Training & Events

AAIS Moving On Up : Transfer Training for Parents of Primary 7 Pupils

AIMS:

• To develop knowledge and understanding of the implications of the transfer process for pupils with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder

• To provide guidance in the completion of the Individual Pupil Profile for Year 7 pupils

• To provide a range of practical strategies to support the child in his/her transfer to the Post Primary Sector

COURSE DETAILS:

THIS COURSE MAY BE VIEWED ANYTIME UP TO 31/08/2025

It is an online course and details will be included in the confirmation email on how to access training.

 

COURSE DURATION:

17 minutes

 

Audience:

This course is specifically designed for Parents with Pupils moving into Post Primary School. 

** Please ensure you have entered your email address correctly **

AAIS Moving On Up - Transfer Training for Primary Professionals

AIMS:

- To develop knowledge and understanding of the implications of the transfer process for pupils with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder

- To provide guidance in the completion of the Individual Pupil Profile for Year 7 pupils

- To provide a range of practical strategies to support the child in his/her transfer to the Post Primary Sector

COURSE DETAILS:

Training can be viewed any time suitable to the participant up to 31/08/2025.

It is an online course and details will be included in the confirmation email on how to access training.

** Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details in the confirmation email **

 

COURSE DURATION:

23 minutes

 

Audience:

Primary KS2, Teachers, Classroom Assistants and SENCos

** All participants should register individually even if the training is viewed within a group setting as this information is required for stats purposes  **

DENI Number

During the registration process you will be asked for your setting’s Department of Education Reference Number - this must be input accurately.

**If your setting is outside Northern Ireland please select ‘Outside Northern Ireland’ or if you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’

AAIS Sensory Processing and Autism Spectrum Disorder for staff in Pre-school Setting

AIMS:

- Recognise and acknowledge sensory sensitivities associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

- Explore a range of practical strategies, with an emphasis on sensory strategies to support the pupil with ASD.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year up to 31/08/2025.

The link to access the course will be provided in the confirmation of registration email.

** Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details **

Course Duration:

53 minutes

Audience

 Pre-School Teachers, Classroom Assistants, SENCOs

** All participants should register individually even if the training is viewed within a group setting as this information is required for stats purposes  **

DENI Number

During the registration process you will be asked for your setting’s Department of Education Reference Number - this must be input accurately.

**If your setting is outside Northern Ireland please select ‘Outside Northern Ireland’ or if you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’

AAIS Sensory Processing and Autism Spectrum Disorder for Early Years, Primary and Special School Staff

AIMS:

- Recognise and acknowledge sensory sensitivities associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

- Explore a range of practical strategies, with an emphasis on sensory strategies to support the early years, primary and special school pupil with ASD.

 

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year up to 31/08/2025.

The link to access the course will be provided in the confirmation of registration email. 

** Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details **

Course Duration:

53 minutes

Audience:

Pre-School, Primary and Special Teachers, Classroom Assistants and SENCos

** All participants should register individually even if the training is viewed within a group setting as this information is required for stats purposes  **

DENI Number

During the registration process you will be asked for your setting’s Department of Education Reference Number - this must be input accurately.

**If your setting is outside Northern Ireland please select ‘Outside Northern Ireland’ or if you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’

AAIS Sensory Rooms: Recommendations for Pre-School settings

AIMS:

- To recognise and acknowledge sensory sensitivities associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

- To explore a range of considerations and recommendations when setting up a sensory room within the pre-school setting

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year up to 31/08/2025.

The link to access the course will be provided in the confirmation of registration email.

** Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details **

Course Duration

17 minutes

Audience

Pre-school Teachers, Classroom Assistants and SENCO's

** All participants should register individually even if the training is viewed within a group setting as this information is required for stats purposes  **

DENI Number

During the registration process you will be asked for your setting’s Department of Education Reference Number - this must be input accurately.

**If your setting is outside Northern Ireland please select ‘Outside Northern Ireland’ or if you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’

AAIS Sensory Rooms: Recommendations for Early Years and Primary School Settings

AIMS:

- Recognise and acknowledge sensory sensitivities associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

- Explore a range of considerations and recommendations when setting up a sensory room within the early years and primary school setting

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year up to 31/08/2025.

The link to access the course will be provided in the confirmation of registration email.

** Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details **

Course Duration:

17 minutes

Audience:

 Pre School and Primary and Special Teachers, Classroom Assistants and SENCos

** All participants should register individually even if the training is viewed within a group setting as this information is required for stats purposes  **

DENI Number

During the registration process you will be asked for your setting’s Department of Education Reference Number - this must be input accurately.

