481 Courses in Birmingham

REFERENCE CODE 601/3040/4 COURSE LEVEL NVQ Level 3 THIS COURSE IS AVAILABLE IN Course Overview Who is this qualification for? This qualification is aimed at those who are involved in carrying out insulation or associated treatments to buildings; the qualification is at Level 3 and should be by those who are experienced and capable of dealing with a wide range of problems and situations and working with installations that have complex requirements. Candidates may take a technical or supervisory role, particularly in relation to less-experienced colleagues. They will also work closely with customers/clients and have well-developed customer service skills. The qualification is designed to ensure that there is a high degree of flexibility to complete by having pathways for a wide range of occupational roles and specialisms. All work must be carried out in accordance with Building Regulations and Industry recognised safe working practices, including the disposal of waste. What is required from candidates? GQA qualifications are made up of a number of units that have a credit value or credits. This qualification consists of 5 mandatory units and 6 pathways to cover occupational roles in External Wall Insulation, Cavity Wall Insulation, Loft insulation, Draught Proofing, Internal insulation and insulation to Framed Sections of Buildings. Candidates must complete all 5 mandatory units which have a total credit value of 23 credits and the required credits from the selected pathway. Dependent on the pathway selected the qualification has a total credit value ranging from 59 credits to 91 credits The units are made up of the things those working in these job roles need to know to be able to do to carry out the work safely and correctly. These are called Learning Outcomes, and all must be met to achieve the unit. Mandatory units Level Credit Maintain, promote and monitor Health and Safety in the Insulation and Building Treatments working environment Environmental Issues in the Insulation and Building Treatments working environment Identify and confirm requirements, resources and methods of work to carry out workplace activity Communication and teamwork in Insulation and Building Treatment activities Understanding Building Regulations and Legislation that apply to the Insulation and Building Treatments working environment Pathway 1 External Wall Insulation D/503/3042 Applying Surface Finishes to External Wall Insulation in the Workplace 2 19 Installing External Wall Insulation in the Workplace 2 19 Setting Out and Installing External Wall Insulation and Applying Surface Finishes to Buildings with Non-Routine or Complex Features Pathway 2 Cavity Wall Insulation Installing Cavity Wall Insulation in the Workplace 2 18 Setting Out and Installing Cavity Wall Insulation to Buildings with Non-Routine or Complex Features 3 24 Pathway 3 Loft Insulation Installing Loft Insulation in the Workplace Setting Out and Installing Loft Insulation to Buildings with Non-Routine or Complex Features Pathway 4 Draught Proofing Installing Draught-proofing to Openings in the Workplace 2 12 Setting Out and Installing Draught-Proofing to Openings with Non-Routine or Complex Features 3 30 Pathway 5 Internal Insulation to Walls, Floors or Ceilings Installing Internal Insulation to Walls, Floors or Ceilings in the Workplace Setting Out and Installing Internal Insulations to Walls, Floors or Ceilings to Buildings with Non-Routine or Complex Features Pathway 6 Insulation to Framed Sections of Buildings Installing Insulation to Framed Sections of Buildings in the Workplace 2 19 Setting Out and Installing Insulation to Framed Sections of Buildings with Complex or Non-Routine Features in the Workplace Assessment Guidance Evidence should show that you can complete all of the learning outcomes for each unit being taken. Types of evidence: Evidence of performance and knowledge is required. Evidence of performance should be demonstrated by activities and outcomes, and should be generated in the workplace only, unless indicated under potential sources of evidence (see below). Evidence of knowledge can be demonstrated though performance or by responding to questions. Quantity of evidence: Evidence should show that you can meet the requirements of the units in a way that demonstrates that the standards can be achieved consistently over an appropriate period of time. Potential sources of evidence: The main source of evidence for each unit will be observation of the candidate’s performance and knowledge demonstrated during the completion of the unit. This can be supplemented by the following types of physical or documentary evidence: Accident book/reporting system Photo/video evidence Safety records Work diaries Training records Timesheets Audio evidence Telephone logs Job specifications and documentations Delivery records Witness testimonies Equipment Correspondence with customers Prepared sites and structures Notes and memos Completed sites and structures Please Note that photocopied or downloaded documents such as manufacturers or industry guidance, H&S policies, Risk Assessments etc, are not normally acceptable evidence for GQA qualifications unless accompanied by a record of a professional discussion or Assessor statement confirming candidate knowledge of the subject. If you are in any doubt about the validity of evidence, please contact Oscar Onsite Academy

