3677 Courses delivered Live Online

Discover the amazing features this tool has to offer in combining, collating and editing documents and the forms, markups and redaction techniques available. Duration 1 day (6.5 hours) Overview This Adobe Acrobat course looks at the powerful features of the tool quite often overlooked.  The course requires the use of either the Standard or Professional versions of Acrobat as the free Acrobat Reader only has limited functionality. Learn how to combine documents into a single file, edit and mark up PDFs, compare documents, redact data from documents and create fillable forms. Objectives  By the end of the course you will be able to: Create PDFs from other tools Set security Collate and combine files into a single PDF Edit PDF files Complete and sign documents Create fillable forms Mark up PDF documents Compare files Redact data Content Creating PDFs Building PDF documents from Word, Excel and PowerPoint Setting PDF options for print, image quality and security Working in Acrobat Home, Tools and Document Views Using the Navigation Panel and Pane Floating toolbar and Contextual menus Collating and Combining Files Combining multiple files into a single PDF Adding extra files Deleting pages and reorganising pages Editing Files Editing text and graphics Adding text and images Adding headers and footers, watermarks and backgrounds Adding Links Adding manual links Automatic links Completing and signing documents Using fill and sign to complete forms Adding signatures Creating Fillable and Signable Forms Prepare a form Autodetect fillable fields Add manual fillable fields Adding drop downs, check boxes, etc. Naming fields Setting field properties Previewing the form Marking Up Documents Marking up changes Using sticky notes Using the highlighter pen Adding stamps Attaching documents and audio Replying to comments Comparing Files Selecting settings Comparison report Reviewing differences Using the changes pane Redacting Data (Acrobat Professional only) Setting redaction options Redacting chosen text Searching and redacting words, phrases or patterns Redacting whole pages Applying redaction

Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop Masterclass Training, your gateway to Photoshop and Illustrator. Learn with the best software for publishing and marketing materials. This comprehensive training covers Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, offering step-by-step tutorials tailored for creative professionals. Click here for more info: Website Duration: 10 hours Approach: Individualized, Tailored Content, Flexible Pace, Personal Support Scheduling Flexibility: 1-on-1 sessions from Mon to Sat, 9 am to 7 pm, based on your availability. Course Title: Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator Mastery Workshop Duration: 10 Hours (Divided into 10 Modules) Module 1: Introduction to Adobe Photoshop (1 hour) Familiarization with Photoshop interface and tools Understanding bitmap graphics and resolution Basic image editing techniques (cropping, resizing, color adjustments) Significance of layers in design Module 2: Essential Photoshop Tools (1 hour) Mastery of selection tools (Marquee, Lasso, Magic Wand) Understanding brushes and their settings Introduction to the Pen tool for precise selections Working adeptly with layers and layer styles Module 3: Advanced Image Editing (1 hour) Proficiency in advanced color adjustments (Curves, Levels, Hue/Saturation) Techniques for photo retouching and manipulation Creating composite images using blending modes Application of filters and special effects for creative designs Module 4: Introduction to Adobe Illustrator (1 hour) Exploration of Illustrator interface and tools Working with vector graphics and paths Basic shapes and drawing tools Understanding anchor points and handles Module 5: Creating Vector Artwork (1 hour) Expert use of the Pen tool for precise vector illustration Creating and editing shapes and objects Mastery in handling gradients and patterns Understanding the Appearance panel Module 6: Illustrator Typography (1 hour) Text tools and advanced formatting options Crafting text effects and artistic typography Integration of text with shapes and images Working adeptly with text on a path Module 7: Combining Photoshop and Illustrator (1 hour) Importing Illustrator files into Photoshop and