**If your setting is outside Northern Ireland please select ‘Outside Northern Ireland’ or if you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’

AAIS Tier 1: Autism – The Basics for Early Years

AIMS:

- To increase your knowledge and understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

- To explore a range of practical strategies, strategies to support the pupil with ASD

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year up to 31/08/2025.

The link to access the course will be provided in the confirmation of registration email.

** Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details **

Course Duration:

30 minutes

Audience:

Early Years Teachers, Classroom Assistants and SENCOs

** All participants should register individually even if the training is viewed within a group setting as this information is required for stats purposes  **

DENI Number

During the registration process you will be asked for your setting’s Department of Education Reference Number - this must be input accurately.

**If your setting is outside Northern Ireland please select ‘Outside Northern Ireland’ or if you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’

AAIS Tier 1 ASD Online Training for Primary Professionals

AIMS:

- To develop knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

- To help staff adapt existing teaching and learning approaches to incorporate the strengths and needs of pupils with ASD

COURSE DETAILS:

Course will be available to access online throughout the school year up to 31/08/2025. The link to access the course will be provided in the confirmation of registration email.

** Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details **

Course Duration:

1 Hour maximum

Audience:

Primary Teachers, Classroom Assistants and SENCos

** All participants should register individually even if the training is viewed within a group setting as this information is required for stats purposes  **

DENI Number

During the registration process you will be asked for your setting’s Department of Education Reference Number - this must be input accurately.

**If your setting is outside Northern Ireland please select ‘Outside Northern Ireland’ or if you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’

An introduction to Addressing Bullying Type Behaviour ABSIT Level 1 training for all staff working in schools across Northern Ireland

EA ABSIT: Addressing Bullying in Schools Level 1 Training

An introduction to the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (NI) 2016: important advisory information for all staff working in schools in Northern Ireland.

Outcomes:

Awareness of core aspects of the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act N.I. (2016) legislation and guidance.  Shared understanding of the definition of bullying type behaviour to be used in all schools in Northern Ireland.  Knowledge of the potential signs/symptoms of bullying type behaviour and systems for reporting/sharing any concerns.   Understanding what to do if you have a concern or one is shared with you, and the systems and processes for follow-up of concerns in your school.

Online (Asynchronous)

C2k - DENI Census Overview: Primary

C2k are offering online DENI overview sessions using Microsoft Teams. The overview will be useful for All Staff working on the DENI Census return.

Course Content:

Introduction PowerPoint - includes course content/important dates and processes My School - navigate to guidance documentation, highlighting areas such as DENI checks e.g. reports and option of Bulk update Run through checking reports - e.g recording pre-school experience, missing religion/ethnicity and home language, accommodation type, FSM (start and end dates), SEN register checklist, SPiM Prepare DENI Census Create Return Red Validations - fix/check over black error warnings Summary Tables/Detailed report Sign Off Export/Anycomms

 

Dates TBC
Expected to take place Term 1 2025

C2k - DENI Census Overview: Post Primary

C2k are offering online DENI overview sessions using Microsoft Teams. The overview will be useful for All Staff working on the DENI Census return.

Course Content:

Introduction PowerPoint - includes course content/important dates and processes My School - navigate to guidance documentation, highlighting areas such as DENI checks e.g. reports and option of Bulk update Run through checking reports - e.g recording pre-school experience, missing religion/ethnicity and home language, accommodation type, FSM (start and end dates), SEN register checklist, SPiM Prepare DENI Census Create Return Red Validations - fix/check over black error warnings Summary Tables/Detailed report Sign Off Export/Anycomms Dates TBC
Expected to take place Term 1 2025

C2k - New C2k Manager Training

This course is for anyone new to the role of a school C2k Manager.

The Course will demonstrate how to manage the C2k network in school and will cover the following:

The Managed Desktop User Management and Provisioning Internet Filtering The Local Area Network (LAN) Workstation Management Wireless Conclusion (including Q&A) Dates tbc
Expected to take place Term 1 2025

C2k - SMS Exams Management - New Exams Officers

The course is for anyone new to the role of Exams Officer in Post Primary, Special or EOTAS.

The Course will demonstrate how to set up the Examinations Organiser module in the school SMS and use it to make examination entries and other processes associated with efficient exams administration. It will also give an overview of the support available for an Examinations Officer.