The RQF Level 3 Outdoor First Aid Course is designed for individuals engaging in outdoor activities, offering advanced training in managing emergencies specific to outdoor environments. Here's a concise overview: Specialised Training: Tailored for outdoor enthusiasts, professionals, and leaders involved in remote outdoor activities or expeditions. Comprehensive Skills: Covers assessing and managing injuries, trauma care, medical emergencies, and evacuation procedures relevant to outdoor settings. Scenario-Based Learning: Simulated outdoor emergencies, providing practical application of skills in realistic scenarios encountered during outdoor pursuits. Remote Environment Preparedness: Emphasis on handling emergencies where immediate medical assistance might be limited, focusing on adaptability and resource utilisation. Hands-on Training: Practical sessions demonstrating wilderness-specific first aid techniques, including the use of specialised equipment. Communication and Decision-making: Training in effective communication and teamwork during outdoor emergencies, fostering quick and coordinated responses. This course equips outdoor enthusiasts, guides, and professionals with advanced first aid skills, preparing them to manage a wide array of outdoor emergencies in remote or challenging environments. Suitability - Who should attend? The RQF Level 3 Outdoor First Aid Course is suitable for: Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hikers, climbers, campers, and adventurers seeking skills to manage emergencies during outdoor pursuits. Professional Guides: Outdoor leaders, expedition leaders, and instructors responsible for group safety during outdoor activities. Workers in Remote Environments: Forestry workers, park rangers, and those working in remote or wilderness settings where immediate medical help might be limited. Sports Coaches: Coaches involved in outdoor sports or activities requiring knowledge of first aid in outdoor environments. Volunteers and Community Members: Individuals participating in community-based outdoor programs or volunteering in remote areas. Professionals with Outdoor Responsibilities: Individuals whose roles involve outdoor responsibilities and the need for advanced first aid skills in such settings. It's ideal for anyone seeking to enhance their ability to respond to outdoor emergencies where access to immediate medical assistance is limited. Outcome / Qualification etc. The outcomes of completing the RQF Level 3 Outdoor First Aid Course include: Advanced First Aid Skills: Proficiency in managing a broad range of outdoor-specific injuries and medical emergencies encountered in remote settings. Confidence and Preparedness: Enhanced confidence to assess, manage, and provide first aid in challenging outdoor environments. Scenario Adaptability: Ability to adapt first aid skills to diverse outdoor scenarios and make informed decisions in remote or adverse conditions. Effective Communication: Improved communication and teamwork skills essential for coordinating responses to outdoor emergencies. Emergency Preparedness: Understanding evacuation procedures, resource improvisation, and utilising outdoor-specific first aid equipment. Certification: Attainment of an accredited qualification demonstrating competence in outdoor first aid management. Completing this course ensures participants are well-equipped to respond competently and effectively to a wide array of outdoor emergencies. Training Course Content UNIT 1 OUTDOOR EMERGENCY ACTION Module 1 Introduction Module 2 What is outdoor first aid? Module 3 First aid equipment Module 4 Summon assistance Module 5 Monitoring Module 6 Scene survey Module 7 Primary survey Module 8 Secondary assessment Module 9 Resuscitation and AED Module 10 Disorders of respiration Module 11 Wounds and bleeding Module 12 Hypovolaemic shock UNIT 2 OUTDOOR INCIDENT MANAGEMENT DAY 2 Module 1 Incident management Module 2 Bones, joints and muscle injuries Module 3 Head and spinal injuries Module 4 Chest and abdominal injuries Module 5 Major illnesses Module 6 Anaphylaxis Module 7 Extreme heat and cold Module 8 Burns Module 9 Eye injuries Module 10 Poisoning Module 11 Bites and stings Module 12 Written assessment and course closure Course delivery details The delivery of the RQF Level 3 Outdoor First Aid Course typically involves a combination of: Classroom Sessions: In-person training covering theoretical aspects of outdoor first aid, including lectures, discussions, and presentations. Practical Workshops: Hands-on sessions allowing participants to practice first aid skills specific to outdoor scenarios, utilising equipment and simulations. Outdoor Simulations: Realistic scenario-based training in outdoor environments, replicating emergencies encountered during outdoor activities. Interactive Learning: Engaging activities, group exercises, and case studies to reinforce learning and encourage interactive participation. Qualified Instructors: Training facilitated by experienced and certified outdoor first aid instructors knowledgeable about outdoor emergency management. Assessment and Certification: Evaluation of skills and understanding through practical assessments, quizzes, or examinations leading to certification upon successful completion. This mixed approach ensures a comprehensive understanding and practical application of first aid skills tailored for outdoor settings. Why choose Madeleys First Aid Plus Founded in 2021 after Louise left 30 years in the NHS as an Advanced practitioner in A&E/ITU, had spent 1.5 years in Covid ITU Won FSB Best start-up business in the West Midlands in May 2023 Now trained 100's of delegates in Physical