27 Courses delivered Live Online

The work of a technical team is invariably challenging and often unpredictable. Definition of the work can be problematic, timescales can be hard to estimate and the right technical approach difficult to select. Staff involved in this type of work usually have very high levels of specialist knowledge in their field and have high expectations of those who lead them. In addition to the challenges of the work, the team leader often has to balance the need for professional excellence with financial and commercial considerations and to ensure that team goals are realistic by being an effective negotiator with other project and senior managers. These characteristics make technical team leadership a demanding and complex activity. This programme aims to help participants develop the skills needed to become an effective technical team leader. The objectives of this programme are to help participants: understand the significance of leadership skills and their impact on team performance review the key skills needed to be an effective, 'multi-dimensional' team leader and learn how to develop, adapt and apply them in practice learn how to identify the preferred leadership style for the context and organisational culture and how to develop personal style versatility understand the role of the project leader in building an effective team and the skills required to promote and sustain team performance gain a better understanding of the interpersonal skills needed to motivate individual team members and harness the full potential of the team DAY ONE 1 Technical teams and leadership What is a leader? How much can leadership be learned? The team environment and the impact of leadership skills The characteristics of high performance teams and their leaders Some useful models and theories of leadership explored Types of leadership; choosing how to use leadership power Evaluating personal leadership style; how to develop style flexibility 2 Essential skills for team leaders 3 key dimensions of effective leadership: inwards, outwards and upwards Developing and promoting a 'team vision': strategic thinking skills The vital role of communication skills and how to develop them Understanding others; emotional intelligence skills Being a visible leader; behavioural and influencing skills Building effective relationships; the importance of trust and respect DAY TWO 3 Leading inwards to build the team The role of leadership in developing team performance Understanding individuals in the team; recognising team role preferences Managing conflict and promoting positive team dynamics Setting standards, maintaining discipline and rewarding performance Harnessing team potential: building motivation within the team Promoting team learning; the team leader as coach / mentor 4 Leading outwards and upwards to support the team Negotiating realistic team goals; effective influencing skills Gaining empowerment and support from the key stakeholders Leading upwards: knowing when and how to take the initiative Building team credibility within the organisation; helping the team deliver Becoming an effective team player in leadership teams Building and maintaining rapport with influential stakeholders

Why Choose Mastering Maya Basics to Intermediate Course? Click here for more info: Website Our courses cater to graphic designers, animators, and beginners, providing industry-standard animation skills. Dive into 3D animation, modeling, simulation, and rendering for film, TV, games, and ads. Duration: 20 hours Approach: 1-on-1 Sessions. Schedule: Design your own schedule by pre-booking a convenient hour of your choice, available Mon to Sat between 9 am and 7 pm. I. Introduction to Maya (1.5 hours) Understanding Maya and its Applications Navigating the Maya Interface and Basic Tools Creating and Managing Projects II. 3D Modeling (3 hours) Basics of Polygon Modeling Creating Simple and Complex 3D Shapes Organic Shape Creation using NURBS Advanced Techniques: Extrusions, Bevels, and Editable Objects III. Texturing and Materials (1.5 hours) Introduction to Texturing and Material Creation UV Unwrapping and Texture Mapping Importing and Applying Textures and Images IV. Lighting and Rendering (2 hours) Fundamental Lighting Techniques Camera Setup and Composition Rendering Images and Animations Output Options and File Formats V. Animation (4 hours) Keyframe Animation and Animation Curves Rigging and Animating Characters Motion Paths and Animation Layers Editing Animation Clips VI. Rigging (2 hours) Introduction to Rigging and Skeletons Binding Skin and Weight Maps Creating Rigging Systems for Characters VII. Special Effects (1.5 hours) Particle Systems and Dynamics Creating Fluids, Fire, and Other Effects Special Effects Editing: Explosions, Smoke, and more VIII. Advanced Modeling Techniques (1.5 hours) Complex Objects using Booleans and Deformers Modifying Curves and Surfaces Organic Shape Creation with Sculpting Tools IX. Conclusion