4079 Courses

Learn the skills of being more confident and assertive in the workplace plus be able to influence people to do the things you would like them to do. Course overview Duration: 1 day (6.5 hours) This ‘Assertiveness and Influencing Techniques’ workshop is interactive and practical and facilitated by a subject matter expert via a virtual platform. Exercises and breakout rooms will be used during this training. Delegates are encouraged to login from a location where they feel safe to turn on their camera, use their microphones and engage in conversations as required. Objectives  The aim of this course is to introduce delegates to a variety of influencing skills and techniques to deal with aggression and challenging situations. These skills and techniques will improve confidence and personal effectiveness when working in groups / meetings. By the end of the course delegates will be able to recognise and define what assertive behaviour is and its benefits, the impact of non-verbal communication and how to use it to enhance influencing behaviours. Content What is influencing and assertiveness? Sources of power Influencing skills and choosing the right approach When to be assertive and alternative behaviours Assertive behaviour Behavioural styles and their impact on working relationships Identifying different behaviour types; assertive, aggressive, passive Building confidence and negotiating a win/win result Developing Skills Communication skills – the language of influence and communication dynamics Different influencing techniques and when to use them The art of saying ‘No’ - having the confidence to challenge Receiving criticism assertively and assertiveness behaviour analysis The language of assertion Meeting skills Giving and receiving feedback Dealing with confrontation, aggression and challenges in a confident manner Practical Exercises and Action Planning Practical exercises will be used throughout the training and the training will culminate with the creation of a personal action plan

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High quality specifications are of paramount importance in achieving the right technical performance and value for money. This long-established training programme has been developed to help those involved in producing specifications to create high quality documents in an organised and effective way. It provides a sound foundation for those new to the topic whilst at the same time offering new insights to those with more experience. The programme emphasises the need for a clear definition of requirements combined with the ability to communicate those requirements effectively to third parties. A structured method of preparing specifications is provided, and a range of practical techniques is presented, to enable participants to put the principles into practice. The commercial and contractual role of specifications is also addressed. The objectives of the workshop are to: Provide a clear understanding of the role and purpose of specifications Present a framework for organising and producing specifications Define the key steps involved in creating effective specifications Demonstrate methods for assisting in defining requirements Provide tools and techniques for scoping and structuring specifications Show the role of specifications in managing variations and changes to scope Present methods to assist the writing and editing of specifications Review how specifications should be issued and controlled DAY ONE 1 Introduction Review of course objectives Review of participants' needs and objectives 2 Creating effective specifications The role of specifications in communicating requirements The costs, benefits and qualities of effective specifications Understanding the differences between verbal and written communication The five key steps of 'POWER' writing: prepare-organise-write-edit-release Exercise: qualities of an effective specification 3 Step 1: Preparing to write - defining readership and purpose; the specification and the contract Designing the specifications required; applying BS 7373 Defining the purpose, readership and title of each document Effective procedures for writing, issuing and controlling specifications The roles and responsibilities of the key players Understanding contracts; the contractual role of the specification Integrating and balancing the technical and commercial requirements Writing specifications to achieve the appropriate contract risk strategy Deciding how to specify: when to use functional and technical specifications The role of specifications in managing variations and changes to scope 4 Case study 1 Teams review a typical project scenario and identify the implications for the specification Feedback and discussion 5 Step 2: Organising the specification content Defining the need and establishing user requirements Deciding what issues the specification should cover Scoping techniques: scope maps, check lists, structured brainstorming Clarifying priorities: separating needs and desires Dealing with requirements that are difficult to quantify Useful techniques: cost benefit analysis, QFD, Pareto analysis 6 Case study 2 Teams apply the scoping techniques to develop the outline contents for a specification Feedback and discussion DAY TWO 7 Step 2: Organising the specification content (cont) Deciding what goes where; typical contents and layout for a specification The three main segments: introductory, key and supporting Creating and using model forms: the sections and sub-sections Detailed contents of each sub-section Tools and techniques for outlining and structuring specifications 8 Case study 3 Teams develop the detailed specification contents using a model form Feedback and discussion 9 Step 3: Writing the specification The challenges of written communication Identifying and understanding the readers needs Choosing and using the right words; dealing with jargon Problem words; will, shall, must, etc; building a glossary Using sentence structure and punctuation to best effect Understanding the impact of style, format and appearance Avoiding common causes of ambiguity Being concise and ensuring clarity Choosing and using graphics to best effect Exercises and examples 10 Step 4: Editing the specification Why editing is difficult; how to develop a personal editing strategy Key areas to review: structure, content, accuracy, clarity, style and grammar Editing tools and techniques 11 Step 5: Releasing and controlling the specification Key requirements for document issue and control Final formatting and publication issues; document approval Requirements management: managing revisions and changes 12 Course review and action planning What actions should be implemented to improve specifications? Conclusion

