Adopting an Effective Approach to Future Strategic And Operational Curriculum Planning | AELP
2025-04-29 09:30 - 12:30 (Europe/London) | Online
Overview

Supporting learners in achieving success across assessments and EPA requires a thoughtful and strategic approach that goes beyond standard preparation. Effective coaching, individualised readiness techniques and stress management strategies are integral to equipping learners with the skills and confidence they need to excel.

This interactive workshop explores the principles of effective coaching and preparation, combining evidence-based methodologies with practical tools for assessment success. It delves into the nuances of EPA requirements and broader assessment frameworks, identifies common barriers faced by learners and outlines actionable strategies to build resilience, competence and readiness for a range of assessment scenarios.

By designing targeted preparation plans and integrating structured support strategies, educators can enhance learner outcomes, improve organisational pass and completion rates, and ensure alignment with quality standards and expectations.

Objectives

This webinar will cover:

Formulating and implementing strategies to improve assessment pass rates, EPA success and overall completion of learning programmes.

The impact of exam stress on learner performance and strategies to manage and effectively reduce negative influences;

Best practices in coaching and assessment preparation to build learner confidence, competence and readiness;

EPA requirements and broader assessment expectations to inform tailored preparation plans;

Designing and implementing personalised, actionable strategies to improve learner outcomes, success rates and resilience building;

Defining areas for personal development and growth to provide effective coaching support;

Formulating and implementing strategies to improve assessment pass rates, EPA success and overall completion of learning programmes.

Facilitator

Christine Edwards QTLS, Creating Excellence

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Using AI (Artificial Intelligence) - FIN Working Group
2025-04-29 14:00 - 15:00
Welcome to our FIN Working Group to discuss using AI to support and enhance learner progress review.Could AI be the answer to improving the recording of progress reviews? This group will collaborate to discuss the current use and future potential of embracing artificial intelligence into our practice to improve efficiency and practice. With so many progress reviews carried out online, could the current the challenges of effectively capturing and summarising conversations in reviews and the potential of AI transcription be a game changer?

The session will be led by Kerry Boffey who has been working with a number of providers to try out some of the popular AI tools. If you are interested in sharing your experiences of AI or want to find out more, this working group is a great opportunity to get involved.

If you require any support with booking please contact info@fin-online.org.uk

Events – Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (fin-online.org.uk)

FREE WEBINAR - FIN DISCOVERY SESSION - WITH OFSTED INSPECTION DATA AND TOP TIPS
2025-04-30 10:00 - 11:00
Join us for an informal session hosted by Kerry Boffey, our founder and former Ofsted Inspector. Kerry will share some updates on inspections with some top tips. This is also an opportunity to find about the Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (FIN) and how your organisation could benefit and answer any questions you may have. Kerry will also provide attendees with an insight into the guidance and knowledge members have access to. We look forward to meeting you.

If you require any support with booking please contact info@fin-online.org.uk

Events – Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (fin-online.org.uk)

Apprenticeship compliance fundamentals and what this means for your role
2025-05-01 14:00 - 2025-05-08 15:30 | Online
Everyone involved in apprenticeship delivery should understand the fundamentals of apprenticeship compliance.

Whether you’re involved in training, curriculum design, quality assurance, employer engagement or administration – understanding what ESFA compliance means for your role is crucial in helping the organisation to draw down the right funding and mitigate risks.

Designed around the latest version of the funding rules, this three-part series is designed to introduce all apprenticeship staff to the core apprenticeship rules and where their role fits in the compliance journey.

Part 1 will look at the typical apprentice journey, the core rules that matter and common solutions seen, including the importance of the little details and core parts of the evidence pack.

Part 2 will look at common errors and build an understanding of risk awareness as part of a transparent compliance culture.

Part 3 will open the floor to core questions and discussions of best practice.

This series will help you to:

Understand the core compliance rules for Apprenticeships
Understand how they fit into the typical apprentice journey
Know how funding works and what this means for your role
Keep an eye out for common errors
How to mitigate funding risks

About your session

David Lockhart-Hawkins, SDN’s funding and compliance expert will facilitate this session.
After working in the sector for over 20 years, David has supported hundreds of providers to establish effective compliance systems. His in-depth understanding of funding and wider apprenticeship delivery gives him a unique insight into compliance across the organisation.

SDN’s CPD is drawn from its work with over 1,000 apprenticeship providers and thousands of staff – giving you a unique insights into practices that can drive the quality of your provision. Our sessions are also intensely practical – equipping you with the knowledge and resources to act and make improvements in your role and organisation.

Perfect for new starts across all departments as well as those requiring a refresher, this is designed for all staff involved in administrating or delivering apprenticeships so they can develop a healthy understanding of compliance and how it relates to their job role.

“David’s knowledge and expertise is unparalleled.”

– Event attendee

“I wished I had done it 18m ago when I got involved with apprenticeships.”

– Head of Quality & Improvement/DSL, Central College of Animal Studies

“Very well delivered, clear and very good subject knowledge”

– Team Leader Horticulture Apprentices, Capel Manor College

Booking and payment:

You can either attend live sessions or be sent the recordings and materials if you prefer to review them in your own time. You can also mix and match for whatever works best for your schedule.

