Training available at the Social Care Academy for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent

Based on the Manager Induction Standards, the 11 modules support the development of aspiring and new managers. Containing real-life examples of good practice, the single modules can be used to update learning or the full suite can be used as an introduction to management.   100% of the cost of these modules can be reimbursed via the Adult Social Care Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS). Read more

Join us for the Social Care Academy Feedback Forum, an engaging event designed to gather valuable insights into the academy. This session will provide a platform for you to share your experiences, suggestions, and ideas, which will directly influence the academy. Your feedback is crucial in shaping the future of our academy, ensuring we continue to meet your needs and enhance the quality of social care. This is a face-to-face event that will provide you with an opportunity to make your voice heard and contribute to meaningful improvements in how your academy is developed. Session Details: 29 April 2025 - 10am - 12pm County Buildings, White Room Martin Street, Stafford ST16 2LE Drinks will be provided. All bookings or unenrolment changes should be emailed to socialcareacademy@staffordshire.gov.uk Finding the venue: Car Parking Please ensure that you check prior to attending the training where is most suitable for you to park, we recommend that you refer to Stafford Borough Council's website for car parking information in Stafford. The closest car park is the Waterfront car park. Read more

Apprenticeships are a vital pathway for individuals seeking to develop their career and skills. These programs offer a unique combination of practical experience and theoretical knowledge, equipping apprentices with the skills and competencies needed to excel in various roles. Apprentices spend a significant portion of their time working alongside experienced staff, this hands-on approach allows them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios Upon completion of an apprenticeship, individuals are well-positioned to pursue further qualifications and career advancement. Many apprentices continue their education through higher-level apprenticeships.   Customer Service Practitioner and Business Administrator Customer Service Practitioner (level 2) and Business administrator (level 3)   Administration staff in social care, such as office administrators and receptionists, play a pivotal role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. They handle essential tasks like managing records, scheduling appointments, and coordinating communication. Their support helps maintain an organized and efficient environment, which is critical for the delivery of high-quality care services. These qualifications are ideal for someone already established in their business administrator role, refining their skills or someone who is looking to develop their foundational knowledge. Local Partners   Customer Service Practitioner (Stoke-on-Trent College) Customer Service Practitioner Apprenticeship (South Staffordshire College) Business Administrator (Stoke-on-Trent College) Business Administration Apprenticeship (South Staffordshire College)     What to do next Speak with your line manager or supervisor about your interest in your chosen apprenticeship. You will need to agree which institution will provide your apprenticeship, local Colleges and Universities deliver apprenticeship courses but other options can be identified through the Government apprenticeship training courses page. There is often financial support available to support an apprenticeship, contact Adele.Cooke@mpft.nhs.uk for a discussion on what levy funding is available. Read more

This suite of bitesize digital skills e-learning modules has been developed for all staff working in adult social care. Each module looks at one of 7 areas of digital knowledge and skills under the Digital Skills Framework (opens in a new tab). Whilst each module can be completed separately, they complement each other, and completing the full suite of modules will ensure well-rounded learning of digital skills that can support your knowledge and use of technology in the delivery of care. Read more

These courses are offered and completed through local colleges within Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. They are held externally to the Social Care Academy. There may be costs associated with these courses, but you should contact the college to better understand if you are entitled to funding support. We recommend enrolling in this course as a reminder, and to see the more detailed descriptions of each college's offer. Courses Introduction - British Sign Language Introduction to British Sign Language (South Staffordshire College) The course covers introductions, greetings, and Deaf community etiquette, including eye contact and body language. Participants will gain confidence, improve communication skills, and learn BSL grammar, numbers up to 100, and cultural differences between deaf and hearing communities. Level 1 - British Sign Language British Sign Language - Level 1 (South Staffordshire College) The Level 1 Award in British Sign Language qualification is structured to equip learners with the ability to communicate with deaf individuals using British Sign Language (BSL) across various subjects that involve basic, everyday language. Participants will develop foundational skills and confidence in both the production and comprehension of BSL. Level 2 - British Sign Language British Sign Language - Level 2 (South Staffordshire College) The Level 2 Certificate in British Sign Language enhances BSL skills for better everyday communication with Deaf individuals. It is suitable for those wanting to develop intermediate BSL skills, seek certification, are close to Deaf individuals, wish to advance from Level 1, or are interested in personal growth. Read more

Apprenticeships are a vital pathway for individuals seeking to develop their career and skills. These programs offer a unique combination of practical experience and theoretical knowledge, equipping apprentices with the skills and competencies needed to excel in various roles. Apprentices spend a significant portion of their time working alongside experienced staff, this hands-on approach allows them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios Upon completion of an apprenticeship, individuals are well-positioned to pursue further qualifications and career advancement. Many apprentices continue their education through higher-level apprenticeships.   Care Worker Adult care worker (level 2)   A Care Worker focuses on providing essential support and care to adults with varying needs. They assist with daily activities, promote independence, and ensure the well-being of individuals in a variety of settings. This qualification is ideal for someone who is new to care, to support them with developing their foundational skills. Local Partners Adult Care Work Apprenticeship (NSCG)   Lead Care Worker Lead adult care worker (level 3)   A Lead Care Worker takes on more responsibility than a care worker, often supervising and supporting other care staff. They play a critical role in planning and delivering care tailored to the needs of individuals, ensuring high standards of practice. Lead Care Workers act as a bridge between the care team and management, fostering effective communication and collaboration within the workplace. This qualification is ideal for someone who has recently progressed to a Lead Care Worker role or who is looking to develop the required skills for the role. Local Partners Lead Care Worker Apprenticeship (NSCG)   What to do next Speak with your line manager or supervisor about your interest in your chosen apprenticeship. You will need to agree which institution will provide your apprenticeship, local Colleges and Universities deliver apprenticeship courses but other options can be identified through the Government apprenticeship training courses page. There is often financial support available to support an apprenticeship, contact Adele.Cooke@mpft.nhs.uk for a discussion on what levy funding is available. Read more