Apprenticeship compliance for your role
2025-10-06 14:00 - 2025-10-09 15:30 (Europe/London) | 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 and updated in-year, 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.

You will receive a CPD attendance certificate after the series, as evidence of your personal development.

This series, led by David Lockhart-Hawkins, 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

Participants will also receive a useful workbook that highlights the key areas of the learning journey.

This series takes place on Monday 6 October (2-3.30pm), Wednesday 8 October (2-3.30pm) and Thursday 9 October (2-3.30pm).

If there are any dates/times where you aren’t available, register anyway and we’ll send you the recording and slides.

Booking Information

To enable your organisation to make the most of the training we have set the following price structure:

Single ticket: £195 + VAT

Group ticket: £395 + VAT

Do you have a team who would all benefit from attending? This ticket allows for 10 registrations, we want all your team to benefit.

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss a price for a larger group.

Who is this webinar series for?

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.

Facilitators and speakers

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.

Payment

To keep costs down, payment for the webinar series must be made online via credit card (book below). If you are a Local Authority, and unable to book via card, please email us on: events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk.

Terms and Conditions

The Terms and Conditions (including our refund policy) for SDN events and webinars can be found here. 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 the SDN events team: events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk.

Skills London - The National Apprenticeship & Education Event - Saracens StoneX Stadium
2025-10-07 09:30 - 15:00 | Saracens StoneX Stadium, Greenlands Lane, London, NW4 1RL
About the event

The National Careers Event (Skills London) in Barnet, North London, is the perfect event for school and college students from year 10+ as well as young adults to find out more about apprenticeships at all levels as well as the educational pathways available to them.
Taking place at Saracens (The StoneX Stadium) in London this event welcomes visitors and exhibitors from all North London and Central London Boroughs, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Milton Keynes Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire.
Be there. Be inspired!
Our events bring together thousands of Students aged 15+ from schools, sixth forms & colleges, parents, guardians & individuals together with Top UK Employers, Universities, Colleges & Training Providers. Our events provide those all-important face-to-face conversations in a fun and interactive setting.
Teachers and Careers Leaders of age 15+ Students

Your students will meet businesses face to face; discover apprenticeships & how to access apprenticeship programmes as well as other career routes into work.
Your students will get up to date careers advice and guidance on a wide range of future career paths.
Your students will get the opportunity to engage with universities, colleges, top UK employers & training providers.
Your students will be able to access information on future study options.
Your students can discover career opportunities and work experience placements.

Aged 15+
Are you leaving school, sixth form or college?
What are your options?

Which University?
Do you need apprenticeship advice? Learn more about intermediate to degree level!
What’s a T-Level?
How does an apprenticeship work with a training provider?
What can the regional colleges offer you?

Parents and Guardians of a child, or children, aged 15+
Are they leaving school, sixth form or college?
Do you need to find out more about what comes next?
There’s a lot to discover – all visitors attend our regional events for FREE and get the opportunity to engage with both national and regional businesses to find out more about all career options and pathways available to them. Talks by businesses, interactive engagement like competitions, virtual reality and have a go sessions to get involved with!
General Visitors
Are you looking for a new job or training opportunity?
With over 40+ regional and national businesses at each event – find amazing job opportunities!

Exhibiting at our events
If you’re an employer or provider and would like to discuss showcasing your opportunities, then why not exhibit at one or more of our events?
Contact the Events Team exhibit@nationalapprenticeshipevents.co.uk or 0800 023 5407

New legal duty of preventing Sexual Violence and Sexual Harrassment in workplace
2025-10-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

From August 2024, new legal duties require employers to take proactive steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace—not just respond to it. Are you and your team prepared?

This essential, introductory-level webinar will provide staff across post-16 education and training with a clear understanding of the Worker Protection Act, what constitutes workplace harassment, and how to respond appropriately and lawfully.

Led by Carly Spicer, Safeguarding Consultant from ECP Safeguarding, this session offers a supportive space to explore practical strategies, statutory expectations, and everyday actions to protect learners, colleagues, and your organisation.

Objectives

By attending this webinar, delegates will:

– Understand Harassment vs. Bullying – Learn the legal definitions and why the distinction matters under the Worker Protection Act
– Recognise Problematic Behaviours – Identify the signs, behaviours and prevalence of sexual harassment, including current statistics and trends
– Assess the Impact – Explore the emotional, psychological and operational consequences of harassment in learning and working environments
– Develop Response Strategies – Gain tools for bystander intervention, respectful communication, and navigating complex areas like consent and freedom of speech
– Implement Safe Reporting – Understand how to establish effective, compliant reporting channels, including whistleblowing support and how to manage disclosures

Click here to register or to find out more information.

Mastering Project Management Skills for Apprentices
2025-10-09 09:30 - 12:30 | Online
Overview

In today’s dynamic professional landscape, project management isn’t just a skill—it’s a critical foundation for apprenticeship success and effective End-Point Assessment (EPA).

