Mainstream fostering training policy
The following policy outlines the training expectations of all foster carers. Eligibility for tier fees is linked to training attendance. Therefore, if the required number of training courses are not completed in each year of fostering, your tier level can be reduced.
To be eligible for Tier 1 Fee: foster carers must have completed pre-approval training.
To be eligible for Tier 2 Fee: foster carers must have completed 2 years of fostering and completed the expected training as outlined below.
Pre-approval training (tier 0)
The primary carer (and secondary carer if you are a couple) must complete the following 3 training courses prior to attendance at fostering panel:
- skills to foster
- first aid: emergency childcare (refreshed every 3 years)
- safeguarding children (refreshed every 3 years
Induction
Following your approval at fostering panel, the primary carer (and secondary carer if you are a couple) will receive information from the training officer regarding:
- foster carer training expectations
- use of the training website and elearning websites
- completion of the TSD Standards workbook
Within your first year of fostering (tier 1)
The primary carer will be expected to complete the TSD Standards workbook and 3 training courses within this year:
- attachment
- contact
- safer caring (refreshed every 3 years)
The secondary carer will be expected to support the primary carer to complete sections of the TSD Standards workbook and complete the following training course:
- safer caring (refreshed every 3 years)
Subsequent years of fostering (tier 2)
The primary carer will be expected to complete 4 training courses each year until the following core training is completed. This can be online or through virtual/classroom training. The carer (with guidance from their social worker) can choose in which order they complete the core training courses from the list below.
The secondary carer will be expected to complete 2 training course each year until all core training is completed. This can be online or through virtual/classroom training courses. The carer (with guidance from their social worker) can choose in which order they complete the core training courses – please view training modules for all core training.
- allegations
- supporting the health of looked after children
- behaviour management
- equality and diversity
- de-escalation
If caring for children under 5 years:
- early child development
- transitions: move to permanency
If caring for under 8 years:
- play therapy
If caring for age 5 and over:
- educational achievement
- internet safety
If caring for age 8 and over:
- child sexual exploitation
Each following year
The primary carer (with guidance from their social worker can choose 4 training courses to complete each year that meets their identified learning needs.
The secondary carer (with guidance from their social worker) can choose 2 training course to complete each year that meets their identified learning needs.