If you have several staff who would benefit, let us know and we’ll send you details of the most cost-effective way of accessing the session.

If you’re a public sector body (e.g. Local Authority), and unable to book via card, please email us. When you make a booking, you agree to these Terms and Conditions (including those who request a booking via email and invoice)

SDN CPD is designed for Government funded Training Providers. If you’re not a Government funded Training Provider but are still interested in attending please email events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk to discuss your attendance in more detail before booking.

Open Event at West Lancashire College
2025-05-01 16:30 - 19:00 | West Lancashire College, College Way, Skelmersdale, WN8 6LH, United Kingdom
At our final Open Event of the 24-25 academic year, school leavers can find out more about our range of BTECs, Technical and T Level courses which include:

T Levels in Building Services Engineering, Management and Business, Digital Support Services, Education and Child Care, as well as Health

BTECS in Art and Design, Early Years Education, Computer Science, Engineering, Health and Social Care, Sports and Uniformed Public Services

Technicals in Beauty Therapy, Bricklaying, Carpentry and Joinery, Electrical, Hairdressing, Motor Vehicle and Plumbing

Foundation Learning including Inclusive Learning, Aspire programme and Supported Internship

You can meet our tutors and talk to current students, view our outstanding facilities and find out more about our great results, free* transport, fabulous wrap around support, great connections with employers and universities, as well as fully funded trips including Germany, Spain, Malta and Cyprus!

Plus, there will be lots of activities for you to explore and free refreshments too.

We very much look forward to welcoming you to our college soon.

*Subject to eligibility and availability

Getting the Most from Your Observations of Teaching, Learning and Assessment
2025-05-07 09:30 - 2025-05-08 12:30 | Online
Overview
This online workshop will focus on how you can improve your current practice when observing teaching and assessment activities. We will initially consider how the use of observations by Ofsted to make judgements about ‘curriculum implementation’ and ‘curriculum impact’ has changed over time and how this might affect your own practice.

We will then reflect on why teaching in lessons is often judged too generously and discuss the traits of highly effective lesson observers.

Richard will also provide you with a range of useful and insightful prompts for use when observing a group or one-to-one learning session and will reflect on some ‘Ofsted myths’ about teaching and learning.
Bearing in mind that observation activities should encompass the whole of the learner journey, we will consider what makes for an outstanding progress review, professional discussion and question and answer assessment in the workplace.

Finally, we will consider the sorts of questions you might ask learners as part of an observation, writing up and feeding back your key judgements, and agreeing development needs as part of an action plan.

Objectives
This in depth interactive workshop will examine a number of key areas, including:

The ways in which the use of observations by Ofsted inspectors to make judgements about teaching and learning have changed over time.
Why teaching in lessons is often judged too generously.
The traits of highly effective lesson observers.
What to look for in a great learning session.
Prompts for making judgements about different aspects of a session.
Ofsted myths about teaching and learning.
The sorts of questions you might ask learners as part of an observation.
Observing progress reviews.
Observing professional discussions and question/answer sessions in the workplace.
Writing up and feeding back your judgements and agreeing a development plan.
Decisions you need to make about your observation process.

Facilitator: Richard Moore, Richard Moore Solutions

Click here to find out more information or to register.

AI in Adult Education Workshop
2025-05-07 14:00 - 15:30 | Online
One of the highlights of the Cambridge Access Validating Agency’s Annual Conference last December was Nork Zakarian’s workshop on ‘AI in Adult Education’. Given the popularity of the session and the significance of this subject, we are delighted to be opening this online workshop to all. The workshop will cover:

Introduction to AI and a prompting framework for effective AI generation.
A practical activity to generate content relevant to your professional practice that may include assessment design, unit design, enhancing accessibility for diverse needs, personalised learning, and lesson plans.
Good Practice and supporting colleges to engage with AI.
Discussion on guidance on the use of AI in assessment, data privacy, future of assessment, academic integrity, detecting AI misuse and mitigation strategies. If you would like to attend, please register here.

Who are we?

The Cambridge Access Validating Agency (CAVA) is a non-profit membership organisation who designs, validates, quality assures, and awards Access to Higher Education (HE) Diplomas. Access to HE Diplomas provide an opportunity for adults without the relevant formal qualifications to go to university. CAVA works with six universities and more than 30 further education providers in the UK.

Metacognition: Supporting Learners to Learn How to Learn
2025-05-09 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

This webinar is part of a series of webinars focusing on lifelong, practical learning and progression. The sessions will ensure that delegates can make practical differences to their teaching immediately.

This webinar will help teachers, trainers and coaches to help learners develop the skills to become lifelong learners

Click the links to register your interest in the rest of this series.

Experiential Learning: Turning doing into learning

Approaches to Careers Education: How to get learners to take control of their futures

Objectives

This webinar will help delegates to:

Define Metacognition: Participants will understand what metacognition is and why it is critical for effective learning.

Explore the Components of Metacognition: Participants will identify and explain the three components of metacognition: planning, monitoring, and evaluating.

Apply Metacognitive Strategies in Teaching Practice: Participants will design activities that promote metacognitive awareness and strategies among learners.