This practical, hands-on webinar is designed for anyone supporting apprentices through projects, helping them build confidence, accountability, and the capability to deliver results. Whether you’re guiding learners or developing curriculum, you’ll gain valuable insight, proven strategies, and ready-to-use tools to embed robust project management practices within your programmes.

Learn how strong project management can drive both EPA success and long-term organisational value.

Objectives

This focused workshop will help you:

– Understand the role of project management in apprenticeships, EPA, and personal development
– Apply the project lifecycle in real apprenticeship contexts
– Implement practical tools to plan, monitor, and complete projects
– Support learners in building accountability, time management, and resilience
– Overcome common project challenges and enable high-quality outcomes
– Foster collaboration and stakeholder engagement
– Take away actionable plans for integrating PM into your apprenticeship programmes

Facilitator
Christine Edwards QTLS, Creating Excellence

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Empowering Learners with Digital Skills for Life and Work
2025-10-14 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
Overview

Digital capability is no longer optional—it’s a core life skill, as vital as maths and English. Whether it’s managing everyday online tasks or thriving in a fast-changing workplace, learners need the confidence and skills to succeed in a digital world.

This interactive webinar will:

Demystify the digital skills landscape—exploring why digital capability is now central to employability, inclusion and lifelong learning.
Clarify EDS and DFSQs—understanding how they connect, and what this means for your delivery.
Provide practical strategies—showing how to embed digital skills seamlessly across programmes, from adult education to apprenticeships.
Connect digital to sustainability and progression—highlighting how building capability supports Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and learner futures.
You’ll leave with clear, actionable ideas to strengthen your organisation’s digital skills offer—and to better equip your learners to live, work and progress with confidence.

Objectives

By the end of this session, delegates will:

Navigate the policy landscape with confidence—understanding the role of Essential Digital Skills (EDS) and Digital Functional Skills (DFSQs) in today’s learning and employability agenda.
Spot opportunities to embed digital learning across existing programmes, apprenticeships and adult provision.
Apply practical strategies to build both staff and learner confidence in using and developing digital skills.
Make clear connections between digital capability, employability, inclusion and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).
Take away tools and prompts to review and enhance their organisation’s current digital skills strategy.

Facilitator

Christine Edwards, QTLS, Creating Excellence

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Understanding Apprenticeship Off the Job training in 2025/26
2025-10-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Are your organisation’s models for planning and delivery compliant with the new 25/26 apprenticeship funding rules, and are you adopting best practice models for change?

From August 1st 2025 there will be significant changes to the compliance rules and operational implementation requirements for off the job training (OTJT). The publishing of new minimum hours per Apprenticeship standard and flexibilities of duration affect compliance in a significant way and could be a risk to funding if you do not manage change effectively.

We’ll help you to understand:

The new published minimums for OTJT
The transition timeframe
Rules on planning and distributing off the job hours
How to apply recognition of prior learning to content and price
Monitoring ‘Active learning’ in 25-26
How to use the new rules to open up new opportunities for business

About your session

The webinar will be facilitated by SDN Strategic Associate, David Lockhart-Hawkins. After working in the sector for over 20 years, David has experience of working with hundreds of high performing apprenticeship organisations over the last twenty years, including some of the UK’s largest, highest quality, specialist and new providers.

This series is for anyone involved in planning or monitoring the design and implementation of off the job hours so could include quality, compliance and finance from practitioners to leaders.

“David’s knowledge and expertise is unparalleled.”
– Event attendee

Booking and payment:

You can either attend live session or be sent the recording 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’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.

Embedding Safeguarding and Prevent into the Curriculum for 2025
2025-10-15 14:00 - 15:30 | Online
Overview

Join us for a highly practical and forward-thinking webinar designed for leaders and decision-makers across the provider sector.

Together, we’ll explore how to embed inclusion at every level of governance and leadership, ensuring it becomes a driving force behind strategy and day-to-day operations.

Drawing on the Ofsted framework, best practice from providers, and the expertise of governance board members and leaders, this session will equip you with tangible tools and approaches to:

Lead with social conscience.
Build inclusive, equitable cultures.
Drive genuine impact for learners and staff alike.
By the end, you’ll walk away with a clear strategic roadmap to strengthen your organisation’s inclusive practices and demonstrate leadership with impact.

Objectives

Attendees will:

Understand the critical role of governance and leadership in embedding inclusive practices across the organisation.
Learn how to cultivate a socially conscious, inclusive culture that benefits both learners and staff.
Gain clarity on the Ofsted inspection requirements for inclusive practice and what they mean in practical terms.
Explore how to personalise the learner journey – from onboarding to progression – to ensure every learner has the chance to succeed.
Take away real-world examples of setting personal Inclusion, Equity & Diversity (IED) objectives for leaders.