Setups in Exams software Import and refresh of base data Entering Candidates Individually Making entries using marksheets Creation of entry & submission files Seating Organiser Results Import Dates TBC
Expected to take place Term 1 2025

C2k - Timetabling & Curriculum Planning

C2k are offering Post Primary schools to attend a three-day training course for new timetablers. The course is designed for school staff who have not previously attended a C2k timetable training course and who will be actively involved in their school’s timetabling process.

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Transferring and editing the curriculum The Cycle: days & periods Plan subjects, teachers and rooms Session lengths Staffing classes Non-Class codes Preparation for scheduling Partial schedule trials and combing chart Manual scheduling by band and block Auto-scheduling Bending and breaking scheduling rules Other scheduling techniques Optimising the timetable Rooming: automatic and manual Alternative Curriculum Exporting timetable to SIMS Dates tbc
Expected to take place Term 2 & 3 2025-26

C2k - SMS Exams Summer Results Import and Reporting

C2k is offering a training overview in preparation for the import of the Summer Series Results.

The course is for anyone new to the role of Examinations Officer or anyone who would like a refresher on importing and reporting on the Summer Series results.

The course will demonstrate how to check the Examinations Organiser module in preparation for the results download. It will also cover some A2C checks.

The course will cover the following:

Preliminary checks. Results embargo. Downloading and importing results. Reporting on results. Creating marksheets for displaying results, re-marks or missing marks. Dates TBC
Expected to take place Term 3 2025-26

C2k - SMS End of Year Online Overview (Post Primary)

C2k are offering an online session to outline the End of Year Procedures carried out in SIMS.

The overview is directed at the members of staff in school who will be editing the Pastoral Structure and assigning pupils to Registration Groups (not academic classes) etc. in SIMS.
The overview will cover parts of the End of Year and Preparation for New Academic Year procedures.

Procedures covered will include:

Editing Academic Year (check Autumn Term Start Date) Adding FSM End Date Changing application status of new Year 8 students Pastoral Structure – Next Academic Year School Promotion Dealing with Leavers The School Closures and Planner report Dates tbc
Expected to take place Term 3 2025-26

C2k - SMS End of Year Online Overview (Primary, Special & EOTAS)

C2k are offering online sessions to outline the SMS End of Year procedures.  The overviews are directed at staff in school who will be assigning pupils to classes, etc. in SMS e.g. School Secretary and/or Principal.  Staff in school must carry out all these processes.

Editing Academic Year (check Autumn Term Start Date) Adding FSM End Date Accept Applications Pastoral Structure -  Next Academic Year School Promotion Attendance procedures to be completed including Archiving The School Closures and Planner report Dates tbc
Expected to take place Term 3 2025-26

Safeguarding Children who Perform Chaperone Training for Licensing and Registration

Course Details:

This training will be available until 31 December 2025. Following enrolment, you will receive the link to access the online training video and evaluation form. You can do this at a time that is convenient for you, up until 31 December 2025.

Aims:      

To build an understanding of safeguarding and child protection matters and to inform you about what to do if you have concerns regarding children that relate to safeguarding and child protection

 Outcomes:

Recognise and respond to children and young people’s safeguarding issues

Understand your own role and that of others

Contribute to the assessment and management of risk

Assist in safeguardingand promoting the welfare of children and young people

Understand the importance of your own behaviour and boundaries

Audience:

Chaperones

Safeguarding & Child Protection Training for Newly Appointed Designated & Deputy Designated Teachers

AIMS:

To enable Designated and Deputy Designated teachers to have an understanding of child protection and safeguarding issues.​

To equip Designated and Deputy Designated teachers with the knowledge and skills required to apply relevant child protection legislation, policies and procedures to their day to day practice.​

​OBJECTIVES:

Day 1:

Become familiar with the principles, legislation, policies and guidance underpinning safeguarding and the relationship between safeguarding and child protection.​​

Recognise and discuss the signs and symptoms of physical, sexual, emotional abuse, neglect and exploitation through the use of case studies.​​

Increase awareness of specific safeguarding issues such as neglect, mental health, child sexual exploitation and online safety and recognise safeguarding issues for children with increased vulnerabilities.​​

The roles and responsibilities of Designated Teachers, the safeguarding team, Board of Governors, EA CPSS and ETI and SBNI/Case Management Reviews.
Record Keeping and Records Management.