and Next Steps (0.5 hours) Course Review Further Learning Tips and Resources Q&A and Feedback Please note: The course content and duration are flexible, tailored to match learners' needs and skill levels. Throughout the course, lifetime email support ensures you receive guidance with any challenges you face. Embark on your Autodesk Maya journey, exploring 3D modeling and animation with confidence. Additional Topics Covered: Modeling: Surfaces, Control Vertex, Polygons, Extrusion, Vertices, Edges, Bridge Tool, Combining, Smooth, Mirror Geometry, Merging Vertices, Subdivision Modeling. Deformations: Twist, Lattice, Flare, Bend. Shapes: Lines, Pen Tools. Animations: Basic Keyframes, Vertex Animation, Clusters, Path Animations, Skeletons, Bones, IK Handle Tool, Skinning. Dynamics: Fire, Lighting, Soft and Rigid Bodies, Particles, Collisions, Gravity. Fur and Paint Effects: Fur Basics, Fur Color Corrections, Paint Effects, Paint Modifier, Brush Animations. Texturing: Diffuse and Bump Maps, Reflections, Transparency, Shaders, Toon Shaders, Glow Textures. Lighting: Basic and Advanced Lights, Shadows, Special Light Effects. Camera: Free and Aim Cameras, Camera Effects, Path Animations. Fluid Effects and Ncloth: 2D and 3D Containers, Collision Effects, Gravity, Wind Effects. Rendering: Images and Animations, Render Techniques, Resolution Settings, Batch Rendering. Download Maya Maya Proficiency: Master Maya's interface, tools, and functions, advancing from basic to intermediate levels. 3D Modeling Expertise: Create diverse 3D models using polygonal and NURBS techniques, from simple shapes to intricate designs. Texturing and Rendering Skills: Apply textures, create materials, and utilize advanced rendering techniques for high-quality visuals. Animation Techniques: Understand keyframe animation, rigging, and character animation, producing engaging animations and special effects. Special Effects and Dynamics: Explore particle systems, fluid dynamics, and advanced visual effects, enhancing realism in animations. Advanced Modeling and Sculpting: Master complex modeling techniques, including Booleans, deformers, and organic shape creation through sculpting tools. Professional Portfolio: Develop a diverse portfolio showcasing 3D modeling and animation skills, ready for presentation to employers or clients. Problem-Solving Skills: Learn creative approaches to solve complex 3D challenges effectively. Collaborative Abilities: Understand team dynamics and collaboration within the 3D production pipeline. Recommended Books: "Introducing Autodesk Maya 202X" by Dariush Derakhshani and Randi L. Derakhshani: Comprehensive beginner's guide to Maya's essential tools and techniques. "Mastering Autodesk Maya 20XX" by Todd Palamar: In-depth intermediate guide covering advanced features, modeling, animation, and rendering. "Maya Character Creation: Modeling and Animation Controls" by Chris Maraffi: Focuses on character creation, covering modeling, rigging, and animation. "Maya Secrets of the Pros" by Todd Palamar: Expert tips and techniques from professional Maya artists, detailing advanced workflows and best practices. "Stop Staring: Facial Modeling and Animation Done Right" by Jason Osipa: Specialized book on facial modeling and animation, perfect for character expression enthusiasts. "The Art of 3D Computer Animation and Effects" by Isaac Kerlow: Offers foundational knowledge in 3D computer animation principles, applicable to various software, including Maya. Mastering Maya Basics to Intermediate Course Benefits: Comprehensive Skill Development: Master essential tools and techniques, from basics to intermediate, with hands-on projects mirroring real industry scenarios. Industry-Grade Proficiency: Acquire expertise in Autodesk Maya, enhancing credibility in animation, visual effects, and gaming industries. Creative Exploration: Unlock creative potential through advanced shading, lighting, dynamics, and simulations, enabling imaginative project realization. Portfolio Enhancement: Build a strong portfolio showcasing skills in 3D modeling, animation, and rendering for career advancement. Individualized Support: Receive personalized guidance and feedback, ensuring tailored learning experiences and skill refinement. Potential Jobs After Course: 3D Animator: Create lifelike character animations for films, games, and advertisements. 