Facilitator

Maureen Deary, FES Consultant

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Designated Safeguarding Lead Training
2025-10-20 09:30 - 12:30 | Online
Overview

It is a statutory obligation for those with a lead or designated professional role for safeguarding to meet a ‘robust two yearly training’ requirement. Having completed safeguarding awareness training, this webinar equips professionals to perform their senior safeguarding function.

AELP are delighted to be working with Education Child Protection (ECP) to offer this course, which holds 6 Continuous Professional Development (CPD) credits. When certificated, delegates can use the ECP centre number to record the activity as CPD.

Please note: Delegates will be required to attend both sessions fully in order to receive the CPD credits. If you don’t attend both sessions and participate you will not be eligible for a certificate. Please note that attendance is monitored by the software.

Objectives

This in-depth webinar will cover:

Understanding of the Safeguarding Framework, including legislation and statutory guidance;
Effective implementation of Duty of Care within the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead;
Exploration of effective and robust record keeping;
Understanding the referral process and effective information sharing, and mental capacity;
Responding effectively to whistleblowing concerns;
Understanding of thresholds and risk analysis within the context of safeguarding;
Management of safeguarding across challenging topics including Domestic Abuse, ‘so-called’ Honour Based Abuse, Exploitation including Radicalisation, Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment (child on child abuse), Mental Health and Trauma Informed Practice.
For more information on course content and outcomes please watch this video:

Facilitator

Carly Spicer, Education Consultant, ECP Safeguarding

Please note, you must attend BOTH days to receive your CPD certification.

Click here to find out more information or to register.

ALT Annual Conference 2025 - ALTC25
2025-10-23 08:00 - 2025-10-24 17:00 | Glasgow Marriott Hotel
The ALT Annual Conference will bring together learning technology professionals from across sectors for two days of exchange, collaboration and community.

This year’s conference theme, “Stronger Foundations, Broader Horizons”, reflects our shared commitment to:

Building robust and reliable foundations in learning technology, supporting resilience and adaptability in a fast-changing landscape.

Broadening perspectives and ambitions by exploring innovative approaches, new opportunities and stronger collaboration across our community.

The programme has been shaped around these priorities, and we’re excited to offer a rich and varied line-up of over 60 sessions. You can expect:

Thought-provoking keynotes

Practical workshops

Interactive panels

Peer-led sessions

Lightning talks

Beyond the formal agenda, there are ample opportunities to connect through Group Fest, ALTC Radio, and a lively social programme, culminating in Thursday’s Awards and Gala Dinner, a highlight of the event.

Whether you’re joining us to share your practice, develop your thinking or reconnect with peers, ALTC25 promises to be a welcoming and energising space to engage with current developments in learning technology.

Explore the draft programme and start planning your ALTC25 experience now.

SCL Professional Neuro-Inclusive Leadership Webinar
2025-10-23 13:00 - 14:00
In today’s workplaces, one in seven people are neurodivergent, yet only 46% of managers feel confident supporting them. Our new apprenticeship programme focused on Neuro-Inclusive Leadership is designed to change that.

Join us as we explore how to lead with inclusion, confidence, and impact, creating teams where every individual can thrive, regardless of how their brain works.

📅 Wednesday, 23rd October🕐 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM🔗 Book your free place

Join us as we explore how to lead with inclusion, confidence, and impact, creating teams where every individual can thrive, regardless of how their brain works.

Why It Matters:

🔶 82% of UK managers are “accidental managers,” promoted without formal training.

🔶 Inclusive leadership benefits everyone improving performance, retention, and innovation. Let’s make inclusion the standard, not the exception.

Stress-Test Your Exams: No More Drama on Exam Day
2025-10-30 16:00 - 17:00 | Online
Join four assessment practitioners for a roundtable on what really makes exam delivery bulletproof, bringing perspectives from exam operations, support and platform technology.

Nicola Kurtz and Audrey Carter (Chartered Accountants Ireland), Aiden Molavi (Cirrus Service Desk) and Jeroen Habets (Cirrus CTO) will each share battle-tested practices from their work managing high-stakes exams.

Then we go off-script: Moderator Cristina Gilbert opens the floor for an honest discussion, exploring the blind spots most organisations overlook, the “gotchas” that catch even experienced teams and what the tech and services teams see from their different vantage points.

This isn’t a standard webinar, it’s a working conversation with people who manage exam delivery every day. Bring your toughest questions!

Trustee Recruitment – Building a better Board
2025-11-05 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

A great board doesn’t just happen. It’s built—through trustees who are motivated, diverse, and driven by purpose. But finding the right people (and keeping them engaged) can be a real challenge.

Join us for this practical webinar and discover how to:

Reach beyond your usual networks to attract fresh talent
Write role descriptions that inspire people to step forward
Run an open, inclusive process that brings in the right mix of skills and perspectives
Welcome and support new trustees so they feel confident, engaged, and effective
You’ll leave with clear steps, fresh ideas, and the confidence to build a stronger, more dynamic board—one that reflects your community and drives your organisation forward. Don’t just fill seats around the table. Build a board that makes a difference.