Reflect on Personal Metacognitive Practices: Participants will assess how they use metacognition in their own teaching and develop strategies to enhance it.

Facilitator

Paul Wakeling, Education Consultant

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Level 3 award in undertaking end-point assessment
2025-05-13 08:00 - 2025-07-03 17:00 | Online
Are you looking to conduct end-point assessment in the future, or prepare apprentices for it? End-point assessment is different and high stakes.

This Level 3 course will provide you with the building blocks to carry out end-point assessment in future and help you to get ahead of the game. If you’re preparing apprentices for end-point assessment on-programme, the course will give you a useful insight into what apprentices will face.

SDN has helped many of the first EPAOs (and their assessor teams) currently delivering end-point assessment and have a cutting-edge insight into what end-point assessment looks like in practice.

Here’s what the course covers:

Understand the principles and practices of end-point assessment as part of an apprenticeship standard

The role and responsibilities of an end-point assessor
The function of end-point assessment as part of an apprenticeship standard
The requirements of apprenticeship standards and end-point assessments
The difference between ongoing assessments and end-point assessments
Grading requirements of end-point assessments and the differences between each grade

Understand different types and methods of end-point assessment

The different types and methods of end-point assessments that form part of apprenticeship standards
The strengths and limitations of a range of end-point assessment types and methods

Know how to plan end-point assessments in line with the apprenticeship standard and assessment plan

Key factors to consider when planning end-point assessments.
Risks that may be involved in conducting end-point assessments within own area of responsibility
Planning how to conduct end-point assessments in line with the requirements of an apprenticeship standard and assessment plan
Communicating planned end-point assessments to relevant stakeholders

Be able to make end-point assessment decisions

Assessing the vocational knowledge, skills and behaviours of an apprentice to meet end-point assessment requirements
Recording the end-point assessment decision
Justifying end-point assessment and grading decisions in line with the apprenticeship requirements.
Following procedures to maintain the confidentiality of end-point assessment information
Following relevant policies, procedures and legislation when conducting, recording and reporting end-point assessments
Providing end-point assessment feedback to stakeholders

Understand quality assurance of the end-point assessment process

Quality assurance and standardisation policies and procedures that apply to end-point assessments
Procedures to follow when there are disputes concerning end-point assessments decisions
Planning and logging professional development opportunities relevant to own role

About your session

The course will be taught by Emily Hughes, SDN expert in apprenticeship on-programme training and end-point assessment.

Our team have been heavily involved in the development of new standards and assessment plans, as well as supporting many EPAOs and hundreds of individuals to prepare to deliver end-point assessment.

This course is designed for those conducting, planning to deliver, or those preparing apprentices for end-point assessment and is applicable to all industries.

This qualification is accredited by Highfield Qualifications, with whom SDN is an approved centre. If you successfully complete the course, you will receive a Level 3 Award in Undertaking End-Point Assessment

“I absolutely loved the course and will be recommending the course to others.”

“You were so positive & friendly – this allowed the cohort to cope with the 20+ criteria on the observation. Your over-riding personality made us all feel welcome & encouraged us to face all of the challenges head-on. This positivity & can-do approach helped the cohort immensely as I think that most of us probably felt out of our depth initially. By giving the cohort, the feeling that we ‘were all in it together’ boosted our overall confidence.”

“The course has been outstanding. Very high standard of training from highly experienced and credible practitioners”

“Vital course for anyone who is considering a career as an end-point assessor”

– Attendees from the Level 3 course

Before you book:

Entry requirements:

Age 18 or over
Proficiency in literacy and numeracy
Proven occupational experience in your EPA sector area

Documentation:

Copy of your CV
Professional statement
Relevant certificates
Proof of ID

You’ll need:

Headphones/earphones set to reduce background noise
Microphone – you’ll need to participate in the session
Webcam – to verify identity and allow assessor to observe activity

Booking and payment:

If you’re a Local Authority, and unable to book via card, please email us. When you make a booking, you agree to these Terms and Conditions (including those who request a booking via email and invoice)

Any questions, or to request an invoice, please email: events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk

SDN CPD is designed for Government funded Training Providers. If you’re not a Government funded Training Provider but are still interested in attending please email events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk to discuss your attendance in more detail before booking.

Designated Safeguarding Lead Training
2025-05-13 10:00 - 16:00 | Online
A provider’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) plays a critical role in its approach to safeguarding its learners, training its staff, providing support and guidance and taking responsibility for referral decisions – as well as dealing with Ofsted! Although legislation focuses on the protection of children and vulnerable adults, providers have a responsibility to protect all learners.
This course will provide information about what the role involves and is designed for staff new to the role and for those wanting to update their knowledge. It includes direct delivery and a range of scenario-based activities to consider.
Key outcomes of the day:

Understand the implications of Keeping Children Safe in Education (September 2024) and revised Ofsted expectations
Know the likely roles of the Designated Safeguarding Lead
Be able to recognise and respond to disclosures sensitively and efficiently
Know how and when to share information with other organisations
Implementing safer recruitment strategies including the use of DBS checks
Know how to deal with allegations that involve staff
Know the key policies, statute and inspection guidance that underpin the Prevent duty
Making referrals under the Prevent Duty

The programme will be delivered by a member of the Solvendis Quality Improvement and Inspection Team and serving inspector.
All delegates will receive a Solvendis certificate of attendance which documents the training content.