and Mental Health First Aid Expenses Travel costs and lunch required, there are many cafes and sandwich bars here in Much Wenlock to buy your lunch, you may eat it in the training room. All training material, books, qualification certificates are included in the price Continuing Studies After completing the RQF Level 3 Outdoor First Aid Course, individuals may pursue further studies or complementary training, including: Advanced Outdoor First Aid Courses: Specialised courses focusing on specific aspects like wilderness trauma, advanced rescue techniques, or extended wilderness medical training. Wilderness Medicine Certification: Advanced programs offering in-depth knowledge in wilderness medicine, ideal for those aiming for higher expertise in outdoor medical care. Leadership and Outdoor Education Courses: Studies in leadership, outdoor education, or adventure sports coaching, complementing first aid skills for leadership roles in outdoor settings. Specialised Rescuer Certifications: Training in technical rescue skills, rope rescue, water rescue, or other specialized rescue techniques relevant to specific outdoor activities. Medical Certification Programs: Pursuing medical certifications or courses in emergency medicine, paramedicine, or healthcare, enhancing medical expertise for outdoor settings. Continued education allows individuals to deepen their understanding, broaden their skill set, and specialise further in managing emergencies in diverse outdoor environments

Are you requiring additional training to support your or your teams skills but can't see what you need in our advertised training courses? Then get in touch to design training/teambuilding specific to you or your team. How does it work? A free 30 minute consultation to discuss what you would like to achieve from a bespoke training course. A written proposal of what training may look like along with costings is emailed to you within 3 days of the initial consultation. If the proposal is agreed, then a date and time is agreed with both parties. Trainings can be delivered on a one to one basis, or with small - large groups. Recent bespoke training have been delivered covering topics such asCommunicationCustomer serviceTime ManagementDelegationWhat does professionalism look like? Prices start from £75.00. Contact us directly to organise bespoke training.

Course Overview Outstanding customer service doesn’t happen by accident- it’s the result of clear communication, empathy, consistency, and a strong customer-focused mindset. This practical one-day course helps participants develop the mindset, skills and strategies needed to provide exceptional service and handle difficult situations with confidence and professionalism. Through real-world scenarios, role plays and interactive discussions, participants will learn how to build rapport, respond to customer needs, and create positive experiences that leave a lasting impression—whether communicating face-to-face, by phone, email, or online. Who Should Attend This course is ideal for: Frontline staff in retail, hospitality, healthcare, call centres, or public service Administration or reception staff Technical support or helpdesk officers Any team member who interacts with customers, clients or stakeholders No previous training in customer service is required. Learning Outcomes By the end of the course, participants will be able to: Understand what excellent customer service looks like and why it matters Communicate clearly, professionally and confidently in different situations Build rapport with a wide range of customers Show empathy and listen actively to understand customer needs Handle complaints, concerns and difficult conversations calmly and constructively Maintain a positive attitude, even under pressure Represent their organisation in a consistent and professional way Course Content 1. Foundations of Customer Service Excellence What is excellent customer service? First impressions and the customer journey Attitude, tone and mindset 2. Communicating with Confidence The power of words, tone and body language Active listening and questioning skills Managing expectations and saying "no" professionally 3. Creating Positive Connections Building rapport and trust quickly Adapting your style for different customers Service recovery: turning complaints into opportunities 4. Handling Difficult Situations Staying calm under pressure Responding to frustration, complaints or anger The LEAPS model for difficult conversations (Listen, Empathise, Apologise, Provide solution, Summarise) 5. Service Across Channels Delivering service via phone, email and online Professional email and message tone Tips for consistency across different platforms 6. Practical Application and Action Planning Real-life scenarios and role plays Personal action planning for immediate workplace impact Sharing service tips and best practices Delivery Method The course is delivered in an engaging, interactive format and includes: Short trainer-led discussions Scenario-based activities Role plays with coaching Group discussions and shared insights Available as a face-to-face or live virtual workshop. Inclusions Participant workbook and tools Practical checklists and communication templates Certificate of completion Access to optional post-course coaching support