Objectives

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

Identify gaps in your board’s skills, perspectives, and experience.
Apply effective strategies to recruit beyond your usual networks.
Create inclusive role descriptions and transparent processes that inspire candidates.
Build supportive onboarding and development practices for new trustees.
Foster a culture of engagement that keeps trustees motivated long-term.
Enhance your organisation’s governance capacity through a resilient, diverse board.

Facilitators

Sarah Atkins Boal, Head of FE Appointments, Peridot Partners and Dan Baxter, Principal Consultant, Peridot Partners

Click here to find out more information or to register.

The Digital Educator: Teaching with Confidence in a Connected World
2025-11-12 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

Teaching is no longer confined to four walls—and neither are the opportunities to connect, inspire, and empower learners. In a digital-first world, educators need more than just awareness of technology; they need the confidence to use it seamlessly and creatively.

This webinar offers a practical roadmap for teachers/trainers who want to simplify their workload, spark engagement, and reach every learner through technology—without the need for expensive platforms or steep learning curves.

You’ll be introduced to a powerful toolkit of free, easy-to-use applications that can transform your teaching practice. From Canva for creating eye-catching visuals, to Trello for keeping projects on track, and Loom for delivering clear explanations. You’ll discover how these tools can save time and boost impact. You’ll also explore interactive platforms such as Padlet, Mentimeter, and Kahoot! to make learning more collaborative, participatory, and fun.

Alongside the tools, you’ll gain strategies for blending online and in-person teaching, building flexible learning journeys, and ensuring no student is left behind. Practical examples will show how small changes can make a big difference—whether you’re enhancing lesson delivery, encouraging collaboration, or breaking down barriers to inclusion.

Objectives

By the end of this webinar, participants will:

Discover a practical toolkit of free digital technologies that save time and reduce stress.
Gain strategies to foster student engagement and motivation in both online and blended settings.
Learn how to create flexible, inclusive learning journeys that work for all learners.
Leave with the confidence to embed digital approaches into everyday teaching.

Facilitator
Richard Parker, Senior Product Manager, Firebrand Training, End Point Assessor for IT & Digital Standards, Keynote Speaker

Click here to register or to find out more information.

Skills London - The National Apprenticeship & Education Event - The Kia Oval
2025-11-13 09:30 - 15:00 | The Kia Oval, Kennington Oval, London, SE11 5SS
About the event

The National Careers Event (Skills London) in Lambeth South London, is the perfect event for school and college students from year 10+ as well as young adults to find out more about apprenticeships at all levels as well as the educational pathways available to them.
Taking place at The Kia Oval in London this event welcomes visitors and exhibitors from across the South Region including all South London & Central London Boroughs, Berkshire, Essex, Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex and Kent
Be there. Be inspired!
Our events bring together thousands of Students aged 15+ from schools, sixth forms & colleges, parents, guardians & individuals together with Top UK Employers, Universities, Colleges & Training Providers. Our events provide those all-important face-to-face conversations in a fun and interactive setting.
Teachers and Careers Leaders of age 15+ Students

Your students will meet businesses face to face; discover apprenticeships & how to access apprenticeship programmes as well as other career routes into work.
Your students will get up to date careers advice and guidance on a wide range of future career paths.
Your students will get the opportunity to engage with universities, colleges, top UK employers & training providers.
Your students will be able to access information on future study options.
Your students can discover career opportunities and work experience placements.

Aged 15+
Are you leaving school, sixth form or college?
What are your options?

Which University?
Do you need apprenticeship advice? Learn more about intermediate to degree level!
What’s a T-Level?
How does an apprenticeship work with a training provider?
What can the regional colleges offer you?

Parents and Guardians of a child, or children, aged 15+
Are they leaving school, sixth form or college?
Do you need to find out more about what comes next?
There’s a lot to discover – all visitors attend our regional events for FREE and get the opportunity to engage with both national and regional businesses to find out more about all career options and pathways available to them. Talks by businesses, interactive engagement like competitions, virtual reality and have a go sessions to get involved with!
General Visitors
Are you looking for a new job or training opportunity?
With over 40+ regional and national businesses at each event – find amazing job opportunities!

Exhibiting at our events
If you’re an employer or provider and would like to discuss showcasing your opportunities, then why not exhibit at one or more of our events?
Contact the Events Team exhibit@nationalapprenticeshipevents.co.uk or 0800 023 5407

AmplifyFE Community Space Workshop: How to master LinkedIn to achieve your goals
2025-11-14 12:00 - 12:30 | Online
This session will use Tony K. Silver’s 4 pillars of LinkedIn to give attendees some invaluable and implementable takeaways.