​Day 2:

Through the use of a case study focusing on Domestic Violence and Abuse participants should become familiar with the following:

Domestic Violence and Abuse Issues​
Challenges for children and professionals in managing disclosures​
Recognising, receiving, responding to and recording activities following a disclosure or observation of child abuse​
Use of the UNOCINI referral document​
Relationships with our partner agencies and how we communicate with them.​
Case conference and decision making
Recording and record keeping​

Audience

Newly Appointed Designated & Deputy Designated Teachers

Course Details:

October 2025 – March 2026

9:30am -  4:00pm

Sub cover provided to a maximum of £246 for a full day (this rate is subject to change).

Participants will be invited directly to book onto training by the Child Protection Support Service Team.  If you have any queries, please email cpssdutyandtraining@eani.org.uk.

Safeguarding & Child Protection Training for First Time Principals

AIMS

To provide newly appointed Principals with the knowledge and understanding to fulfil their role in managing safeguarding and child protection in their school/educational setting.

OBJECTIVES

•  Identify the role of members of the school safeguarding team.
•  Become familiar with the role of and support offered by the EA Child Protection Support Service (CPSS).
•  Discuss the role of ETI in safeguarding and child protection.
•  Increase their knowledge of legislation and DE guidance governing safeguarding and child protection.
•  Understand the role of the Principal in managing allegations against members of staff.
•  Consider the requirements around record keeping.
•  Become familiar with the Case Management Review process and the messages for schools from recent SBNI CMR reviews.
•  Become familiar with Domestic Homicide Reviews and the role of Education in the process.

Audience

Newly Appointed Principals

Course Details:

October 2025 – March 2026

9:30am -  4:00pm

Sub cover provided to a maximum of £246 for a full day (this rate is subject to change).

Participants will be invited directly to book onto training by the Child Protection Support Service Team.  If you have any queries, please email cpssdutyandtraining@eani.org.uk.

Safeguarding & Child Protection Refresher Training for Designated & Deputy Designated Teachers

AIMS:

To enable DTs/DDTs to further their understanding of safeguarding and child protection issues in line with SBNI 4-year strategy and updated DE guidance.

To increase DTs/DDTs knowledge and skills in the application of relevant safeguarding and child protection legislation, policies and procedures by drawing on their experiences to date.

Learning:

Revisit key aspects of your previous safeguarding and child protection training.​
Consider recent trends and developments in safeguarding and child protection. ​
Use practice examples to reflect on the Designated Teacher Role.

Audience

Designated & Deputy Designated Teachers

Course Details:

October 2025 – March 2026

9:30am -  13:00 pm

Sub cover provided to a maximum of £246 for a full day (this rate is subject to change).

Participants will be invited directly to book onto training by the Child Protection Support Service Team.  If you have any queries, please email cpssdutyandtraining@eani.org.uk.

Safeguarding & Child Protection Online Principal Refresher Training

The Child Protection Support Service (CPSS) has developed online refresher training for school principals in the form of 3 pre-recorded sessions for those principals whose training has or is due to expire during the school year 2025/2026. 

AIM:

To provide newly appointed principals with knowledge and understanding to fulfil their role in managing safeguarding and child protection in their school/educational setting.

Objectives:

Principal will have the opportunity to:

Identify the role of the members of the school safeguarding team.

Become familiar with the role of and support offered by the EA Child Protection Support Service (CPSS)

Discuss the role of ETi in safeguarding in child protection.

Increase their knowledge of legislation and DE Guidance governing safeguarding and child protection

Have an understanding of Operation Encompass and the responsibilities of the safeguarding team in this process.

Audience

All Principals

Course Details:

September 2025 – March 2026

9:30am -  13:00 pm

Sub cover provided to a maximum of £123 for a half day (this rate is subject to change).

Participants will be invited directly to complete training by the Child Protection Support Service Team.  If you have any queries, please email cpssdutyandtraining@eani.org.uk.

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)

Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a type of sexual abuse. It happens when a child or young person is coerced, manipulated or deceived into sexual activity in exchange for things that they may need or want like gifts, drugs, money, status and affection. Children and young people are often tricked into believing they're in a loving and consensual relationship so the sexual activity may appear consensual. This is called grooming and is a type of abuse. They may trust their abuser and not understand that they're being abused. CSE does not always involve physical contact, and can also occur through the use of technology.

Join us to understand CSE, and how to support a pupil and their parents/carers once it is known that CSE is suspected or confirmed.

Course Details:

Pre-recorded and online.

Sub cover is not available.