Initial Assessment in Action - Uncovering Learners' Authentic Starting Points
2025-05-15 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

In this interactive, hands-on webinar, Gemma will show you how to go beyond traditional testing to truly understand each learner’s unique starting point. You’ll gain practical insights into how to assess strengths, barriers, prior learning, and personal circumstances, all while ensuring alignment with the Education Inspection Framework (EIF).

In this interactive, hands-on webinar, Gemma will show you how to go beyond traditional testing to truly understand each learner’s unique starting point. You’ll gain practical insights into how to assess strengths, barriers, prior learning, and personal circumstances, all while ensuring alignment with the Education Inspection Framework (EIF).

Gemma won’t just talk theory—this session includes real-world examples and a toolkit of resources to help you apply what you’ve learned in your own provision. By the end of the webinar, you’ll have a clear, actionable strategy for capturing meaningful learner information that sets learners up for success and guides them through a personalised and aspirational education journey.

Objectives

Delegates attending this webinar will leave with:

Supportive resources to help you design personalised learner journeys

Practical tools to conduct a holistic initial assessment

Actionable strategies for assessing and recording starting points effectively

Real-world examples to help you implement the assessment process right away

Facilitator

Gemma Hart, Head of Quality Apprenticeships, Fuel Learning

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Understanding the DfE Financial Handbook for Independent Training Providers
2025-05-20 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
Overview

Don’t miss this essential webinar that unpacks the critical financial management, governance, and assurance requirements every Independent Training Provider needs to know. Get clear, practical insights into the DfE’s Financial Handbook and what it means for your organisation.

Objectives

By the end of this session, you will:

Know exactly when and how to apply key components of the DfE’s Financial Handbook in real-world scenarios.Learn practical strategies for implementing the handbook’s guidance in your own organisation, with tools to assess and adapt it effectively after the session.Discover how the handbook can strengthen your corporate governance and risk management, while helping you gain greater assurance over your funding.

FacilitatorRupert Crossland, Professional Assessment Limited

FAB Futures
2025-05-20 10:00 - 16:00 | Hyatt Regency, 2 Bridge St, Birmingham, B1 2JZ, United Kingdom
Join us for this unique, inaugural, one-day event, sponsored by NEBOSH, which is designed around the needs of those with responsibility for developing business strategies in the Skills and FE Sector. The FAB Futures Seminar will unpack key issues that will determine the operating environment for the FE and Skills qualifications and assessment industry in 2032.

The seminar will reach beyond the current policy horizon and explore learner trends, markets, technology and regulation with the assistance of distinguished speakers and panellists from academia, business, think-tanks and the industry through a blend of keynote speeches, expert panel analysis and round table discussions. Speakers and Panellists will include PA Consulting, Cambridge Assessment, DfE, Institute for Fiscal Studies, Ofqual, and more.

The seminar has been designed to meet the needs of industry leaders and strategic planners, as well as future leaders and aspirational individuals looking to grow within the sector. It will also be of interest to the wider FE and Skills sector. It will be an opportunity to exchange ideas with colleagues and those thinking about the future, whilst acquiring understanding and insights that will support business planning and strategic thinking.

Discover Cambridge Access Validating Agency (CAVA)
2025-05-20 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Want to simplify assessment, ease admin pressures, and strengthen your Access to HE offer under the updated grading scheme?
Join us for Discover CAVA – an online open event especially for Access to HE providers who don’t currently work with us but are curious to learn more. We will show how we work in partnership with providers to put Access to HE at the heart of everything we do.
At CAVA, Access to HE isn’t one strand of what we do – it’s our entire focus.
That means your teams and students benefit from:-Streamlined quality assurance that’s flexible and proportionate-Lower admin burden – with no drop in standards-Targeted support and tailored CPD offers-Student outcomes that consistently exceed the national average-Clear, upfront pricing with no surprises
Register now
This is an informal session – no pressure, no commitment – just a chance to meet the team, ask questions, and find out how we could support your staff and learners.

Who are we?
Cambridge Access Validating Agency (CAVA) is a non-profit membership organisation who designs, validates, quality assures, and awards Access to Higher Education (HE) Diplomas. Access to HE Diplomas provide an opportunity for adults without the relevant formal qualifications to go to university. CAVA works with six universities and more than 30 further education providers in the UK.

Get Britain Working: Navigating New Tender Opportunities
2025-05-22 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

The Get Britain Working suite of initiatives is part of the new Government’s back to work drive that is designed to tackle long-term sickness, support young people who are ‘not in education, employment, or training’ (NEET), and help people to develop their careers.

This webinar will look at the potential programmes of delivery and the procurement processes, as well as exploring lessons learnt from past initiatives and the devolution agenda, which will help providers secure future contracts.

ObjectivesThis webinar will help delegates to:

Have a clear understanding of the future tender opportunities derived from the Get Britain working suite of initiatives

Understand how and when opportunities will come to market

Plan for potential opportunities over the next 3-6 months

FacilitatorSteve O’Hare, Director, SCLO Consulting limited

Click here to find out more information or to register.