We will look at making your profile very engaging so people will hang around not click away

We will look at how you can optimise it better to give value to the viewer and score search points

We will cover some of the key activities that drive the platform and get you noticed.

We will look at how we can use the Search engine to get highly targeted results

The session will be interactive to support your use of LinkedIn.

Claiming apprenticeship learning support funding (LSF) with confidence - 2025/26
2025-11-18 10:00 - 2025-11-19 12:00 | Online
Apprenticeship providers often lack confidence in claiming Learning Support Funding (LSF) but with quality infrastructure and evidence templates, providers should be able to generate the additional revenue they are entitled to.

That’s why we’re hosting this two-part webinar series, which has been updated for the 25/26 funding rules and is designed to take you on a journey to understand the rules, the necessary processes of screening and assessment, best practices for planning and reviewing support, using our experience of delivering outstanding quality to demonstrate solutions that make a real difference to the apprentice and provider experience as well meeting the funding rules.

You will receive a CPD attendance certificate after the series, as evidence of your personal development.

Demonstrating a thorough understanding of the rules and giving best practice guidance on how to support a claim, we’ll take you through:

The 25/26 Apprenticeship Funding Rules for claiming learning support funding and the key changes from 2024/25
What is learning support
The foundations of learning support infrastructure
Screening for learning difficulties and disabilities
Needs Assessment
Support Planning
Support Review
SEND flexibilities
Using the Earnings Adjustment Statement
Effective evidence templates
Compliance management

Hosted across two 2hr sessions:

Part 1: Understanding the learning support and functional skills flexibility funding rules and relevant legislation
Part 2: Implementing best practice and an effective learning support management structure

Attendees will receive a learning support controls checklist as well as a Support Review Template.

Our package options also include document templates for meeting 2025/26 funding rules and additional consultancy on a one to one basis. The suite of document templates is worth £725.

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.

The session has been designed for those involved in apprenticeship compliance and learner support e.g. Operation Managers, Learning Support Managers, trainers and administration managers.

“David’s knowledge and expertise is unparalleled.”
– Event attendee

Booking and payment:

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

If you have three or more staff who would benefit, or would like your wider teams/staff to have access, 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.

NEBOSH Online Conference: The event for the health and safety profession
2025-11-25 09:30 - 16:00
The NEBOSH Online Conference is where aspiring and practising health and safety professionals can access a day of educational content to support their professional development. Expert speakers will share their knowledge and experience to give delegates ideas for improving health and safety practice in their organisation.

ALT Digital Accessibility Workshop
2025-11-25 14:00 - 17:00
The Association for Learning Technology are excited to announce an upcoming interactive workshop that will delve into two critical lenses of reflection from the Digital Accessibility Maturity Model, developed by AbilityNet and McNaught Consultancy. This workshop is designed specifically for HE and FE institutions looking to enhance their digital accessibility strategies and practices.

Join us online on Tuesday, 25 November from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM.

The workshop will be facilitated by Amy Low from AbilityNet, Julian Tenney from the University of Nottingham and Ben Watson from UCL. Julian will bring his experience of using the maturity model to develop and mature practices at Nottingham and Ben will provide insights on the robust procurement guidance developed by himself and George Rhodes from University of Westminster who is also Ben’s business partner at AllAble.

During the workshop, we will focus on the Strategy and Structure lens, where we will explore evidence points that support the development and implementation of effective digital accessibility strategies that align with your institution’s goals and objectives. We will also discuss the importance of having a well-defined and resourced structure to support these strategies and ensure their successful execution.

In addition, we will examine the Governance and Accessibility Toolkit lens. This session will review initiatives and evidence points that signal robust governance frameworks are in place and practical tools being provided to manage and monitor your institution’s digital accessibility efforts including implementing a robust procurement policy. By leveraging these resources, you can ensure compliance with accessibility standards and create an inclusive digital environment for all users.

The workshop will be highly interactive, with opportunities for participants to engage in discussions, share experiences, and collaborate on best practices. Whether you are just starting your digital accessibility journey or looking to refine your existing approaches, this workshop will offer valuable insights and actionable takeaways.

Webinar series – Embedding Effective Assessment in Apprenticeships
2025-11-26 14:00 - 2025-12-02 16:00 | Online
Get ahead of the changes – build assessment practice that works for learners, employers and your team.

The way assessment is used in apprenticeships is shifting. With more focus on on-programme and pre-Gateway assessment, providers need to make sure their approach is fit for purpose. This session will help you build assessment into the apprenticeship journey from the very start – making it meaningful, manageable and linked to real workplace performance.

We’ll cover:

Practical ways to design and apply assessment methods that work across different standards.
How to build assessment into delivery – from day one through to Gateway.
Making assessments reflect the behaviours, skills and knowledge needed in the job.
Involving employers so they can play an active role.
Simple tools and templates to plan, record and review assessments.

You will receive a CPD attendance certificate after the series, as evidence of your personal development.