vice versa Efficient use of smart objects and vector shapes in Photoshop Creation of custom brushes and patterns in Illustrator for seamless use in Photoshop Designing posters and flyers by combining elements from both software Module 8: Integration with InDesign (1 hour) Exporting assets from Photoshop and Illustrator for InDesign Crafting layouts in InDesign using assets from both programs Understanding print and digital design nuances Preparing files for printing and online use Module 9: Advanced Techniques and Tips (1 hour) Creating custom actions and automation in Photoshop Mastery in advanced selection techniques Utilizing Illustrator's advanced tools (Pathfinder, Shape Builder, etc.) Exploration of creative design styles and trends Module 10: Final Projects and Portfolio (1 hour) Individual or group projects incorporating Photoshop and Illustrator skills Detailed review and feedback on the projects Preparation of a portfolio showcasing the work   Upon completion of the Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator Mastery Workshop, participants will: Master Advanced Design Techniques: Acquire expert skills in both Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, delving into advanced tools, filters, and effects for intricate design work. Seamlessly Integrate Software: Learn to seamlessly integrate Photoshop and Illustrator, enabling the creation of dynamic and visually appealing designs by leveraging the unique strengths of both programs. Develop Creative Problem-Solving: Cultivate creative problem-solving abilities by exploring diverse design styles and industry-relevant trends, empowering the creation of innovative and captivating visuals. Construct Professional Portfolios: Gain the expertise to construct professional portfolios, showcasing a diverse range of projects incorporating advanced Photoshop and Illustrator techniques. Collaborate on Real-World Projects: Collaborate effectively on real-world design projects, combining Photoshop and Illustrator skills to produce high-quality marketing materials, promotional content, and digital artwork. Career Opportunities: Upon mastering Photoshop and Illustrator, participants can pursue a range of creative careers, including: Graphic Designer: Craft visually appealing designs for print and digital media, ranging from marketing materials to social media graphics. Digital Illustrator: Create intricate digital illustrations and artworks for various applications, including book covers, digital publications, and games. Web Designer: Develop engaging and user-friendly website layouts and elements, optimizing user experience through appealing visuals. Advertising Artist: Design compelling advertisements for print and online platforms, captivating audiences and promoting brands effectively. Freelance Designer: Work as a freelance designer, taking on diverse projects from clients and agencies, showcasing versatility in both Photoshop and Illustrator skills. By mastering these Adobe tools, participants open doors to a multitude of creative opportunities in the ever-expanding digital design industry. Skills Acquired: Participants in the Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop Masterclass Training will develop advanced skills in vector graphics, digital illustration, and photo manipulation using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Key skills include: Precision Vector Graphic Design in Illustrator Creative Digital Illustration Techniques Advanced Photo Editing and Manipulation in Photoshop Job Opportunities: Upon completion, individuals can pursue roles such as: Graphic Designer Digital Illustrator Advertising Creative Branding Specialist Elevate Your Design Skills: Master Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, crafting stunning graphics, logos, and digital illustrations. Understand design principles, tools, and workflows. Receive a recognized Certificate of Completion and access recorded lessons for future reference. Expert Guidance, Your Schedule: Learn from certified experts, tailored to your timetable-flexible online or in-person sessions, Monday to Sunday, 9 am to 8 pm. Enjoy lifetime email support for seamless learning. Unleash Your Creativity Today: Enroll now to ignite your creative potential in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Elevate your designs effortlessly.