All my workshops are available as private bookings for family days. Whittling, Firecraft, Bark Crafts & Bushcraft Activities can all be arranged on a date and time that suit you. Activities can be modified for children of all ages. Travel - All my workshops can be run at any location within the UK. If you have your own space, inside or out, I am able to travel to you to teach. The price above is a 'starting from' price, and will vary depending on participant numbers, location and what activities are arranged. Get in touch here to arrange a day you wont forget! 


Understand how to effectively manage conflict and learn that conflict can be healthy and need not damage relationships. Course overview Duration: 1 day (6.5 hours) Conflict and differences of opinion are inevitable in the today’s fast moving, complex business world, some would argue they are even necessary. This highly interactive and practical course addresses the many aspects of effectively managing conflict and will help you ensure that conflict can be healthy and need not damage the relationship. This workshop has been specifically designed to give you an opportunity to learn and test a range of influencing and conflict handling models and techniques. The course is aimed at anyone who interacts with others on a regular basis. Objectives  By the end of the course you will be able to: Utilise influencing skills to pre-empt and defuse conflict Resolve conflict by choosing the right approach Recognise the impact of non-verbal communication in managing conflict Use language skills necessary to get you message across in the ‘right’ way Present your case in a reasonable and responsible manner Identify behaviours that can help or hinder interactions with others Apply different techniques for managing conflict positively and for dealing with aggression Content Developing Influence Networking Sources of influence Influencing techniques Effective Behaviour Choosing the right approach Techniques to pre-empt or defuse conflict Behavioural styles and their impact on working relationships Triggers to aggressive behaviour Managing conflict flash points Dealing with different behaviour types Developing Skills Communication skills in conflict situations Using the right language Verbal and non verbal communications Managing our body language Your conflict management style analysis Thomas Killman Conflict Handling Instrument Working in groups Practical exercises and case studies The language of mediation Transactional Analysis Practical Practical exercises Case studies Personal action planning

Explore a senses-led approach to designing your feel-good home or work space on this exclusive Edinburgh workshop

Join me at the Big Penny Social for a special evening of hand stitching. I will take you through the very cool technique of chickenscratch embroidery, which is done on gingham fabric with normnal embroidery threads. Simple techniques can be combined in endless ways and colours to adorn clothes, homewares, notebook covers, all kinds.