The Future of the Growth and Skills Levy
2025-05-29 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

This webinar will explore, through panel discussion, what we currently know about the direction of travel for the Growth and Skills Levy. The panel, chaired by Simon Ashworth, AELP Director of Policy and Deputy Chief Executive, will consider thoughts and views from three AELP board members on what might happen, as a result of the impending spending review decisions, to provide members with more clarity on any likely consequences.

Objectives

This webinar will discuss:

– The future of apprenticeship funding– What is the opportunity with foundation apprenticeships and is the government seizing it?– The latest developments on level 7 apprenticeship defunding, and its likely impact– What will shorter duration apprenticeships mean, and why is it being introduced?

Facilitator

Simon Ashworth, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Policy, AELP

Guest Speakers

Nicki Hay MBE, Director of Apprenticeship Strategy and Policy, BPP Education Group, Ian Bamford, Chief Quality and Curriculum Officer, Paragon Skills and Sue Pittock OBE, CEO, Remit Training

Fees

AELP Member: FREENon-member: £100.00 + VAT.

Click here to find out more information or to register.

2025-05-29 14:00 - 2025-05-30 21:30
iSpring Days 2025 — a free online conference for learning professionals

Most companies say they’re investing in learning, but how many can actually prove its business impact?

At iSpring Days 2025, we’re closing that gap. Join James Gilchrist, Holly Owens, Tom McDowall, Susi Miller, and 10+ more industry leaders on May 29th–30th to learn how to:

Speak the language of C-level, tie learning to business outcomes, and demonstrate training value beyond activity metrics.

Break down silos between teams to reduce turnover, build stronger talent pipelines, and make better use of learning budgets.

Shift from top-down training to peer-driven growth, scale mentorship, and bring AI into learning — even on tight budgets.

As a special bonus, all attendees will get a chance to win a travel package to one of Europe’s premier in-person eLearning conferences!

How to practically implement the new 2025-26 Apprenticeship Funding Rules
2025-06-02 10:00 - 2025-07-28 11:00 | Online
With an early release of the new apprenticeship funding rules (2025/26) due to be published in May, join us for our annual business-critical webinar series – now in three parts to help you plan for the changes and understand the practical actions you will need to take across your organisation.

That’s where we do a lot of thinking for you. Using the stages of the learner journey, this 3-part webinar series will walk through the updates, what it means operationally for different teams along the way, where new risks might arise and practical ways you can mitigate them. It will also include the latest critical changes to the functional skills implementation, new minimum durations as well as clarifications to 25/26 rules.

We’ll also give you a detailed “Changes Action Plan”, setting out all the key changes and actions you need to take across different teams.

Session 1 – Laying the ground (2nd June, 10.00am-10.45am)

After the DfE’s announcement that there will be no draft funding rules this year, we have added this additional webinar to our funding rules series – at no extra charge – to help you lay the best foundations for August implementation

Following the first release of the first version of the funding rules in May, this session will cover the headline changes and start the process of preparing for change.

Break down each of the funding rule changes
Explore the impact for independent providers, universities, colleges, and employer providers
Identify key risks across your organisation

Session 2 – Detailed implementation (3 July, 10.00am-1pm)

Having consolidated the rules and developed models of best practice, for change this session will explore:

How the funding rule changes will impact on the learner journey:
o Pre-entry
o Entry
o On-programme
o Gateway and end-point assessment
o Progression
Specific changes you will need to make to your ILR and funding administration and management
Practical adaptions you will need to make to your systems, processes and templates
Q&A
We will issue a detailed implementation action plan to work through with this session

Session 3 – Supporting change (28th July, 10.00am-11.00am)

Taking account of any further clarifications and further examples of best practice, this Q&A session will include quality perspectives on the changes as well as the opportunity to get best practice answers to your questions

Updates and clarifications
Quality perspectives
Q&A

About your session

The session will be facilitated by David Lockhart-Hawkins, SDN’s compliance and funding expert who has supported hundreds of providers in their apprenticeship journey including some of the UK’s largest, highest quality, specialist and new providers.
David’s in-depth understanding of curriculum design and quality, as well as funding, gives him a unique insight into the practical implications of funding rule changes.

This session is designed for apprenticeship providers – compliance and operational staff, quality managers, and leaders overseeing the impact on the apprenticeship delivery journey.

“This was excellent. You feel that an awful lot of work has gone into producing this, packed with helpful content, guidance and experience. Thank you so much!”

“I will be recommending colleagues to sign up to training alerts. Really looking forward to attending other sessions.”

“Very useful – as always. Thorough and detailed, with great slides to support.”

“It was very clear that a large amount of time and effort has gone into the preparation of today’s event – and that is why SDN is my first choice for webinars.”

“Excellent coverage, well planned and organised with clear expertise in the funding rules”

– Event attendees

Booking and payment:

You can either attend the live sessions or be sent the recording and materials if you prefer to review them in your own time.

If you’re a public sector body (e.g. Local Authority), and unable to book via card, please email us. When you make a booking, you agree to these Terms and Conditions (including those who request a booking via email and invoice)

SDN CPD is designed for Government funded Training Providers. If you’re not a Government funded Training Provider but are still interested in attending please email events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk to discuss your attendance in more detail before booking.