Series breakdown:

1. Planning Effective Assessment
Wednesday 26 November (2-3.30pm)

2. Assessment Design & Methods
Tuesday 2 November (2-4pm)

About your session

The session will be facilitated by Chris Cherry an SDN Mesma Group specialist 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.

Who should attend?

Managers, trainers, assessors and quality leads who want to improve assessment practice.
Anyone involved in curriculum design or progress reviews.
Employer engagement staff looking to play a role in assessment.

Level 4 Award in the IQA of Assessment Processes and Practice
2025-12-01 10:00 - 2025-12-08 16:00 | Online
This Level 4 accredited qualification is designed to develop delegates practical quality assurance skills helping them to become effective quality assurance practitioners in a range of Post-16 contexts both in the workplace and in the classroom. This course covers both ‘Internal Quality Assurance’ and has an option for a top-up for ‘Lead Quality Assurance’ roles. We anticipate that delegates will already be working in post-16 education as a teacher/ trainer/assessor or coach. Delegates may have a strong vocational background and some will have moved into teaching/ assessing as a secondary career.

Through participation in this important strand of the Solvendis Teaching Excellence programme you will complete two modules to help you develop and craft your assessment skills. These modules require 2 days of taught sessions and then for delegates to gather evidence from their own professional practice before returning to a 1:1 portfolio review.

Total attendance time is 2 days of delivery and then a separate 1:1 session once all evidence has been gathered and submitted.
All delegates must have access to a suitably qualified mentor who can offer advice, support and guidance during the practical application and portfolio creation.

Course Dates and times are as follows:

01 & 08 December 2025 (10.00 – 4.00)

Level 4 Certificate in Leading the IQA of Assessment Processes and Practice
2025-12-01 10:00 - 2025-12-15 16:00 | Online
This Level 4 accredited qualification is designed to develop delegates practical quality assurance skills helping them to become effective quality assurance practitioners in a range of Post-16 contexts both in the workplace and in the classroom. This course covers both ‘Internal Quality Assurance’ and ‘Lead Quality Assurance’ roles.

We anticipate that delegates will already be working in post-16 education as a teacher/ trainer/assessor or coach. Delegates may have a strong vocational background and some will have moved into teaching/ assessing as a secondary career.

Through participation in this important strand of the Solvendis Teaching Excellence programme you will complete three modules to help you develop and craft your assessment skills. These modules require 3 days of taught sessions and then for delegates to gather evidence from their own professional practice before returning to a 1:1 portfolio review.

Delivery is made up of 3 mandatory modules as follows:

Understanding the Principles and Practices of Internally Assuring the Quality of
Assessment
Internally Assure the Quality of Assessment
Plan, allocate and Monitor Work in Own Area of Responsibility

Total attendance time is 3 days of delivery and then a separate 1:1 session once all evidence has been gathered and submitted.
All delegates must have access to a suitably qualified mentor who can offer advice, support and guidance during the practical application and portfolio creation.

AmplifyFE Community Space: How Can We Increase Engagement in Maths with Interactive Technologies?
2025-12-05 12:00 - 12:30
Many maths learners find it difficult to connect with abstract course content, and as a result, not only do they struggle to learn the material, but they can also become demotivated, anxious, and disengaged. Fortunately, learning technologies for maths make lessons much more “touchable”, visual, and relevant, offering an effective means of engaging and motivating students, deepening their understanding of fundamental concepts, and reinforcing learning through practice.

In this session, we’ll explore some of the ways interactive maths technology can be used effectively in the classroom, from illuminating visualisations to interactive, learner-led activities that naturally foster investigation, collaboration, and discussion. Demonstrations will be done using Maple Learn, the online maths tool from Maplesoft, with examples taken from the A-Level and GCSE content collections, which conform to the AQA and Pearson exam specifications. These collections make it easy for educators to deliver engaging, interactive maths experiences to their learners through the use of customisable content created to meet the specific needs of their class.

Webinar leader: Karishma Punwani

Curriculum for the New Apprenticeship Landscape
2025-12-09 14:00 - 16:00 | Online
Plan your curriculum so apprentices are ready for assessment and the workplace.

Changes to how assessment is carried out will have a direct knock-on effect on how you design and deliver your curriculum. This practical workshop will help you map, sequence and refine your programme so it sets apprentices up to succeed – without adding unnecessary workload.

In this two hour workshop, Chris Cherry will take you through:

Building assessment into your curriculum from the outset.
Designing learning activities and content that develop the right competencies.
Linking sequencing and delivery to on-programme assessment points.
Using digital tools to save time and improve planning.
Stripping out “filler” and focusing on what works.

You will receive a CPD attendance certificate after the session, as evidence of your personal development.

About your session

The session will be facilitated by Chris Cherry an SDN specialist 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.

Who should attend?

Curriculum leads and planners.
Trainers and assessors involved in programme design.
Quality managers overseeing curriculum changes.

