Foster Care Training
Find out more about the foster parent training courses that we offer our foster parents at Family Fostering Partners.
Foster Parent Training Opportunities
At Family Fostering Partners, we provide a comprehensive foster parent training programme designed to equip foster parents with the essential skills and knowledge needed to provide the best possible care to vulnerable children. Our foster care training programme encompasses a range of courses, including the introductory Skills to Foster Training that all foster parents have to attend, other mandatory training on core fostering, as well as more specialised workshops that are tailored to specific foster parents and the children in their care.
Our foster parent training courses are tailored to meet the specific needs of our foster parents and the children in their care. Whether you’re new to fostering or have years of experience, our foster care training programme will keep you up to date with the latest legislation and practice, as well as giving you practical skills to support you on your fostering journey.
The first foster care training that all of our foster parents are required to undertake is our initial 3-day Skills to Foster Course. These sessions are organised and hosted by our experienced staff and further supported by foster carers within our agency.
This course covers essential topics such as safeguarding, attachment and trauma, sibling relationships, and an introduction to fostering with Family Fostering Partners. Our goal is to provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to thrive as a foster parent.
At Family Fostering Partners, we recognise that foster care training can be intimidating, especially for those new to fostering. That’s why we work hard to ensure that every training course, from our initial Skills to Foster through to more in depth and ongoing foster parent training, will be held in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Our foster parent training sessions are scheduled during school term times, from 10 am to 2 pm, to minimise disruption to your family life. We aim to hold all of our foster care training in the local area where our foster parents live, enabling you to build connections with other foster carers in your area. Just as importantly, we provide refreshments and lunch during these sessions to ensure your foster care training experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible!
Our experienced training manager, link workers, and support staff lead our foster parent training sessions, providing guidance and practical examples relevant to the children in your care. Additionally, we collaborate with experts in the field to offer diverse learning experiences, ensuring we stay up to date with evolving fostering practices, and that our foster care training remains relevant and insightful.
Your Link Worker and the Training Manager will work alongside you to develop a personalised foster parent training plan tailored to your needs as a foster parent, and the needs of the children in your care. They will guide you through our training programs, identifying which courses are mandatory, and which would be well suited for your continued foster parent training and development.
Additionally, they offer one-on-one instruction and guidance to complement your training and support your professional development as a foster parent.
You do not need any prior qualifications to apply to be a foster parent or to have had previous foster care training. We believe that with the right training and support, becoming a successful foster parent is achievable regardless of your previous qualifications.
Our Foster Parent Training Manager Hannah explains ‘Whilst qualifications and experience are beneficial, they are not mandatory. Our goal is to help you feel confident in your abilities through our training, guidance, and ongoing support.’
Mandatory Foster Parent Training Courses
We recognise the significant responsibility that comes with being a foster parent. That’s why we host a range of mandatory training courses to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to support vulnerable children effectively. Training such as paediatric first aid training, is mandatory, and an essential part of our foster care training programme.
In addition to our mandatory training, you will also have access to Foster Talk. Foster Talk is an independent service that provides free information talks and training to foster parents.
Our Foster Care Training Ethos
At Family Fostering Partners, we teach attachment-focused methods in our foster care training programs to ensure that children receive the best possible care and support. We believe in promoting physical and mental growth through care, affection, and encouragement. Our training philosophy is grounded in the principles of therapeutic care, as we believe they offer children the most promising opportunities for future success.
We are committed to providing high-quality foster care training programs that empower our foster parents to make a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Whether you’re embarking on your fostering journey or seeking to expand your skills and knowledge, we have a range of training courses tailored to meet your needs. Join us in creating nurturing environments where children can thrive and achieve their full potential. Book an initial call with our friendly team of fostering advisors.
Thinking About Fostering?
Are you ready to take the first step towards becoming a foster carer? Fill out the contact form below. Our dedicated team will be delighted to assist and guide you.