Flexible learning programme for Britain's child-care managers

Flexible learning programme for Britain's child-care managers

Flexible learning programme for Britain's child-care managers

Keywords: Flexibility, Qualifications, Child care

From time to time, members of the child-care profession have been criticised for a lack of professionalism, especially in the field of management skills. Now, thanks to work pioneered by TADS, the Shaftesbury-based e-learning materials specialists, child-care professionals can achieve a nationally recognised management qualification through a new training programme that is partly delivered electronically.

The programme gives them the freedom to develop their management skills at the most convenient time for them. The initiative has received approval from NEBS management, and success in the programme leads to the award of the NEBS Introductory Certificate in Management (Childcare).

The programme comprises six half-day workshops with assessed work-based assignments covering key management skills. These are "mapped" against nationally established management standards.

Jenny Holt of TADS explained: "Initially available in Dorset, through funding from the Early Years Development & Childcare Partnership with Dorset Training and Enterprise Council (TEC), and in Wiltshire, thanks to further funding the programme is now being rolled out nationally, initially in counties in the South of England".

"Anyone who would like to enrol on the programme can contact TADS for details of their most convenient course", she added.

TADS' managing director, Jack Wills, commented: "In addition to the workshop sessions, students on the programme have access to TADS's e-learning management development materials to help them study as and when is most convenient for them. These materials include the acclaimed 'Creative Manager' programmes, which are available in a range of formats, including paper-based, audio and video cassettes, CD-ROM and even DVD".

For further details, contact TADS, 37 High Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8JE. Tel: 01747 855888; Fax: 01747 855889; Internet: http://www.learningproducts.co.uk