3D Modeler: Design detailed 3D characters, environments, and objects for various applications. Visual Effects Artist: Produce stunning visual effects for movies, TV shows, and commercials. Texture/Lighting Artist: Develop intricate textures and set the mood with expert lighting. Rigging Specialist: Rig characters and objects for realistic movement in animations. Rendering Specialist: Optimize rendering capabilities for high-quality images and animations. Game Developer: Contribute to interactive game development using Maya's features. Freelance Artist/Animator: Work independently on diverse projects, collaborating with studios and agencies. Skill Advancement: Progressive Mastery: Develop from basics to intermediate levels in Autodesk Maya, honing essential tools for stunning 3D visuals and animations. Hands-On Learning: Interactive Practice: Engage in practical projects, refining your skills in 3D modeling, advanced materials, character animation, and high-quality renders. Industry-Ready Proficiency: In-Demand Skills: Acquire proficiency in Autodesk Maya, a key software in animation and gaming, enhancing your employability. Creative Exploration: Unlock Creativity: Experiment with advanced shading, lighting, and dynamic animations, unleashing your creative potential in Maya. Flexible Support: Tailored Learning: Access recorded lessons for review, deepening your understanding, with lifetime email support for continuous guidance.

The leadership role of the project manager is increasingly recognised as a key determinant in delivering success. These skills can often be critical in project situations, where tight budgets and deadlines demand the highest levels of team performance and where the working environment presents fresh challenges on a daily basis. This programme focuses on the leadership skills required of project managers and will benefit anyone involved in managing projects large or small wishing to extend or enhance those skills. The objectives of this programme are to help the participants: Understand the significance of leadership skills to the project manager and the impact of these skills on project performance Review the key skills needed to be an effective 'multi-dimensional' project leader and learn how to develop, adapt and apply them in practice Learn how to identify the preferred leadership style for the context and organisational culture of a project and how to develop personal style versatility Understand the role of the project leader in building an effective team and the skills required to promote and sustain team performance Gain a better understanding of the interpersonal skills needed to motivate individual team members and harness the full potential of the team DAY ONE 1 Introduction Aims and objectives Personal objectives 2 Project management and leadership What is a leader? How much can leadership be learned? The project environment and the impact of leadership skills The characteristics of high performance project teams and their leaders 3 Principles of effective leadership Some useful models and theories of leadership explored Types of leadership; choosing how to use leadership power Evaluating personal leadership style; how to develop style flexibility 4 Syndicate case study: Leadership in action Review of the role of leadership in a contemporary project Feedback and plenary discussion: effective project leadership 5 Team exercise: Leadership skills of the project manager Teams compete in performing a project simulation Project review and feedback Discussion of the outcome: role and skills of the project leader 6 Leadership skills for project managers The 3 dimensions of project leadership: inwards, outwards, and upwards The vital role of communication skills and how to develop them Developing a 'project vision': strategic thinking skills Understanding others; emotional intelligence skills Being a visible leader; behavioural and influencing skills Building effective relationships; the importance of trust and respect DAY TWO 7 Leading the project team The role of leadership in developing team performance Understanding individual strengths; recognising team role preferences Managing conflict and promoting positive team dynamics Setting standards, maintaining discipline and rewarding performance Harnessing team potential: building motivation within the team Promoting team learning; the team leader as coach / mentor 8 Leading through the organisation Gaining the support others; developing effective influencing skills Getting empowerment from key stakeholders Knowing when and how to take the initiative and lead Building and maintaining rapport with key partners Becoming an effective team player in leadership teams Becoming a business leader; leading colleagues and co-workers 9 Team exercise: Leadership and negotiation Teams engage in a negotiation exercise Exercise review and feedback Discussion of the outcome: negotiation skills of the project leader 10 Negotiation skills for project leaders Characteristics of effective negotiators Classic problem behaviours and mind-sets to avoid Getting to win-win; building partnership and trust 11 Leading more senior stakeholders The challenges and skills of leading and managing upwards Communicating with more senior stakeholders; building credibility Negotiating upwards: knowing when and how The role of networking skills; building and maintaining rapport Handling disagreements; the art of diplomacy Handling personality and style conflicts with more senior people

Managing teams and projects to meet a private, public or voluntary organisation's goals.