About this Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) This 3 half-day Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) course will help participants grasp the idea of real-world risk management and how this relates to the cyber world. The VILT course will cover topics surrounding identifying cyber risks and vulnerabilities, guidance on applying administrative actions, and comprehensive solutions to ensure your organization is adequately secure and protected. The VILT course will guide participants on how to conduct a security risk assessment for their organization, and equip them with the skills to develop a risk compliance assessment plan as well as methods to develop risk management strategies which can improve their organization's security posture. The VILT course has at least a 30% hands-on approach through the use of Table Top Exercises. The VILT course will cover the following modules: Introduction to Risk Assessments (RA) Threat Actors and Their Motivations Threat and Risk Assessment Critical Controls Identification Maturity Assessment Treated Cyber Risk Profile Target Cyber Risk Profile and Strategy Target Audience The VILT course is intended for professionals responsible for organizational information and security system and those involved in operating and maintenance of critical information and IT network & sotware systems. Professionals who are designated as the Single Point of Accountability (SPoA) as well as system auditors will find this course useful. Course Level Basic or Foundation Training Methods The VILT course will be delivered online in 3 half-day sessions comprising 4 hours per day, with 2 x 10 minutes break per day, including time for lectures, discussion, quizzes and short classroom exercises. Course Duration: 3 half-day sessions, 4 hours per session (12 hours in total). This VILT course is delivered in partnership with ENGIE Laborelec. Trainer Your expert course leader is a is specialized in cybersecurity risk management. Before joining ENGIE, she worked for The National Cybersecurity Agency of France (ANSSI) based in Paris (France) and for Deloitte Belgium located in Zaventem (Belgium). She has been involved in cybersecurity projects focusing on the principle of protecting critical infrastructures. Her different experiences in Cyber Security, Anti-Money Laundering and Global Trade Compliance (including Export Control and Customs) gave her the opportunity to use methodologies tackling strategic, operational and financial control issues at all levels of an organization: people, business processes, IT applications and infrastructure, legal and regulatory compliance. She was an EBIOS Risk Manager (RM) trainer while she worked for the French government; EBIOS RM is the French method for assessing and treating digital risks. She also had the opportunity to represent France towards European institutions and other relevant stakeholders for topics related to cybersecurity risk management. POST TRAINING COACHING SUPPORT (OPTIONAL) To further optimise your learning experience from our courses, we also offer individualized 'One to One' coaching support for 2 hours post training. We can help improve your competence in your chosen area of interest, based on your learning needs and available hours. This is a great opportunity to improve your capability and confidence in a particular area of expertise. It will be delivered over a secure video conference call by one of our senior trainers. They will work with you to create a tailor-made coaching program that will help you achieve your goals faster. Request for further information about post training coaching support and fees applicable for this. Accreditions And Affliations

Why choose Vectorworks Evening Training Course? Course Link. This course led by certified expert, this course offers flexibility for evening learning. Choose in-person or live online sessions to master Vectorworks in architecture, interior design, and landscaping. Enroll now even after business hours! Duration: 10 hrs. Method: 1-on-1, Personalized attention. Schedule: Tailor your own schedule by pre-booking a convenient hour of your choice, available from Mon to Sat between 9 am and 7 pm. The Vectorworks course provides comprehensive training in computer-aided design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) using the powerful Vectorworks software. This hands-on, instructor-led course covers 2D drafting, technical drawing, and 3D modeling, enabling participants to apply Vectorworks effectively in real-world projects. Key Features: Hands-on, instructor-led classroom training. Practical Vectorworks CAD projects for real-world application. Part-time evening or weekend options available. 1-2-1 Private learning experience. Module 1: Grasping CAD and Vectorworks Understanding the Role of CAD in Design Getting Acquainted with Vectorworks Software Module 2: Configuring Your Workspace Customizing Your Workspace Essential Options and Preferences Module 3: Mastering Foundational Drawing Skills Techniques for Drawing Object Selection Methods Module 4: Advanced Object Manipulation Merging Shapes Reflecting Objects Rotating Objects Grouping Elements Module 5: Precision Drawing and Scaling Techniques Working with Scale Setting Preferences for Accuracy Creating and Saving Templates Module 6: Achieving Accurate Object Placement Ensuring Drawing Precision Precise Object Movement Module 7: Advanced Editing Methods Utilizing Fillet Tool Applying Offset Function Module 8: Understanding Object Attributes and Groups Basic Attribute Management Editing Object