Apprenticeship compliance for leaders – CPD accredited
2025-12-10 14:00 - 2025-12-12 12:00 | 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.

Compliance essential series: Understanding apprenticeship financial management – Funding, forecasting, costs and budgeting
2026-01-14 10:00 - 2026-01-16 12:00 | Online
Apprenticeship financial management is complex.

Do you and your organisation know whether your provision is modelled effectively and profitably? Do you meet the compliance obligations for pricing and costs?

Getting your apprenticeship pricing right is essential for DfE compliance but perhaps more importantly for operating a financially sound apprenticeship programme. This three part webinar series is designed for role holders working in finance or operations to understand the funding methodology in apprenticeships, the compliance obligations and benefits of effective implementation.

For example:
How do you measure whether a new apprenticeship standard is financially viable for you to deliver?
Are you clear on what the apprenticeship actually costs you to deliver and where a profit margin can be made?
Can you forecast revenue effectively and identify profitability?
Are you clear on what are eligible and ineligible costs and that you aren’t overclaiming or underclaiming funding?
Are you reporting your training price breakdown correctly to the employer?
How do you recognise the apprentice’s prior learning and reflect this in your costings?
Are you applying the correct training price for your own employees (which must be at cost price)?

Session 1 – The funding model in England and funded components
Session 2 – Apprenticeship costs and pricing
Session 3 – Necessary infrastructure and variables

In the webinar series, we’ll help you to understand:.

The apprenticeship funding model in England
Understand price components of training and assessment
Eligible and ineligible costs, how to identify these at a budget level and implement an effective offer to an employer cost models and options
The importance of effective contracts with employers
The role of employer co-investment and models of collection to ensure compliance
Additional funding components: additional payments and learning support
The impact of prior learning on cost models
Employer-provider variables

You will receive an ‘Apprenticeship costs and budgeting tool’, ‘Revenue forecasting tool’ and a ‘Recognition of Prior learning calculator’ as well as a CPD attendance certificate as evidence of your personal development.

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 series is for anyone involved in the development of apprenticeship budgeting and financial operations. This could, for example, include finance staff, compliance staff, employer-facing staff, business development teams, commercial leads, senior managers / decision-makers.

Note: This programme is a 25/26 update to our previously delivered series on understanding apprenticeship costings.

Effective use of PDSAT and Monitoring Reports
2026-01-15 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
The DfE provide a suite of tools and reports to allow providers to conduct regular assurance and data checks to ensure they meet the funding rules and rectify anomalies in the ILR data
At this seminar, we will look in detail at the new Provider Data Self-Assessment Toolkit (PDSAT) Online Toolkit, Funding Information System (FIS) and key submission reports
The seminar will explain how the Provider Market Oversight Assurance (PMOA) team utilises PDSAT reports, along with how providers should use them in preparing for a PMOA assurance review
The seminar will provide reliable guidance and advice in the planning and usage of the PDSAT, FIS, FRM and submission reports in your ongoing internal assurance reviews
The seminar format encourages delegate participation and aims to ensure that attendees get reliable guidance and advice in the planning and usage of the PDSAT, FIS, FRM and submission reports in your ongoing internal assurance reviews.
As part of the day’s agenda we will:

ensure that your organisation has the knowledge to ensure full understanding of the PDSAT, FIS, FRM and submission reports for the academic year.
improve your understanding of the expectations around the tools and reports available to ensure appropriate control mechanisms are in place to provide assurance on your ILR data.
identify key submission reports and how to use them effectively, including the suite of FRM reports and any recent changes.
Provide guidance on the correction of data errors.

Ofsted Inspection Nominee Training (new framework)
2026-01-15 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
This seminar will have new content which focuses on the revised expectations of Nominee’s arising out of the implementation of Ofsted’s new inspection framework.
The nominee will continue to be at the centre of inspection and will a key person for their organisation.
This event will prepare potential nominees in the FE and Skills sector to carry out their role effectively before, during and after an Ofsted inspection.
As a result of the workshop, delegates will be better able to prepare themselves, their leaders, managers, staff, learners and employees for inspection, and show their provision in the best light.

Recognising and responding to harmful behaviours
2026-01-20 09:30 - 13:30 | Online
How confident are your staff in spotting and responding to harmful behaviours in line with their safeguarding responsibilities?
We’re excited to be teaming up with our friends at Psych-Logical to host this interactive online workshop on recognising and responding to harmful behaviours.
In this interactive, half-day course, we’ll explore how to recognise concerning behaviours and respond appropriately — especially in the context of PREVENT, exploitation, and harmful sexual behaviour.
Taking place on Tuesday 20 January 2026 (9.30am-1.00pm), this session will help you:

Spot behavioural indicators that may point to safeguarding concerns
Understand the psychology of grooming and the process of radicalisation
Build effective intervention strategies — to protect yourself and others
Approach difficult conversations using trauma-informed techniques
Identify referral routes and key support agencies