Most organisations and businesses are trying to navigate the best way back to a functional working framework. But two things need to happen - 1. The working practices need to be efficient, sustainable and compatible for meeting the demands and needs of the organisation; it’s clients, it’s workforce and it’s Leaders 2. The culture needs to be welcoming, authentic and supportive otherwise there will be disenfranchisement and potentially a churn of staff and loss of talent What has been proven to be a very successful approach to mitigate the dangers of demotivated team members and poor efficiency levels is a bespoke ‘Ushering the Team Back to the Workplace’ workshop. Programme Outline Below is a template of an actual Programme that has been delivered very successfully for clients such as the NHS; Claranet; Jotun Paints & Workspace. This, however, can be modified to suit any group or size. It will be designed to reflect the Organisation’s preferred Hybrid working framework and communication systems. The options of having the innovative Real Play technique to help handle delicate conversations is especially effective. The biggest gain is to reconnect the relationships via the activities and exercises, which would be selected carefully. Key commitments and buy-in is always the priority outcomes - which this programme will help deliver in just 1 day. The objectives include: Making the transition back to working as a collaborative team Enhancing the Leadership skills of the team Reviewing/establishing the Hybrid working protocols Galvanising the Team spirit Maintain inclusivity among full-time; part-time and Region based team members Energising and motivational Fun! Exercise – Round the Bend The team are to follow the instructions delivered as they walk (and jump) through the route – always keeping a safe distance apart. The instructions become more complicated as they progress. Debriefing points: Dealing with Change Attention to Detail Adapting approach Optimising results Exercise - Number Crunch (3 x Cohorts of 12/13) The team must be effectively led and motivated to work as one unified group to reach their objective of visiting each numbered location within a very tight deadline. Debriefing points: Support and co-ordination Strategy and planning Adapting approach Optimising results Tutorial – Team Dynamics Tuckman model Phases of Development towards Maturity Exercise - Juggling (3 x Cohorts of 12/13) The group(s) will be invited to optimise the number of ‘clients’ (juggling balls) they can manage at one time. This involves devising a sequence between the group to achieve maximum results without making any mistakes. We introduce different balls which represent different degrees of complexity, challenging the group’s preparation and approach to a variety ‘customers’ needs. Debriefing points: Ensuring effective communication Clarifying the approach for dealing with the unexpected Setting expectations and reviewing delivery Treating every colleague with care and respect Tutorial - Email Etiquette The primary standards – best practices ABSURD model Preparation and planning Top Tips World Cafe The team are split into 5-6 sub-groups – each with a specific review focus:- What recommendations do you have to engage the team back into the Workplace? How do we ensure the framework is efficient? What are the best ways to optimise team working strategically when most/all team members are in the office? What potential barriers are there? How do we accommodate for the Regional team members? What are the benefits to bringing the team back to the workplace? Each session has 2 – 3 rounds with each table’s ‘host’ sharing feedback for applying to the Team Action Plan – or Charter. Debriefing points: Each Syndicate’s recommendations and capture the key actions they generate 'Real Play' We offer an innovative solution to bring real Leadership/team scenarios to life. We use actors who improvise scenarios which have been specified by the group. The group is split the group into 2 sub-groups, one with the Actor, the other with the Trainer. Each group has a brief and has to instruct their Trainer/Actor on how to approach the scenario supplied. The Actor and Trainer perform the role play(s) as instructed by their respective teams; however, during the action they can be paused for further recommendations or direction. The outcome is the responsibility of the team(s) – not the performers Assign 24 x ‘Directors’ (4 for each Player – Phil & Julia – for each Real Play. Potential Real Play Scenarios: Engaging with a team member as to how the new working plans will be applied. Overcoming concerns to the new working practices/framework Addressing issues where a team member feels excluded from the teamworking practices/culture Debrief the Programme Individual Action Plans Team Priorities for application into the workplace