Groups Module 9: Object Duplication Techniques Linear Duplicates Rectangular Duplicates Circular Duplicates Module 10: Crafting Room Plans Designing Walls Incorporating Windows and Doors Module 11: Development of Room Plans Methods for Room Plan Drawing Module 12: Exploring Additional Attributes Hatch Patterns Gradients Image Fills Module 13: Creating Elevation Drawings Elevation Drawing Techniques Effective Approaches Module 14: Importing Images for Graphic Use Graphic Illustration Integrating Images Module 15: Symbols and Resource Handling Symbol Creation Introduction to Resource Browser Module 16: Organizing Drawings Using Design Layers Optimizing Design Layer Utilization Module 17: Labeling Drawings and Title Blocks Drawing Labels Title Block Text Placement Module 18: Plotting and Printing Methods User Interface Navigation and Terminology Printing Approaches Module 19: Generating Drawing Sheets A1, A2, and A3 Sheet Formats Module 20: Utilizing Viewports Effectively Managing Multiple Views Module 21: Professional Model Presentation Techniques Paper Space Presentation Conversion to PDF Formats Module 22: File and Project Management Module 23: Object Display and Terminology Module 24: Objects and Data Management Module 25: Precise Object Placement Object Snapping Quick Selection Module 26: Dividing and Measuring Objects Module 27: Dimensioning and Annotations Module 28: Working with Text Elements Module 29: Customizing Tool Palettes Module 30: Organizing Tool Palettes Module 31: Efficient Tool Palette Usage Module 32: Standard Views and Drawing Techniques Module 33: Drawing Curved Shapes Arcs, Donuts, and Ellipses Drawing Module 34: Real-World Units and Measurements Module 35: Object Manipulation Adjusting Object Angles Module 36: File Handling and Management Saving, Exiting, and Opening Projects Module 37: Creating Mirrored Images Module 38: Introduction to 3D Modeling By the end of the Vectorworks Evening Training Course, participants will: Demonstrate proficiency in using the Vectorworks interface, tools, and navigation. Create and edit 2D drawings, including walls, doors, windows, floors, ceilings, stairs, and railings. Effectively manage layers, classes, and views for organized and controlled object placement. Create and edit dimensions and annotations for accurate measurements and documentation. Develop skills in creating, modifying, and utilizing symbols for increased efficiency. Generate and edit 3D geometry, apply textures, and create sections and elevations from 3D models. Create polished presentation drawings using viewports, annotations, and text for clarity. Summarize course content and confidently apply learned skills in Vectorworks projects. Utilize available resources for further learning and professional development.

Learn how to create easy to read accessible person centred profiles for children of all ages and young adults. Course Category Person Centred Planning Inclusion Description Person centred planning is a way of expressing a set of inclusive values through a unique range of tools and techniques. The most easily used approach is called creating a one page plan or a person centred profile. All person centred planning tools and processes are driven by a commitment to achieve inclusive outcomes for the person whose plan it is, and the young people involved are always present throughout their planning session. The focus of all person centred approaches is the whole person irrespective of the label they carry. Two people, a process facilitator and a graphic facilitator, typically facilitate plans. The role of the support service staff in this work is as a facilitator not as an expert participant, problem solver, assessor or provider of consultation. One Page Plans are especially effective tools in planning and supporting children and young people with additional support needs and for through-care planning for young people who are looked after or accommodated. Over time person centred working will reveal areas of unmet need in current provision and thereby inform the ongoing strategic planning within any particular region. Testimonials Be the first… Learning Objectives To Explore the values underpinning person centred working To show how One Page Plans naturally capture young people’s strengths and capacities A demonstration of how person centred planning encourages meaningful consultation and participation with young people (particularly for those who cannot make their views known in typical ways To show how Person Centred Planning leads to the building of stronger parent/school partnerships To indicate how person centred planning can promote multi-agency teamwork and shared responsibilities To increase understanding the how of process and graphic facilitation in person centred work. Who Is It For ? Teachers and School Staff Education Services Social Care Staff Health Professionals Transition Coordinators Family Support Workers Link Workers Course Content An introduction to the person centred planning tool of creating a One Page Plan We would stress that this is an introductory day and that participants will be expected to make plans for their own follow up and further practice of the tools covered in the course of the day. If you liked this course you may well like: PERSON CENTRED REVIEWS