Understanding the Changing Adult Social Care Sector - Northern Skills Network
2025-06-04 14:00 - 16:00
The adult social care sector is undergoing significant transformation. With changes in policy, evolving workforce needs, and the introduction of new national strategies, it’s never been more crucial for training providers to stay informed and proactive. In response to this, the Northern Skills Network is proud to partner with Skills for Care to deliver an insightful and interactive webinar.

This free online event is specifically designed for training and learning providers who are currently working with—or are looking to expand into—the adult social care sector. Attendees will gain valuable insights into current sector trends, key policy developments, and future workforce requirements, directly from those helping shape the strategy.

What to Expect:

During this two-hour session, our expert speakers will:

Present regional workforce data to help providers better understand the size, structure, and dynamics of the adult social care workforce in the North of England.

Explore key policy changes introduced by the government, including the reform agenda for adult social care and its direct implications on skills development and training provision.

Introduce the national Workforce Strategy for Social Care, a cornerstone document that sets out the vision and framework for supporting the workforce of the future. Learn how this strategy is influencing the sector and what it means for those delivering training.

Discuss opportunities for training providers to adapt, evolve, and expand their services to better meet the changing needs of social care employers and staff. This is a chance to identify where your offer fits and how you can contribute to a more skilled and resilient care workforce.

About Skills for Care

Skills for Care is a trusted sector leader, funded by the Department of Health and Social Care. Our mission is to support the adult social care sector in developing a workforce that is capable, confident, and well-equipped for the demands of today and tomorrow. We collaborate closely with employers, training providers, local authorities, and strategic partners to ensure quality outcomes for the people who draw on care services. Learn more at Skills for Care.

Apprenticeship curriculum design
2025-06-11 09:30 - 13:00 | Online
Whether you’ve been on our curriculum webinar series, or are new to SDN, this Masterclass will help you hone your skills as a curriculum developer.

Developing a curriculum for apprenticeship standards is challenging. In many cases, it is less prescribed, employers have greater input into the content and sequencing, and the prior learning of the apprentice needs to be taken into account.

It’s something the ESFA and Ofsted are looking at closely too.

Over a 3.5-hour interactive online session, Chris Cherry will take you through a step-by-step example of how to deconstruct a standard and build the curriculum from the top down.

During the session, you’ll work on short activities at each stage to develop your understanding and skill and come away with a clear model you can use for the apprenticeship standards you deliver.

Here’s what we’ll cover during the session:

The principles of good-quality curriculum design
A practical step-by-step worked example:

Deconstructing the standard and amplifying the KSBs
Articulating the learning outcomes, deciding on the learning methods and building in other components
Shaping this into ‘episodes of learning’ as part of a Scheme of Work
Translating the Scheme of Work into an Individual Learning Plan which takes both the apprentice’s prior learning and employer requirements into account

Practical tips on how to adjust the curriculum and training plan “mid-flight” during the programme, to meet the needs of the apprentice and employer

About your session

The session will be facilitated by Chris Cherry an SDN expert in apprenticeship on-programme training and end-point assessment. Chris has supported hundreds of apprenticeship organisations to develop their curriculum against the new standards and has lots of insights to share.

This masterclass is designed for those involved in the design and development of your apprenticeship curriculum and materials.

Before the session, you’ll be sent a 1-hr webinar, giving you an overview of the curriculum planning process for apprenticeship standards.

“Breaking down the KSB’s and how the curriculum forms the ILP was a key learning point. Excellent session and also enjoyed the pre-training recording.”

– Orange Moon Training

“I’ve been trawling the internet and asked FE colleagues about curriculum design and found nothing useful. This is just the ticket. Very engaging, informative and fun to listen to. I’ve learned more in the first 15 minutes than the previous 15 years.”

“Very informative and helpful”

– Previous event attendees

Booking and payment:

You can either attend the live session or be sent the recording and materials if you prefer to go through it in your own time but we highly reccommend attending live to get the most out of this interactive session.

If you have several staff who would benefit, let us know and we’ll send you details of the most cost-effective way of accessing the session.

If you’re a public sector body (e.g. Local Authority), and unable to book via card, please email us. When you make a booking, you agree to these Terms and Conditions (including those who request a booking via email and invoice)

Any questions, please email us.

SDN CPD is designed for Government funded Training Providers. If you’re not a Government funded Training Provider but are still interested in attending please email events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk to discuss your attendance in more detail before booking.

Level 3 Award in Education and Training (Fast-track)
2025-06-12 10:00 - 2025-06-27 16:00 | Online
We are pleased to be able to offer an effective response to the need to develop the teaching and training skills of staff working in Post-16 education.
The programme will focus on those aspects of training so essential in ensuring sound learning. Participants will benefit from a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders in the education and training sector. They will develop their teaching and training skills through a clear understanding of inclusive teaching and learning, and be able to plan, deliver and evaluate learning which meets the needs of all learners.
Participants attend for 4 workshop days, which include a microteach, and assignment completion. Assessment will be via portfolio, assignment and observation.
Dates of attendance on this block release programme are 12, 13 & 26, 27 June 2025 (all days 10.00 – 4.00).
Delegate fee £425 (plus vat) plus £62 awarding body registration fee – maximum delegate number 12.