Basic Business Communication Skills Course Overview This course on Basic Business Communication Skills is designed to equip learners with essential communication techniques for effective interaction in the business world. Covering key areas such as written communication, verbal communication, and non-verbal cues, it ensures that learners understand the importance of clarity, tone, and professionalism in business settings. By the end of the course, participants will be able to communicate more confidently and effectively with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders, enhancing their overall career prospects. Course Description The Basic Business Communication Skills course delves deeper into the foundations of business communication, focusing on email etiquette, telephone communication, meetings, and presentations. Learners will explore various communication channels and how to adapt their style for different audiences, whether in a formal or informal setting. By engaging with practical examples and scenarios, learners will develop the ability to express ideas clearly and professionally, strengthen relationships, and improve team dynamics. This course is invaluable for anyone looking to improve their ability to communicate effectively in a professional environment. Basic Business Communication Skills Curriculum: Module 01: Introduction to Business Communication Module 02: Effective Written Communication Module 03: Telephone and Digital Communication Etiquette Module 04: Non-Verbal Communication and Body Language Module 05: Communicating in Meetings and Presentations Module 06: Communicating Across Cultures Module 07: Conflict Resolution and Difficult Conversations (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to enhance their communication skills in the workplace. Professionals aiming to improve their career prospects through stronger communication. Beginners with an interest in business communication. Those looking to refine their interpersonal communication abilities. Career Path Office Administrator Customer Service Representative HR Assistant Project Coordinator Marketing Specialist Sales Executive

Leadership and Management Essential Skill Course Overview: The "Leadership and Management Essential Skill" course provides an in-depth exploration of key concepts, strategies, and tools essential for effective leadership and management. Learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of leadership theories, management principles, and the critical differences between the two. Designed for those seeking to enhance their managerial expertise, the course delves into leadership styles, their impact, and the common challenges leaders face. By completing this course, participants will be equipped to lead teams with confidence, make informed decisions, and effectively manage diverse challenges in the workplace. Course Description: This course covers a range of topics that are fundamental to leadership and management. Learners will explore core management principles, including decision-making and organisational strategies, and apply leadership theories to real-world scenarios. The course also examines the differences between leadership and management and provides insight into the obstacles leaders face, such as resistance to change and conflict resolution. Various leadership styles will be discussed, along with their impacts on team dynamics and the importance of mentoring. Upon completion, learners will possess a strong foundation in both leadership and management, enabling them to apply their knowledge to various professional environments. Leadership and Management Essential Skill Curriculum: Module 01: Principles of Management Module 02: Applied Theories on Leadership Module 03: Leadership and Management Differences & Applications Module 04: Obstacles in Leadership and Management Module 05: Different Leadership Styles Module 06: Impact of Different Leadership Style and Mentoring (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to develop leadership capabilities. Professionals aiming to advance in management roles. Beginners with an interest in leadership or management. Anyone looking to improve team and organisational performance. Career Path: Team Leader Project Manager Department Head Operations Manager Senior Executive Leadership Consultant

Day-to-Day Leadership Course Overview: This course on Day-to-Day Leadership equips learners with the essential tools and strategies to effectively lead on a daily basis. Covering key leadership principles and real-world applications, it focuses on enhancing decision-making, communication, and team management. Learners will explore situational leadership, practical models, and adaptable leadership styles that can be applied to diverse organisational settings. The course provides learners with the confidence to implement leadership strategies that foster collaboration, productivity, and team morale in their daily work. Course Description: The Day-to-Day Leadership course delves deeper into various leadership theories, including Situational Leadership, and offers a structured framework for leading teams effectively. Throughout the course, learners will engage with key concepts, including how to adapt leadership styles to different situations, develop key skills for motivating teams, and apply leadership strategies to ensure productivity and engagement. With an emphasis on real-world applications, learners will be guided through practical models and gain valuable insights into team