Learn how to carry out a Person Centred Review based on the values of person centred thinking. Course Category Person Centred Planning Inclusion Strategic Work Visioning and Problem Solving Description Person centred planning is a way of expressing a set of inclusive values through a unique range of tools and techniques. The most commonly used person centred tool is a Person Centred Review – and it shows these values in action. All person centred planning tools and processes are driven by a commitment to achieve inclusive outcomes for the person whose plan it is, and the young people involved are always present throughout their planning session. The focus of all person centred approaches is the whole person irrespective of the label they carry. Two people, a process facilitator and a graphic facilitator, typically facilitate plans. The role of the support service staff in this work is as a facilitator not as an expert participant, problem solver, assessor or provider of consultation. Person Centred Reviews like MAPS and PATH are especially effective tools in planning transitions and annual review processes for young people with additional support needs and for through-care planning for young people who are looked after or accommodated. Over time person centred working will reveal areas of unmet need in current provision and thereby inform the ongoing strategic planning within any particular region. Testimonials Be the first…. Learning Objectives To Explore the values underpinning person centred working To show how person centred planning with Person Centred Reviews naturally captures young people’s strengths and capacities A demonstration of how person centred reviews encourage meaningful consultation and participation with young people (particularly for those who cannot make their views known in typical ways To show how Person Centred Planning leads to the building of stronger parent/school partnerships To indicate how person centred planning can promote multi-agency teamwork and shared responsibilities To increase understanding the how of process and graphic facilitation in person centred work. Who Is It For ? Teachers and School Staff Education Services Social Care Staff Health Professionals Transition Coordinators Family Support Workers Link Workers Course Content An introduction to the person centred planning Person Centred Reviews – live demonstrations of process in action followed by real time coaching of facilitation skills. We would stress that this is an introductory day and that participants will be expected to make plans for their own follow up and further practice of the tools covered in the course of the day. If you liked this course you may well like: PERSON CENTRED PLANNING USING PATH AND MAPS

In this course we deepen participants understanding of systemic racism and the spectrum of privilege. It challenges the participants to examine their behaviours and take close looks at some of the views they have held since a very young age, e.g. this area is a “bad” area, because it has a high proportion of black/brown people living in it, or that young black men in tracksuits are “thugs”. We think about where these messages come from and how people are indoctrinated by the media. Course Category Inclusion Team Building Leadership Emotional needs Description In this course we deepen participants understanding of systemic racism and the spectrum of privilege. It challenges the participants to examine their behaviours and take close looks at some of the views they have held since a very young age, e.g. this area is a “bad” area, because it has a high proportion of black/brown people living in it, or that young black men in tracksuits are “thugs”. We think about where these messages come from and how people are indoctrinated by the media.  We explore the reasons why white people are so defensive when it comes to talking about race. We discuss having racial biases and the implications of them, such as unconsciously insulting people around us in the workplace. When we become aware of how our behaviours can affect people, we then look for solutions.  The course is designed for groups of professionals to come together as a team to try and take responsibility for the racism that goes on in their workplace – empowering the leadership to have difficult conversations with team members and create a paradigm shift across the entire organisation.  Please come with an open mind, and you might be surprised at what you find out. We are striving for a world where racism is an open conversation and not a topic that we shy away from.  Testimonials “That was a really insightful session and thought provoking. I would love to attend more sessions on racism. Thank you for the engaging questions and delivery” “Lots of things to reflect on!” Learning Objectives Participants will: Confront their own racism and unconscious biases Become aware of the ways they treat people differently based on race Think about practical changes they can make in their workplaces Who Is It For? Leadership teams seeking guidance and reflection Educators who want to get it right People who have had not had much contact with people outside their own race People who believe they are “not racist” Course Content Background – brief history of systemic racism Racism as a binary – the problem with thinking only “bad” people can be racist Trust – how do we feel around people we don’t trust? Difference – how do we act when we feel different? What do Good Manners look like around people of different cultures? What does Good Allyship look like in the workplace? Why don’t we talk about race? What does your race mean to you? Examining our privilege – activity Interracial friendship video Visioning – what does the ideal workplace look like? Setting Actions – what achievable actions can we set to bring us closer to our dream future?