This is a practical course. Through real-life scenarios and peer discussion, you’ll come away with a clear plan of action and greater confidence in your duty of care.
You can book onto this workshop for £150+vat.
You will receive a CPD attendance certificate after the session, as evidence of your personal development.
Facilitators and speakers
Led by Louise Willis-Keeler, this session will be facilitated by safeguarding and behavioural specialists at Psych-Logical. Psych-Logical works with government, education providers and others to prevent mental health in children and young people, and is working closely with education providers as they deliver support and training to young people remotely.
Why SDN?
SDN works with partners, such as Psych-Logical to bring together top-quality specialists to support the FE and skills sector. We’ve worked with 1,000 training providers and over 5,000 practitioners over the last few years – allowing us to share practical insights and support you to take action.
Feedback from previous event attendees
“With just the right approach and pitch-perfect pace, Lou achieved the impossible by keeping all of us interested and actively involved with plenty of engagement opportunities. Lou has fantastic knowledge and warm and friendly style. We all came away feeling like it was time very well spent. Highly recommended.”
“Lou was really engaging, warm and creating a safe space for discussion and collaboration. The tasks where we made the characters were interesting and enjoyable.”
“The session was very informative and gave me new ideas to implement. Lou is an excellent trainer, extremely knowledgeable and approachable and used break out rooms well.”
Price and payment
To keep costs down, payment for the webinar series must be made online via credit card (book below). If you are a Local Authority, and unable to book via card, please email us on: events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk.
Terms and conditions
The Terms and Conditions (including our refund policy) for SDN events and webinars can be found here. 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 the SDN events team: events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk.

Preparing for an Apprenticeship Audit
2026-01-20 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
The responsibility for identifying irregularities in the claims process, in part rests with the DfEs Provider Risk and Assurance Team who have been instrumental in recovering millions of pounds from providers through the extrapolated clawback process.
In addition, the DfE undertake desktop Financial Audits on your monthly returns with a view to identifying errors, inconsistencies and potential overclaims.
At this important seminar we will talk through the audit requirements of the apprenticeship model, giving you tips and advice to ensure that your paperwork is robust and that you are prepared for the audit review.
The seminar will cover:

The DfE Audit Process and what you can expect
The Sample Testing Process, error reporting and the potential consequences of
getting it wrong
The key documentation you will need to have available and the importance of
ensuring its compliance with the funding guidance and audit requirements
The importance of using PDSATs and key Funding Monitoring Reports;

Professionally Speaking 2026: Exploring learner behaviour and the power of physical activity
2026-01-21 16:00 - 17:30
Across all settings, behaviour remains a topic that consistently tests educators’ resilience and creativity. Low-level disruption, emotional regulation, disengagement, and the growing pressures on learner wellbeing have all been widely reported.

In Professionally Speaking 2026, we will be joined by Professor Kelly Mackintosh of Swansea University who will explore this pressing challenge and the potential role physical activity can play in supporting positive behaviour and wellbeing.

Professor Mackintosh, an expert in physical activity for health, will:

explore the evidence linking physical activity to improved behaviour and emotional regulation

share practical examples of how registrants can embed movement into the day

offer new ideas to create calmer, more inclusive, and engaging learning environments

Following the keynote presentation, attendees will also have the opportunity to share their own experiences, and put questions directly to Professor Mackintosh in a live Q&A.

Whether you work directly with learners and young people, or in a supporting or policy role, this session will provide valuable perspectives on how physical activity can contribute to positive behaviour and wellbeing across all education settings.

It promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that blends research insight with practical, real-world relevance. So don’t miss out, secure your free ticket now.

More about the speaker

Professor Kelly Mackintosh is an expert in children’s physical activity for health, with a particular focus on how schools can help young people build active, healthy habits for life.

Based at Swansea University, her research explores how physical activity can influence behaviour, well-being, and learning, and how simple, evidence-based changes within education settings can make a lasting difference.

Professor Mackintosh has led and contributed to a range of innovative projects, including the Children’s Health, Activity, and Nutrition: Get Educated! (CHANGE!) Project, which aimed to improve primary school children’s well-being through better physical activity and eating behaviours. Her work has also explored creative approaches to engaging learners, from after-school interventions that combine active video games with multi-skills training, to high-intensity, military-ethos programmes designed to boost motivation and confidence.

Working collaboratively across disciplines, she has partnered with computer scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals to develop new ways of encouraging movement, including social goal-sharing technologies in a project entitled ‘Mission Possible’ and physical activity-based interventions supporting young people with long-term health conditions such as cystic fibrosis and asthma.

Professor Mackintosh has won several awards and is recognised internationally for her contributions to physical activity research, evidenced as a top 1% researcher in her area.

Her ongoing research continues to highlight the crucial role of physical activity not just in improving health, but in supporting behaviour, focus, and overall well-being among children and young people.