Course Overview Outstanding customer service doesn’t happen by accident- it’s the result of clear communication, empathy, consistency, and a strong customer-focused mindset. This practical one-day course helps participants develop the mindset, skills and strategies needed to provide exceptional service and handle difficult situations with confidence and professionalism. Through real-world scenarios, role plays and interactive discussions, participants will learn how to build rapport, respond to customer needs, and create positive experiences that leave a lasting impression—whether communicating face-to-face, by phone, email, or online. Who Should Attend This course is ideal for: Frontline staff in retail, hospitality, healthcare, call centres, or public service Administration or reception staff Technical support or helpdesk officers Any team member who interacts with customers, clients or stakeholders No previous training in customer service is required. Learning Outcomes By the end of the course, participants will be able to: Understand what excellent customer service looks like and why it matters Communicate clearly, professionally and confidently in different situations Build rapport with a wide range of customers Show empathy and listen actively to understand customer needs Handle complaints, concerns and difficult conversations calmly and constructively Maintain a positive attitude, even under pressure Represent their organisation in a consistent and professional way Course Content 1. Foundations of Customer Service Excellence What is excellent customer service? First impressions and the customer journey Attitude, tone and mindset 2. Communicating with Confidence The power of words, tone and body language Active listening and questioning skills Managing expectations and saying "no" professionally 3. Creating Positive Connections Building rapport and trust quickly Adapting your style for different customers Service recovery: turning complaints into opportunities 4. Handling Difficult Situations Staying calm under pressure Responding to frustration, complaints or anger The LEAPS model for difficult conversations (Listen, Empathise, Apologise, Provide solution, Summarise) 5. Service Across Channels Delivering service via phone, email and online Professional email and message tone Tips for consistency across different platforms 6. Practical Application and Action Planning Real-life scenarios and role plays Personal action planning for immediate workplace impact Sharing service tips and best practices Delivery Method The course is delivered in an engaging, interactive format and includes: Short trainer-led discussions Scenario-based activities Role plays with coaching Group discussions and shared insights Available as a face-to-face or live virtual workshop. Inclusions Participant workbook and tools Practical checklists and communication templates Certificate of completion Access to optional post-course coaching support

Course Duration: 1–2 days (or modular format across 3–4 sessions) Target Audience: Managers, team leaders, HR professionals, and anyone responsible for leading or being part of a high-performance team. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the key characteristics of high-performing teams. Apply strategies to build trust, collaboration, and accountability. Leverage diversity and strengths within the team. Align team goals with organisational objectives. Overcome challenges and navigate through conflict. Measure and sustain high performance over time. Course Outline Module 1: The Foundations of High-Performing Teams What defines a high-performing team? The stages of team development (Tuckman Model: Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, Adjourning) Key traits of successful teams (trust, collaboration, accountability) The importance of team culture and values Module 2: Team Roles and Dynamics Understanding team roles (e.g., Belbin’s Team Roles, Gallup’s StrengthsFinder) Building diverse teams with complementary skills Encouraging collaboration over competition Strategies for integrating different personalities and work styles Module 3: Leadership for High Performance The role of a leader in high-performing teams Transformational leadership vs transactional leadership Delegation and empowering team members Creating a vision and setting clear expectations Module 4: Building Trust and Effective Communication The role of trust in team performance Building rapport and psychological safety Developing active listening and feedback skills Encouraging open, honest, and transparent communication Module 5: Goal Setting and Alignment The SMART goal framework for teams Aligning team goals with organisational strategy Prioritising and tracking team performance Creating individual and team accountability Module 6: Conflict Management and Problem Solving Understanding and addressing team conflict Strategies for resolving disagreements and promoting collaboration Facilitating difficult conversations Problem-solving techniques and decision-making processes Module 7: Motivation, Recognition, and Sustaining Performance Motivating team members and recognising achievements Building a culture of continuous improvement Measuring team performance (KPIs, feedback loops, 360-degree reviews) Keeping momentum in long-term projects Module 8: Measuring Success and Continuously Improving Tools for measuring team effectiveness (e.g., surveys, team assessments) Adjusting processes and practices to ensure continuous high performance Developing a personal and team action plan for ongoing growth Creating a feedback loop for long-term success Delivery Style Interactive discussions and team exercises Group activities, role-playing, and case studies Practical tools and frameworks for immediate application Peer feedback and group coaching Course Materials Provided Participant workbook with key concepts, templates, and worksheets Team development toolkits (e.g., team assessment forms, feedback templates) Leadership and team-building resources for further learning Personal action plan template for team growth Optional Add-ons Personalised team assessment and tailored development plan Ongoing coaching sessions for team leaders Facilitated team-building activities for real-world application Post-course team performance follow-up and support