Stone Carving made a return to the Phoenix last year when we welcomed Mark Stonestreet to come teach us the joys of creating free-standing abstract sculpture. It was an absolutely fantastic course! This year Mark is coming back for more and this time we’re giving the students more stone to create with and more time – 5 days to be precise! The dusty nature of stone means that we will be working under a marquee set within the studio’s beautiful meadow – what better way to spend your summer – especially when none of us can go abroad? Outside of a global pandemic, Mark spends half the year creating sculpture in the South Downs and the other half in Mamallapuram in India – a village of over 200 stone carving workshops. His life is in stone and I liked him the instant we met. He is everything you would expect a stone carver to be – sturdy, weathered (meant in the nicest possible way, I promise Mark!) with a warm, no-nonsense personality that immediately puts you at ease. Our students are in safe hands working with him and I cannot wait to see what they will achieve this year! 23/08/2021 - 27/08/2021 10:00 am - 4:30 pm Location: The Phoenix Studio This fun course includes: Informal, relaxed & attentive guidance for every student, provided by Mark Stonestreet Step-by-step demonstrations covering… How to work with the tools and stone safely, How to create an abstract design that will look good and have structural integrity, How to transfer your design to the stone and carve into it efficiently to create the basic shape, How to add detail and refine the carved form, How to finish and present the form (looking at finishes, treatment, and mounting). This course is for you if: You want to realise drawings and 2D designs into 3D or have an introduction to visualizing your ideas in 3D You want to explore your creativity but lack the confidence to do so on your own You want to learn how to work safely and competently in stone You want to get away from it all and immerse yourself in a fun, creative environment Suitable for? Anyone, but please note that you will be using a chisel and mallet throughout the three days and this will take it’s toll on your arms and body. We generally limit the age to 16 years old+ though exceptions can be made where appropriate. Please contact James Orts and ask. What is included in the price? Five full days tuition (10 am-4.30 pm) Materials, including a piece of Portland stone (approximately 55cm x 25cm x 22cm), safety gear, and the tools you will need for when on the course You could consider making a simple printed course handout outlining the technique’s main principles and useful links/suppliers – Totally your choice though! Tea, coffee, biscuits/cakes Use of a beautiful, purpose-built art studio with all the equipment & materials you will need Beautiful countryside setting Pre-course prep It would be useful to gather, sketch out or think about what abstract shapes you are drawn to. Mark will be able to provide ideas as well and advise you on which of your ideas may work best so having some ideas to work from would be useful. You will be working outdoors so come prepared for the forecasted weather and all students must work in sturdy shoes. You will be sent an automated email on booking which prompts you towards documents that help you prepare for your time here. If this does not happen then please email James before the course.   Beyond The Course Having completed a Phoenix Studio course many of our students choose to explore the medium further. They may come on another weekend course, start coming to our Phoenix Art Club Sessions or our Creative Monday Sessions, or carry on independently at home. We are more than happy to help and advise you in taking those first creative steps! Need accommodation? If you are travelling from further afield and would like to stay in the area for your visit then have a look at our recommend B&Bs and hotels. Click here for the list.

Are you looking for ways to boost your confidence and increase your self-esteem? In this powerful talk, you’ll discover proven techniques to help you build self-confidence and overcome self-doubt. Whether you’re facing personal challenges, career obstacles, or simply want to feel more empowered in your daily life, this session will provide practical strategies to strengthen your self-belief and enhance your self-worth. Learn how to shift your mindset, embrace your unique strengths, and unlock the inner confidence you need to thrive. If you’re ready to take control of your journey and boost your self-esteem, this talk will provide you with the tools and motivation to succeed. Take the first step toward a more empowered, confident you today!

Learn the basics of financial awareness and better understand the language used by accountants and how financial statements fit together within organisations. Course overview Duration: 2 days (13 hours)  This workshop will provide participants with a grasp of basic financial awareness, to help them to better understand the language used by accountants and how financial statements fit together. Training is done in a jargon-free way that is aimed building attendees’ confidence in using financial terms and concepts within their organisation.  Competent financial management has many aspects, it is wide reaching and requires multiple skills but if participants work to become organised and effective in planning, these skills can be easily acquired. There is a misconception that to be a good operational manager dealing with financial decisions people must be accounting or numerical geniuses. There are basic skills that attendees can easily learn that will support them in those areas.  Objectives  By the end of the course you will be able to: Identify the importance of financial management and its impact Identify the link between financial information and decision making Set, manage, monitor and review budgets Analyse financial statements Demonstrate the link between the statements, budgets and decision making. Content Financial Management Budgeting process (generic / client specific if possible) Forecasting and re forecasting process The need for accurate forecasting Accrual v cash accounting revisited Financial Objectives of the business Users of the accounts Financial Tools Depreciation and Amortisation Accruals and Prepayments Deferred and Accrued Income Costs, Opex and Capex Financial Statements The Income Statement The Balance Sheet Understanding capital employed The relationship between balance sheet and income statement The cash flow statement Profitability: gross, operating and net margins Review of client’s management information reports Building the Business Case Break even analysis Discounted Cash Flow Discount factors Net Present Value (NPV) Internal Rate of Return (IRR)