About this training Decarbonization of the Upstream Oil & Gas sector has previously been based on inter-fuel competition. Market actions were seen as the most effective method for reducing the level of emissions. However, the pace of decarbonization is now being led by government policy acting in concert with a coalition of stakeholders such as investors and consumers. The primary focus of this pathway is on the management of carbon emissions to both mitigate and adapt to climate change. Some energy analysts have forecast that global production of oil and natural gas will have to decline annually by 4 to 6 percent in order to meet the global target of Net Zero Emissions by 2050. Oil and gas producers face a difficult challenge in deciding upon the strategy and measures that will best achieve targets set for them while maintaining supply, attracting investments and accessing markets. This 2-day training course will provide participants with an understanding of the strategies and measures for decarbonizing the Upstream Oil and Gas sector within the framework of measures implemented by individual governments through their respective commitments to reduce emissions to achieve their National Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement. This course offers a unique opportunity to understand the rapidly increasing issues confronting the industry as well as the options for the management of carbon emissions to comply with corporate as well as national policies and the implementation of measures for controlling, reporting and verification. Training Objectives Upon completion of this course, participants will be better equipped to participate in the implementation of measures for the management of carbon emissions in the following areas: Implementation of measures for reducing carbon emissions Establishing systems for monitoring and reporting carbon emissions Evaluating the commerciality of discoveries Reviewing and strategizing future field development plans Meeting Environmental Obligations Target Audience This course has been specifically designed for professionals involved in the international oil and gas industry, whether employed a field operator, national oil company, or government. It offers a unique opportunity to rapidly increase your understanding of the issues confronting the industry as well as the options for the management of carbon emissions to comply with corporate as well as national policies and the implementation of measures for controlling, reporting and verification. Staff with the following roles will find this course particularly useful: Corporate Planners Project Engineers Financial Analysts Environmental Specialists Legal Advisors Regulatory & Compliance Officers Course Level Basic or Foundation Trainer Your expert course leader is an international legal expert in petroleum law who has been listed in the Guide to the World's Leading Energy and Natural Resources Lawyers. In his thirty years of practice, he has been the lead negotiator and acquisitions advisor for oil and gas companies in the US and the Asia-Pacific. These transactions have included both upstream (licences and leases) and downstream (refineries and pipelines) assets. He has been appointed as Distinguished Visiting Professor in Oil and Gas at the University of Wyoming and Honorary Professor at the Centre for Energy, Petroleum & Mineral Law & Policy (CEPMLP) at Dundee University. POST TRAINING COACHING SUPPORT (OPTIONAL) To further optimise your learning experience from our courses, we also offer individualized 'One to One' coaching support for 2 hours post training. We can help improve your competence in your chosen area of interest, based on your learning needs and available hours. This is a great opportunity to improve your capability and confidence in a particular area of expertise. It will be delivered over a secure video conference call by one of our senior trainers. They will work with you to create a tailor-made coaching program that will help you achieve your goals faster. Request for further information post training support and fees applicable Accreditions And Affliations

All person centred planning tools and processes are driven by a commitment to achieve inclusive outcomes for the person whose plan it is, and the young people involved are always present throughout their planning session. The focus of all person centred approaches is the whole person irrespective of the label they carry. Two people, a process facilitator and a graphic facilitator, typically facilitate plans. Course Category Person Centred Planning Inclusion Strategic Work Visioning and Problem Solving Description Person centred planning is a way of expressing a set of inclusive values through a unique range of tools and techniques. The most commonly used person centred tools – MAPS and PATH – create a hands-on demonstration of these values in action. All person centred planning tools and processes are driven by a commitment to achieve inclusive outcomes for the person whose plan it is, and the young people involved are always present throughout their planning session. The focus of