courses within the directory will indicate which TSD Standards are covered within the training session.
Once social distancing restrictions are lifted there will be a number of TSD support groups running throughout the year to provide guidance on completing your work book. In addition, your Supervising Social Worker will be able to provide guidance and support whilst you are completing it.