Innovate North 2025
2025-06-12 15:00 - 19:00 | David Hockney Building, Great Horton Rd, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD7 1AY, United Kingdom
Do you work in Education? Come and join us at Bradford College for an exciting FREE afternoon where we’ll showcase how we’ve embraced technology to transform teaching and learning. From mind-blowing VR experiences to AI tools that save hours of planning time and enhance students’ learning – you’ll get to see it all in action.

We’ll have hands-on sessions, testimonials from our staff, and some fantastic partners like Microsoft, i-Immersive, Bodyswaps, TeacherMatic, and more. Plus, we’re excited to welcome guests from JISC and AoC—it’s going to be a brilliant opportunity to learn, share, and get inspired together!

Choose your Top 3 Session Choices to attend – purchase 1 ticket per session (3 in total pp)

🕶️ Immersive Learning in Action (Experience the i-Immersive Room in action)

🤖 AI in Education: Bradford College’s Success Story (Learn how Bradford College embraced AI, plus insights from Microsoft representatives on their latest educational AI tools)

🛠️ VR Marketplace (Hands-on with the latest virtual reality tools)

📚 TeacherMatic: Smarter Lesson Planning (AI-powered lesson planning demo)

🎥 Interactive Learning with Edpuzzle (Explore engaging, interactive videos)

Escape from Dracula! (showcasing digital innovation within a library setting) 20 per session

Itinerary

3-4pm – Welcome / intros4-4:45pm – Session 1 4:45-5:30pm – Session 2 5:30-6:15pm – Session 3 6:15-7:15pm – Networking & close

EPA – Maximising the opportunity of Policy Changes
2025-06-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
Overview
Recent announcements are set to reshape how End-Point Assessment (EPA) is approached, with a stronger emphasis on embedding specific EPA principles into the design process from the outset.

Join us for this insightful webinar as we unpack these changes and explore what they mean in practice. Gain a deeper understanding of the updated principles and how they will impact EPA design moving forward.

Objectives
By attending this session, you will:

• Gain a clear understanding of the proposed changes and implementation timelines
• Learn what the new EPA principles entail and how they will impact current EPA arrangements
• Explore key considerations for your sector, including how on-programme delivery and assessment may evolve

Facilitator
Charlotte Bosworth, Managing Director, Innovate Awarding

EdTechX Summit
2025-06-17 08:00 - 18:00 | ect. venues County Hall, County Hall, Belvedere Rd,, London, SE1 7PB
We’re thrilled to announce the return of the EdTechX Summit in 2025, where the future of education, training and work takes centre stage!
Set within the vibrant London EdTech Week programme, this exclusive headline event is limited to 400 senior industry leaders, ensuring an intimate and dynamic experience between founders, CEOs, policymakers, senior executives, and investors.
EdTechX will provide a whirlwind of visionary insights, high-impact networking and thought-provoking discussions, all designed to connect industry with innovation and to foster collaboration. This one-day summit is your gateway to connecting with a global network of stakeholders shaping the future of the education, training and workplace landscape.
The EdTechX Summit 2025 will take place on Tuesday 17th June at County Hall, Westminster. Located on London’s Southbank, with breathtaking views of the River Thames, The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the London Eye; this is the perfect setting for igniting ideas and forming new connections.

Building Confidence and Tackling the “Anti-Maths Mindset”
2025-06-17 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview
This webinar focuses on general strategies (rather than specific maths content) to engage students and improve maths outcomes. It encourages maths-related delivery across vocational areas and tutorials based around topical and contextualised material.

Objectives
This webinar will help delegates to:

Recognise the key principles of the maths mastery approach and identify how these can be translated into a delivery strategy at your organisation;
Develop a strategy for raising the profile of maths across college and increase collaboration between departments;
Identify the causes and symptoms of maths anxiety, and plan and deliver lessons that support learners with maths anxiety.
The session will suggest some strategies for streamlining maths delivery and signpost resources and schemes of work. It will highlight the importance of cross-college collaboration, and consider how to address the challenges of maths anxiety in the classroom.

It is intended that learners receive a consistent message regarding the importance of maths, and a fresh approach that presents a contrast to previous negative experiences. Learners with maths anxiety will be given support to achieve and ultimately to reduce their anxiety.

Facilitator
Sam Edwards, Pick ME Consulting

Click here to register or to find out more information.

Open Education Conference (OER25)
2025-06-23 08:00 - 2025-06-24 17:00 | Resource for London, 356 Holloway Road, London, N7 6PA
Mark your calendars. The 16th annual Open Education Conference (OER25) is set to take place on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 June 2025 in London at the Resource for London conference centre. This year’s conference promises to be an inspiring gathering, to share the latest research, practices, and approaches in open education.

The OER25 Conference is a pinnacle event for the Association for Learning Technology, bringing together a dynamic community of educators, researchers, and practitioners. This is your chance to explore a world of innovation, exchange ideas, and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of open education.