all person centred approaches is the whole person irrespective of the label they carry. Two people, a process facilitator and a graphic facilitator, typically facilitate plans. The role of the support service staff in this work is as a facilitator not as an expert participant, problem solver, assessor or provider of consultation. MAPS and PATH are especially effective tools in planning transitions and annual review processes for young people with additional support needs and for through-care planning for young people who are looked after or accommodated. Over time person centred working will reveal areas of unmet need in current provision and thereby inform the ongoing strategic planning within any particular region. Testimonials “Thanks again for a superb day which from my perspective as Principal Educational Psychologist has been a real boost and uplifted my spirits about helping move the Educational Psychology Service forward as well as gaining greater insight and understanding of individual Educational Psychologists. Several EPs have said that they are planning to use MAPS and PATHS in their work and I will be joining them.”DR MICHAEL HYMANS, PRINCIPAL EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST, LONDON BOROUGH OF Learning Objectives To Explore the values underpinning person centred working To show how person centred planning naturally captures young people’s strengths and capacities A demonstration of how person centred planning encourages meaningful consultation and participation with young people (particularly for those who cannot make their views known in typical ways To show how Person Centred Planning leads to the building of stronger parent/school partnerships To indicate how person centred planning can promote multi-agency teamwork and shared responsibilities To increase understanding the how of process and graphic facilitation in person centred work. Who Is It For ? Teachers and School Staff Education Services Social Care Staff Health Professionals Transition Coordinators Family Support Workers Link Workers Course Content An introduction to the person centred planning tools PATH live demonstration in action followed by real time coaching of facilitation skills. We would stress that this is an introductory day and that participants will be expected to make plans for their own follow up and further practice of the tools covered in the course of the day.

Click to read more about this training, in which we demonstrate a live problem solving approach which is based on the active participation of family members. Course Category Inclusion Parents and Carers Behaviour and relationships Problem Solving Description In this training we demonstrate a live problem solving approach which is based on the active participation of family members. ‘Family Circles’ is an evolving new approach to problem solving with families and is based on our years of family work and the development and use of the Circle of Adults process. Inspired by our own Parent Solutions work and the Circle of Adults process as well as Family Group Conferencing and other Restorative Interventions we bring you Family Circles. Essentially the approach involves gathering a family together for a process that is facilitated but majors on the family members offering each other their wisdom and ideas. The approach is capacity focused, person centred approach to working with families rather than the dominant deficit oriented and ‘medical model’ of viewing and planning for or doing things to families. This training can be modelled with a group of professionals or better still with a family. In our work with families we develop the importance of naming stories or theories and seeking linkages and synthesis between what is found out and explored about the family situation and its history. We like participants to sit with the uncertainty, to reflect on the question ‘why’ but without judgement of each other. Deeper reflections may span a whole range of perspectives from ‘within person’ considerations, to situational or systemic possibilities. Health or emotional issues can be reflected on alongside organisational or transactional aspects of what is going on for the family. The better the shared understanding the better the strategy or actions which emerge from these meetings. Quality hypotheses with a close fit to reality lead to more effective implementation in the real world. We encourage ‘loose’ thinking, a search for connections, deeper listening, an ‘open mind’, speculation and exploration without moral judgements. From this stance self-reflection as well as reflection on the situation can produce remarkable insights. The quality of theories or new stories generated is directly influenced by family members’ experiences and the models of learning, behaviour and emotion, systems, educational development, change and so on that they have been exposed to.  