dynamics, communication, and problem-solving. This course is ideal for individuals looking to enhance their leadership capabilities and progress in their professional development. Day-to-Day Leadership Curriculum: Module 01: Introduction to this Course Module 02: Introduction to Situational Leadership Module 03: A Practical Model for Day-to-Day Leadership Module 04: The Skills for Day-to-Day Leadership Styles Module 05: Bonus Content Module 06: Closing Section (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to develop leadership capabilities. Professionals aiming to enhance their team management skills. Beginners with an interest in leadership and management. Those interested in improving day-to-day workplace leadership. Career Path: Team Leader Operations Manager Project Manager Department Head Leadership Coach Organisational Development Specialist

Team Building Masterclass Course Overview This Team Building Masterclass provides learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to create high-performing teams in various professional environments. Covering core topics such as communication, team dynamics, and leadership strategies, this course offers valuable insights into the qualities that contribute to a successful team. Learners will gain practical tools for managing both in-person and remote teams, along with strategies for overcoming common challenges. By the end of the course, learners will have a clear understanding of how to build cohesive, motivated, and effective teams, enhancing their leadership potential and organisational impact. Course Description The Team Building Masterclass delves into the critical aspects of team success, starting with the key qualities that define high-performing teams. Participants will explore various communication techniques, effective team-building models, and the stages of the team-building process. Special focus is placed on the challenges faced when managing virtual teams, as well as interactive exercises designed to strengthen team bonds. Throughout the course, learners will develop a comprehensive understanding of the essential elements of team collaboration and gain strategies for navigating obstacles. This course is ideal for those seeking to improve team cohesion and productivity in their professional roles. Team Building Masterclass Curriculum Module 01: Qualities of a Successful Team Module 02: Communicating Effectively as a Team Module 03: Team Building Models Module 04: Team Building Process Module 05: Challenges of Managing a Virtual Team Module 06: Team Building Exercises (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to enhance their leadership skills Professionals aiming to improve team performance Beginners with an interest in team management Managers looking to develop team-building strategies HR professionals and organisational developers Career Path Team Manager Project Manager HR Specialist Organisational Development Consultant Leadership Coach Remote Team Manager

Learn to Level Up Your Leadership Course Overview "Learn to Level Up Your Leadership" is designed for individuals who want to enhance their leadership capabilities and navigate the challenges of leading teams. This course delves into essential leadership concepts such as decision-making, communication, and team management. Learners will gain a solid understanding of leadership styles, conflict resolution, and how to motivate and inspire their teams. By the end of the course, learners will be equipped to lead more effectively, build trust, and foster a positive team environment, which are essential skills in today's dynamic business world. Course Description This course covers a comprehensive range of leadership topics, offering insights into modern leadership techniques and strategies. Learners will explore various leadership styles, learn the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, and understand the core principles of team dynamics. They will also be introduced to conflict management strategies, decision-making processes, and the significance of leading with integrity. The course is designed to provide a robust foundation for individuals who wish to improve their leadership skills and grow in their professional careers. Learners will develop the skills to manage diverse teams, handle challenges, and drive organisational success. Learn to Level Up Your Leadership Curriculum Module 01: Introduction to Leadership Module 02: Leadership Styles and Approaches Module 03: Emotional Intelligence in Leadership Module 04: Effective Communication for Leaders Module 05: Decision-Making and Problem Solving Module 06: Managing and Motivating Teams Module 07: Conflict Resolution and Negotiation Module 08: Leading with Integrity and Vision (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to develop their leadership skills. Professionals aiming to advance their careers through enhanced leadership capabilities. Beginners with an interest in management or leadership roles. Aspiring managers looking to transition into leadership positions. Career Path Team Leader Project Manager Department Manager Operations Manager Leadership Consultant HR Manager Executive Role in various industries