What to Expect:

Engaging keynote sessions from leaders in the field

Insightful presentations and workshops

Opportunities to network with like-minded professionals

Exciting social events and much more

We will be sharing the theme and inviting papers for OER25 shortly.

Effectively Self-Assessing Quality of Provision Under Ofsted’s New Framework
2025-06-23 10:30 - 12:00
Join us for an insightful webinar with Peter Nelson, former HMI, as he explores the pros and cons of self-assessing this year against Ofsted’s new inspection framework.

During this session, Peter will:

• Consider several options of how you might approach self-assessment and the structure of your self-assessment report (SAR) and quality improvement plan (QIP)• Introduce Ofsted’s new inspection framework, and how that might have a bearing on this year’s SAR• Explore how you might approach grading of your SAR• Introduce the toolkits, and summarise the main points of each of the key judgements contained in the new inspection framework• Provide practical insights on how to self-assess objectively and identify areas for improvement.

This is an invaluable opportunity for education providers to gain expert guidance and help ensure the rigour of your quality improvement process.

Please contact info@fin-online.org.uk for any support with booking.

Event Booking (sphr.uk)

Integrating Social Value into Tenders
2025-06-25 10:00 - 11:00
Overview

The Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012 has become a key component in public sector tendering. It requires contracting authorities to consider how procurement can improve economic, social, and environmental well-being in their communities.

This practical session will explain how to understand and apply the Act in your tendering process—helping you improve your Social Value scores and win more contracts.

You’ll leave with:

A clear understanding of the Act and its relevance to bids

Insight into identifying and demonstrating your Social Value offer

Proven strategies to answer Social Value questions effectively

Objectives

This session is designed to help you meet the following learning objectives:

Understand the Social Value Act and its implications for bidding

Identify their own Social Value contributions in education and skills

Respond confidently and effectively to Social Value tender question

Facilitator

Steve O’Hare, SCLO Consulting LTD

FREE WEBINAR - DISCOVERY SESSION WITH FIN - WITH OFSTED INSPECTION DATA AND TOP TIPS
2025-06-26 10:30 - 11:30
Join us for an informal session hosted by Peter Nelson, former Ofsted Inspector. Peter will share some updates on inspections with some top tips. This is also an opportunity to find about the Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (FIN) and how your organisation could benefit and answer any questions you may have. Peter will also provide attendees with an insight into the guidance and knowledge members have access to. We look forward to meeting you.

If you have any problems registering please email Caroline at info@fin-online.org.uk for assistance.

Events – Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (fin-online.org.uk)

Apprenticeship compliance for leaders - CPD accredited
2025-06-26 14:00 - 2025-07-08 16:00 | Online
“An apprenticeship deliverer is only going to be compliant if they understand the real risks within their organisation”

This CPD-accredited, in-depth webinar series digs deeply into the realities of apprenticeship compliance.
Designed for managers and leaders who want strategies for apprenticeship compliance, these sessions bring to life the knowledge and understanding of the core rules and funding methodologies. Beyond the basic rules, you’ll look at the foundations of compliance across your organisation, and how curriculum, evidence system design and monitoring of implementation are integral to getting compliance right while also strengthening quality.

At the end of the series, you will:

Be able to critically evaluate compliance in your own area of operation
Have developed your understanding of best practice for reducing risk
Increased your knowledge of common errors and how to avoid them

We’ll take you through:

Key compliance principles – How it all should work
Risk in areas of operation
Managing the risk of rogue elements within your organisation
Safeguarding funding through the apprentice journey – the data needed
The three R’s, Right programme, Right learner, and Right employer
Compliance strategies
Common strategic errors

About your session

David Lockhart-Hawkins, SDN’s funding and compliance expert will facilitate this series. After working in the sector for over 20 years, David has supported hundreds of providers to establish effective compliance systems. His in-depth understanding of funding and wider apprenticeship delivery gives him a unique insight into compliance across the organisation.

This Compliance for Leaders series is now fully CPD accredited! The accreditation reflects the industry-leading insights and practical strategies the series gives you. Not only will you come away more confident to lead compliance in your team and organisation, you will also receive a CPD certificate to evidence your personal development.

We’ve built this series so that providers can send middle and senior managers from all departments and areas on an intensive high-level compliance journey so that they can bring new ideas and best practice examples back into their organisations.

We highly recommend that you attend our Apprenticeship compliance fundamentals and what this means for your role series prior to attending these webinars. This will introduce all apprenticeship staff to the core apprenticeship rules and where their role fits in the compliance journey.

“Gave me a better understanding of how to improve quality through compliance audits and reviews within the company.”

“Very insightful, lots of great knowledge and handouts to help.”

– Previous event attendees

Booking and payment:

You can either attend live sessions or be sent the recordings and materials if you prefer to review them in your own time. You can also mix and match for whatever works best for your schedule.

If you have several staff who would benefit, let us know and we’ll send you details of the most cost-effective way of accessing the session.

If you’re a public sector body (e.g. Local Authority), and unable to book via card, please email us. When you make a booking, you agree to these Terms and Conditions (including those who request a booking via email and invoice)

SDN CPD is designed for Government funded Training Providers. If you’re not a Government funded Training Provider but are still interested in attending please email events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk to discuss your attendance in more detail before booking.