Learning Objectives To provide opportunities for: Shared problem solving in a safe exploratory climate in which the family will find its own solutions. Individuals to reflect on their own actions and strategies An exploration of whole-family processes and their impact Emotional support and shared understandings of issues at a child, parent, family, school and community level. Feed back to each other on issues, ideas and strategies that are agreed to be worth sharing with them. Who Is It For? Anyone interested in working with families in a way that builds and makes use of their capacities rather than focus on their challenges and difficulties. Social Care teams School staff Community organisers Educational Psychologists Course Content True family empowerment Deepening shared stories and understandings Facilitating groups Problem solving process Handling family group communication Allowing direct feedback and challenge between participants in a safe way Building relationships Process: Family members are welcomed: Introductions are carried out, ground rules and aims clarified whilst coffee is drunk. A recap from the last session is carried out: To follow up developments and reflections after the last meeting. One issue is selected for the main focus Issue presentation: The family member who raised the concern is asked questions to tell the ‘story’ of the issue or problem. Additional questions/information from the group about the problem are gathered: Ground rules may need to be observed carefully here. Individual participants need to be kept focused and prevented from leaping to premature conclusions or to making ‘helpful’ suggestions about strategy. Relationship aspects to the problem are explored. Metaphors and analogies are invited. How would a fly on the wall see your relationship? If you were alone together on a desert island, what would it be like? Impact of previous relationships/spillage from one relationship to another are explored. Eg what situation they are reminded of? For instance, does this situation remind you of any of those angry but helpless feelings you had with your other son when he was an adolescent? This provides opportunities to reflect on how emotions rub off on other people. The parent feels really frustrated, and on reflection we can see that so does the child System/Organisation factors (Family system/school and community systems and so on): What aspects help or hinder the problem? For instance, does the pastoral system of the local school provide space, or time and skilled personnel able to counsel this young person and work actively with their parents? Synthesis. At this stage the Graphic facilitator summarises what they have heard. They then go on to describe linkages and patterns in what they have heard. This can be very powerful. The person doing the graphic work has been able to listen throughout the presentation process and will have been struck by strong messages, emotions and images as they have arisen. The story and meaning of what is happening in the situation may become a little clearer at this point. Typical links may be ‘mirrored emotions’ strong themes such as loss and separation issues, or repeated processes such as actions triggering rejection. This step provides an excellent grounding for the next process of deepening understanding. What alternative strategies/interventions are open to be used? Brainstormed and recorded. ’Either/ors’ need to be avoided at this time also. This needs to be a shared session in which the family member who is presenting the concern contributes as much as anyone. Care is needed to ensure that this person is not overloaded with other people’s strategies. The final selection of strategy or strategies from the brainstormed list is the problem presenter’s choice. Strategies might include: a special time for the young person, a meeting with the child’s parents to explore how she is being managed at home and to share tactics, a home-school diary, counselling, or an agreed action plan that all are aware of, agreed sanctions and rewards and so forth. Strategies may productively involve processes of restitution and restoration, when ‘sorry’ is not enough. Making it right, rather than punishments or rewards, may then becomes the focus. First Steps. The problem presenter is finally asked to agree one or two first steps which they can carry out over the next 3-7 days. It can help to assign a ‘coach’ who will check in with them to ensure they have carried out the action they have named. This is a time to be very specific. Steps should be small and achievable. The person is just ‘making a start’. A phone call, or making an agreement with a key other person not present at the meeting would be ideal examples. Final reflections. Sometimes referred to as a ‘round of words’ help with closure for all involved. Reflections are on the process not the problem. In large families this is best done standing in a circle. In smaller groups all can remain sitting. Passing around a ‘listening stick’ or something similar such as a stone or light heighten the significance of the process ending and improve listening. Finally the problem presenter is handed the ‘Graphic’ this is their record of the meeting and can be rolled and presented ceremoniously by the facilitators for maximum effect! If you liked this course you may well like: Parent Solutions