Safeguarding & Child Protection - Responding to Neglect in Educational Settings

This pre-recorded training explores the different types of neglect, with a focus on the impact of neglect on a child’s overall development. It provides participants with the knowledge and tools to recognise and respond to neglect, to develop a support plan for a child at risk of neglect, and signposts to practical ideas of how to engage parents in discussions about the impact of neglect. It is underpinned by the recognition that every child needs at least one adult that is responsive to their needs.

Course Details:

Pre-recorded and online.

Sub cover is not available.

Power to Change. Ending Violence Against Women and Girls

The ‘Power to Change Campaign’ is part of the NI Strategy to End Violence Against Woman and Girls (VAWG). The campaign was launched by the PSNI in January 2025 in collaboration with the Department of Justice and the Executive Office.  The recorded webinar and the learning resources provided for use with staff and young people are designed to fit in with the preventative curriculum.  The aim of the campaign is to invite and encourage all men and boys to check and change their attitudes, beliefs and behaviours towards women and girls; to challenge their peers, and to have the confidence to step in safely to put a stop to behaviour that might put their friends at risk of offending. The campaign also hopes to instigate conversations about the influence of social media – and help to educate about the powerful algorithms that are behind the pushed microdoses of misogynistic and harmful messaging.

The webinar was hosted on MS Teams and introduced by Therese Moran (CPSS).  It is delivered by Lindsay Fisher (PSNI Detective Superintendent and  PSNI lead for the campaign), with an input from Jane McCarthy from The Executive Office. 

Course Details:

Pre-recorded and online.

Sub cover is not available.

Addressing Bullying in Schools Leadership Training Programme 2025-26

Please note 2025-26 dates TBC booking will become available mid June 25.

Title: Addressing Bullying in Schools Leadership Training Programme

A comprehensive professional development programme for Safeguarding, Social, Behavioural and Emotional Wellbeing (SBEW) pastoral leads and SENCOs/Learning Support Coordinators in schools.

Programme Aim

For all pupils in the region to attend a school where staff are trained to implement a supportive Addressing Bullying in Schools policy with associated practices.

Purpose

To build the confidence and ability of school leaders to align and implement an evidence-based, whole school approach to support children and young people, address statutory requirements and embed best practice. Connecting legislation, baseline-assessment, research, systems/processes, preventative approaches, effective responses, stakeholder engagement and communication, and policy.

Programme Structure

Attendance at a 1-day face-to-face launch workshop (participants can choose from 3 different venues across the region and dates). Attendance of 5 online follow-up sessions (participants can select to attend either am or pm session which are offered on different days). Independent engagement with online resource materials shared through the SDS learning platform. Completion of associated tasks aligned to the review and update of school policy and associated practices.

Depending on your school size and structure, it is recommended that at least 2 members (max: 5) of the pastoral leadership team attend the training together. 

Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA) - A framework for supporting Post-Primary Pupils.

This training is suitable for post-primary school staff who work directly with children, young people and families. It is particularly useful for SENCOs, those who work in a pastoral care role and any member of staff responsible for supporting attendance.

The training will be delivered across two sessions as follows:

Session One aims to assist school staff in understanding EBSNA, including the factors that can contribute to it, and maintain it.

Session Two aims to provide school staff with practical ideas and strategies to support young people experiencing EBSNA.

This training will be delivered once per term on the following dates, please note that participants must be available to attend both sessions.

Term 1 Training Dates 

Session 1: 12th November 2024 3:00pm-5:00pm Session 2: 19th November 2024 3:00pm-5:00pm

Term 2 Training Dates

Session 1 : 28th January 2025 3:00pm-5:00pm Session 2: 4th February 2025 3:00pm-5:00pm

Term 3 Training Dates

Session 1: 13th May 2025 3:00pm-5:00pm Session 2: 20th May 2025 3:00pm-5:00pm

This is an online training event and will take place via Microsoft Teams. 

Please Note: Due to limited spaces and availability, we can only allow 2 members of staff per school to attend training.

 

2025-26 Training Dates

Term 1 Training Dates

Session 1: 11th November 2025 3:00pm-5:00pm Session 2: 18th November 2025 3:00pm-5:00pm

Term 2 Training Dates

Session 1: 27th January 2026 3:00pm-5:00pm Session 2: 3rd February 2026 3:00pm-5:00pm

Term 3 Training Dates

Session 1: 12th May 2026 3:00pm-5:00pm Session 2: 19th May 2026 3:00pm-5:00pm

 

Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA) - A framework for supporting Primary Pupils

This training is suitable for primary school staff who work directly with children, young people and families. It is particularly useful for SENCOs, those who work in a pastoral care role and any member of staff responsible for supporting attendance.