Course Duration: 1–2 days (or modular format across 3–4 sessions) Target Audience: Managers, team leaders, HR professionals, and anyone responsible for leading or being part of a high-performance team. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the key characteristics of high-performing teams. Apply strategies to build trust, collaboration, and accountability. Leverage diversity and strengths within the team. Align team goals with organisational objectives. Overcome challenges and navigate through conflict. Measure and sustain high performance over time. Course Outline Module 1: The Foundations of High-Performing Teams What defines a high-performing team? The stages of team development (Tuckman Model: Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, Adjourning) Key traits of successful teams (trust, collaboration, accountability) The importance of team culture and values Module 2: Team Roles and Dynamics Understanding team roles (e.g., Belbin’s Team Roles, Gallup’s StrengthsFinder) Building diverse teams with complementary skills Encouraging collaboration over competition Strategies for integrating different personalities and work styles Module 3: Leadership for High Performance The role of a leader in high-performing teams Transformational leadership vs transactional leadership Delegation and empowering team members Creating a vision and setting clear expectations Module 4: Building Trust and Effective Communication The role of trust in team performance Building rapport and psychological safety Developing active listening and feedback skills Encouraging open, honest, and transparent communication Module 5: Goal Setting and Alignment The SMART goal framework for teams Aligning team goals with organisational strategy Prioritising and tracking team performance Creating individual and team accountability Module 6: Conflict Management and Problem Solving Understanding and addressing team conflict Strategies for resolving disagreements and promoting collaboration Facilitating difficult conversations Problem-solving techniques and decision-making processes Module 7: Motivation, Recognition, and Sustaining Performance Motivating team members and recognising achievements Building a culture of continuous improvement Measuring team performance (KPIs, feedback loops, 360-degree reviews) Keeping momentum in long-term projects Module 8: Measuring Success and Continuously Improving Tools for measuring team effectiveness (e.g., surveys, team assessments) Adjusting processes and practices to ensure continuous high performance Developing a personal and team action plan for ongoing growth Creating a feedback loop for long-term success Delivery Style Interactive discussions and team exercises Group activities, role-playing, and case studies Practical tools and frameworks for immediate application Peer feedback and group coaching Course Materials Provided Participant workbook with key concepts, templates, and worksheets Team development toolkits (e.g., team assessment forms, feedback templates) Leadership and team-building resources for further learning Personal action plan template for team growth Optional Add-ons Personalised team assessment and tailored development plan Ongoing coaching sessions for team leaders Facilitated team-building activities for real-world application Post-course team performance follow-up and support

RSPH level 2 Identifying and Controlling Food Allergy Risks Training Course Do you need an allergy trainer to come to your food business and teach your staff face to face about food and drink allergens, their dangers and how to control them? Our allergy trainer can come to your business and deliver this course at your business premises. Although we are based in London, we are happy to travel and deliver this course at your business location. (Trainer travel fees may be applicable depending on your location). Staff will receive interactive training and coaching on allergens and intolerances with an experienced trainer. We can also tweak the training to include issues you would like to cover. See our website for more details. Special offer for on-site allergy training. £250 plus £20pp includes RSPH exam fees (usually £350 plus £30pp) This course is suitable for any catering business such as restaurants, pubs, hotels, cafes, catering companies, cooks, self employed, artisans, event caterers and more. This course is also important for staff who are Front of House, who take customer orders and relay the orders to cooks and chefs and other people who are preparing food for customers who have allergies and or intolerances. This is a short one day training course, typically 9am-3pm. Topics covered include- Allergens, Allergen Identification, Cross contact, Cross Contamination, Allergic Reactions, Food Intolerances, Coeliac, Anaphylaxis, Natasha's Law, UK Food Safety Regulations, Allergy Controls, Substituting ingredients, Customer Communication and what to do in an Emergency. Contact us to book training.

Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Differentiate between coaching and mentoring and understand their unique purposes. Apply effective communication and active listening skills in developmental conversations. Use coaching models to guide structured conversations. Build trust and psychological safety in coaching and mentoring relationships. Create actionable development plans and track progress. Understand ethical boundaries and confidentiality. Course Outline Day 1: Foundations of Coaching and Mentoring Session 1: Introduction and Context What is coaching? What is mentoring? Key differences and when to use each Benefits to individuals and organisations Session 2: Core Skills for Effective Coaching and Mentoring Active listening Powerful questioning Giving and receiving feedback Empathy and emotional intelligence Session 3: Building Trust and Creating Psychological Safety Establishing rapport Confidentiality and ethical guidelines Setting boundaries and expectations Session 4: Coaching Models and Frameworks GROW Model (Goal, Reality, Options, Will) OSKAR and CLEAR frameworks Practical application and role play Day 2: Practising and Embedding Coaching and Mentoring Session 5: The Coaching and Mentoring Conversation Structuring conversations Using real-life workplace examples Practice with feedback Session 6: Setting Goals and Development Plans SMART and CLEAR goal setting Creating growth-focused action plans Monitoring progress and accountability Session 7: Mentoring for Career and Leadership Development Mentor roles and responsibilities Supporting long-term growth and resilience Reverse mentoring and cross-generational partnerships Session 8: Embedding a Coaching and Mentoring Culture How to support coaching within your team or organisation Integrating into performance conversations Sustaining development through peer coaching and communities of practice Assessment and Evaluation Participation in discussions and practical activities Feedback on peer coaching/mentoring exercises Optional personal development plan submission Course Materials Provided Participant workbook Coaching and mentoring toolkit (templates, models, guides) Suggested reading and resource list

Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Differentiate between coaching and mentoring and understand their unique purposes. Apply effective communication and active listening skills in developmental conversations. Use coaching models to guide structured conversations. Build trust and psychological safety in coaching and mentoring relationships. Create actionable development plans and track progress. Understand ethical boundaries and confidentiality. Course Outline Day 1: Foundations of Coaching and Mentoring Session 1: Introduction and Context What is coaching? What is mentoring? Key differences and when to use each Benefits to individuals and organisations Session 2: Core Skills for Effective Coaching and Mentoring Active listening Powerful questioning Giving and receiving feedback Empathy and emotional intelligence Session 3: Building Trust and Creating Psychological Safety Establishing rapport Confidentiality and ethical guidelines Setting boundaries and expectations Session 4: Coaching Models and Frameworks GROW Model (Goal, Reality, Options, Will) OSKAR and CLEAR frameworks Practical application and role play Day 2: Practising and Embedding Coaching and Mentoring Session 5: The Coaching and Mentoring Conversation Structuring conversations Using real-life workplace examples Practice with feedback Session 6: Setting Goals and Development Plans SMART and CLEAR goal setting Creating growth-focused action plans Monitoring progress and accountability Session 7: Mentoring for Career and Leadership Development Mentor roles and responsibilities Supporting long-term growth and resilience Reverse mentoring and cross-generational partnerships Session 8: Embedding a Coaching and Mentoring Culture How to support coaching within your team or organisation Integrating into performance conversations Sustaining development through peer coaching and communities of practice Assessment and Evaluation Participation in discussions and practical activities Feedback on peer coaching/mentoring exercises Optional personal development plan submission Course Materials Provided Participant workbook Coaching and mentoring toolkit (templates, models, guides) Suggested reading and resource list