The training aims to:

Assist staff in identifying and understanding EBSNA, including the factors that can contribute to it, and maintain it. Provide staff with practical ideas and strategies to support young people experiencing EBSNA.

Training will be delivered on the following dates:

Option 1: Wednesday 26th February 2025, 3-5pm. Option 2: Wednesday 7th May 2025, 3-5pm.

This is an online training event and will take place via Microsoft Teams. 

Please Note: Due to limited spaces and availability, we can only allow 2 members of staff per school to attend training.

Supporting the Education Needs of Children with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)

This training is suitable for EA staff who work directly with children and young people, schools and families.

AIMS:

 

To provide an understanding of bereavement, grief responses and mourning​ To increase awareness of the ways in which children and young people grieve ​ To explore effective strategies which support children and young people through bereavement and loss​

 

TIME:

9.30am - 1.00pm

This online training event will take place via Zoom.

Cognition and Learning Needs - Acquired Brain Injury Q & A session

This training is provided jointly by the Educational Psychology Service and the Paediatric Regional Acquired Brain Injury Service (PRABIS).  The PRABIS is a regional multi-professional team including a Clinical Psychologist, Occupational Therapist and Speech and Language Therapist. 

Please use the following link to access the PRABIS webpage: Paediatric Regional Acquired Brain Injury Service (PRABIS) | Belfast Health & Social Care Trust website

 

Q & A Session for joint consultation with Paediatric Regional Acquired Brain Injury Service (PRABIS) and Educational Psychology Service (EPS).

This session will focus on cognition and learning needs and there will be opportunity for you to address your concerns and seek advice specific to your pupils.

This may include examples of relevant strategies for use in school or help with IEP/PLP targets.

An opportunity for open discussion about your pupils’ ABI needs and strategies within schools.  These are informal interactive sessions which will focus on the key SEN categories.  Advice will be given and questions answered by members of the ABI team.  Further information can be sought once your place is booked

TIME:

9.30am - 11.00am

This online training event will take place via Microsoft Teams

Social, Emotional and wellbeing needs - Acquired Brain Injury Q & A session

 

This training is provided jointly by the Educational Psychology Service and the Paediatric Regional Acquired Brain Injury Service (PRABIS).  The PRABIS is a regional multi-professional team including a Clinical Psychologist, Occupational Therapist and Speech and Language Therapist. 

Please use the following link to access the PRABIS webpage: Paediatric Regional Acquired Brain Injury Service (PRABIS) | Belfast Health & Social Care Trust website

 

 

Q & A Session for joint consultation with Paediatric Regional Acquired Brain Injury Service (PRABIS) and Educational Psychology Service (EPS).

This session will focus on emotional wellbeing and peer relationships and there will be opportunity for you to address your concerns and seek advice specific to your pupils.

This may include examples of relevant strategies for use in school or help with IEP/PLP targets.

An opportunity for open discussion about your pupils’ ABI needs and strategies within schools.  These are informal interactive sessions which will focus on the key SEN categories.  Advice will be given and questions answered by members of the ABI team.  Further information can be sought once your place is booked.

TIME:

9.30am - 11.00am

This online training event will take place via Microsoft Teams.

Sensory and Physical needs - Acquired Brain Injury Q & A session

 

This training is provided jointly by the Educational Psychology Service and the Paediatric Regional Acquired Brain Injury Service (PRABIS).  The PRABIS is a regional multi-professional team including a Clinical Psychologist, Occupational Therapist and Speech and Language Therapist. 

Please use the following link to access the PRABIS webpage: Paediatric Regional Acquired Brain Injury Service (PRABIS) | Belfast Health & Social Care Trust website

 

Q & A Session for joint consultation with Paediatric Regional Acquired Brain Injury Service (PRABIS) and Educational Psychology Service (EPS).

This session will focus on Physical and Sensory needs and there will be opportunity for you to address your concerns and seek advice specific to your pupils.

This may include examples of relevant strategies for use in school or help with IEP/PLP targets.

An opportunity for open discussion about your pupils’ ABI needs and strategies within schools.  These are informal interactive sessions which will focus on the key SEN categories.  Advice will be given and questions answered by members of the ABI team.  Further information can be sought once your place is booked.

TIME:

9.30am - 11.00am

This online training event will take place via Microsoft Teams.

Suicide Awareness Training - Connections Link Life

CONNECTIONS LINK LIFE: Suicide Awareness Training

This training course covers:

Contributing factors that lead to poor mental health, emotional distress & suicide prevention awareness Understanding the role of mental health and emotions in relation to suicide prevention awareness Connect 4-Way Model for helping persons experiencing emotional distress or suicide Tools & resources for support in your community The role of self-care and wellbeing in fortifying mental health and preventing suicide

Participation & Readiness:

We ask that you are emotionally ready for suicide prevention awareness training and understand how to participate;

It is important you click to read and understand *Am I Suitable?*  Suicide prevention awareness training is potentially triggering Be confident in your ability to cope with the content of the training Take steps to keep yourself emotionally safe during training Best practice advises that people who have been bereaved by suicide or by any other traumatic death within the last 6 months, should not attend It is important that you click to read and understand the *How To Participate group agreement*

Course Details:

11th November 2025

20th January 2026

7th May 2026

Time: 9.30am - 1.00pm

Training will take place via online platform.  

Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details. You will receive a reminder email and a link to the online session a week before the training date.

Audience: Primary, KS2 and Post Primary SENCO's, Principals and Pastoral Vice-Principals

Developing a Whole School Response to Bereavement and Critical Incidents (2 day course)

Developing a Whole School Response to Bereavement and Critical Incidents (2 day course)

This course is designed to equip school leaders with the knowledge and skills to support those experincing loss within their school community and assist schools to prepare for a critical incident. The effects of a critical incident on pupils, staff and communities can be wide-ranging and when a school is affected all staff have an important role to play. This professional learning will also provide insight into the role of the EA Critical Incident Response Team. 

Day One 

Participants will:

Develop greater knowledge and understanding of bereavement and grief responses. Develop an enhanced ability to support bereavement and loss issues within the educational setting. Gain an increased confidence in identifying, supporting, and signposting those experiencing grief. 

Day Two

Participants will:

Gain an increased understanding of the supportive role of the Education Authority Critical Incident Response Team Have greater awareness of the many complex issues accompanying a critical incident Have increased knowledge and resources to develop a Critical Incident Management Policy and Plan

Course Details:

This course is a two day course and attendance on both days is compulsory.

30th September 2025 & 1st October 2025

3rd & 4th February 2026

19th & 20th May 2026

Time: 9.30am - 1.00pm (on 2 consecutive days)

Training will take place via online platform. 

Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details. You will receive a reminder email and a link to the online session a week before the training date.

Audience: Primary, KS2 and Post Primary SENCO's, Principals and Pastoral Vice-Principals

Promoting Positive Emotional Health and Wellbeing

Promoting Positive Emotional Health and Wellbeing 

This professional learning is designed to equip school staff with essential knowledge and practical strategies to support the emotional health and wellbeing of students. Participants will learn coping and self-care strategies that they can use daily to support their mental health. By prioritising mental health, we can significantly enhance the learning experience and overall wellbeing of our school community.

Participants will:

Increase understanding of mental health and wellbeing issues that impact children's and young people's readiness to learn. Improve ability to promote and support positive mental health and wellbeing within the educational setting. Gain greater confidence to identify, offer support, and signpost individuals experiencing wellbeing issues.

Course Details:

16th October 2025

29th January 2026

23rd April 2026

Time: 9.30am - 1.00pm

Training will take place via online platform.

Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details. You will receive a reminder email and a link to the online session a week before the training date.

Audience: Primary and Post Primary Staff, SENCO's, Principals and Pastoral Vice-Principals

Nurturing Resilience

Nurturing Resilience

The Nurturing Resilience professional learning course is for school staff and is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to support children and young people in developing and further developing resilience, as well as including guidance for staff in how they too can further develop resilience in and for themselves.

This program will cover:

Research and resilience Risk and Protective Factors Emotional, Academic, Social Resilience - Growth Mindset - Resources to use in the classroom setting Ideas for embedding resilience as a whole school

Participants will:

Understand the concept of resilience, where it came from, different perceptions and misconceptions regarding resilience and ultimately why it’s important for pupils. Identify the different aspects of resilience. Discover some resources that you can bring directly into your classroom/school to help nurture resilience as well as being signposted to further research/reading.

Course Details:

7th October 2025

26th February 2026

12th May 2026

Time: 9.30am - 12pm

Training will take place via online platform.

Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details. You will receive a reminder email and a link to the online session a week before the training date.

Understanding Bereavement & Loss

Understanding Bereavement & Loss

The Bereavement and Loss professional learning course is for School Staff and is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to support children and young people experiencing loss. This program will enhance participants' understanding of grief, develop their ability to provide effective support, and increase their confidence in handling the complexities of grief and provide compassionate support to those in need.

Participants will:

Develop greater knowledge and understanding of bereavement and grief responses. Develop an enhanced ability to support bereavement and loss issues within the educational setting. Gain an increased confidence in identifying, supporting, and signposting those experiencing grief.

Course Details:

21st October 2025

3rd March 2026

26th May 2026

Time: 9.30am - 1.00pm

Training will take place via online platform.

Please ensure you have entered your email correctly to receive the training details. You will receive a reminder email and a link to the online session a week before the training date.

First Aid at Work Training (3 Day)

Three day First Aid at Work course

Staff members who successfully complete this course will be recognised as a First-aider. 

This course will cover:

Administering First Aid to a casualty who is unconscious, wounded and bleeding, choking, suffering from shock, minor injuries and also administering CPR. Injuries to bones, muscles and joints, including suspected spinal injuries; chest injuries; burns and scalds; eye injuries; anaphylactic shock; sudden poisoning and recognise the presence of major illness and provide appropriate first aid.

Candidates must attend and complete all aspects of the course to qualify for certification.

9.30 - 16.30  

Location as selected. 

No previous first aider experience is necessary

Cost £97.50 & VAT pp 

Any cancellations must be made in writing at least 7 days before the course date or the full course fee may still be charged.  This applies to all withdrawals i.e. sickness, industrial action, medical appointments, unnotified non-attendance

Please see First Aid guidance for further information 

First Aid at Work Refresher (2 Day)

Two day refresher course

This course is for staff members who hold a current First Aid at Work certificate and need to refresh their skills. Skills must be refreshed every three years. Holders of this certificate can refresh their skills three months prior to their certificate expiry date or up to twenty eight days after their certificate expires. The full three day course must be retaken if the refresher course is not successfully completed within this time period.

A copy of the applicant’s current First-Aid certificate must be uploaded at the time of booking.   

Candidates must attend both days and successfully complete all aspects of the course to qualify for recertification.

Cancellations must be made in writing at least 7 days before the course date or the full course fee will still be charged.

9.30 - 1630

Cost £67.50 & VAT pp 

Location as selected 

Please see First Aid guidance for further information 

Understanding Expressive Language in the Classroom

AIMS:

The EA Language and Communication Service and RISE NI have come together to develop courses to support teachers in the classroom and beyond. Understanding Expressive Language in the Classroom will be delivered remotely via 4 online sessions: - What are Expressive language difficulties?

- How to identify a pupil with Expressive language difficulties.

- Building a supportive environment.

- Specific strategies for supporting Expressive language development.

Course Details:

Each session will consist of a pre-recorded online video presentation and activities to support your learning.

If you have never attended any receptive language training, it is recommended that you first complete “Understanding Receptive Language in the Classroom” in preparation for this course.

This course was originally developed for Googel Classroom. If you hear Google Classroom referenced treat it was the site you are using.

Audience:

Pre School and Primary Teachers, Classroom Assistants and SENCO's

Understanding Receptive Language in the Classroom

AIMS:

The EA Language and Communication Service and RISE NI have come together to develop courses to support teachers in the classroom and beyond. Understanding Receptive Language in the Classroom will be delivered remotely via 4 online sessions:

- What are Receptive language difficulties?

- How to identify a pupil with Receptive language difficulties.

- Building a supportive environment.

- Specific strategies for supporting Receptive language development.

Course Details:

Each session will consist of a pre-recorded online video presentation, activities to support your learning and useful links.

Audience:

Pre School and Primary Teachers, Classroom Assistants and SENCO's

KS2 - Creating a Communication and Emotion Friendly Environment in a Key Stage Two classroom

The EA Language and Communication Service and RISE NI have come together to develop a course to support teachers in the classroom and beyond. This course will help you build a Communication and Emotion Friendly Environment for your pupils in your setting.

By the end of this training we hope the following outcomes will be achieved by: 

Exploring what we as adults need to do to make our classrooms language, communication and emotion friendly.  Focusing on building strong interpersonal relationships  Looking at a few key areas: Communication Strategies, Social Communication, Emotional Communication Strategies and how to use talk to extend young people’s thinking.  Discussing resources and how to embed this into the school day! 

 

Developing Early Attention​ and Listening Skills

This professional learning course on developing early attention and listening skills, has been written and produced collaboratively by RISE NI, SENIS MLD, SEN EYIS, the School Improvement Service and the Language and Communication Service.   

Our aim is to present to you a toolkit to help you informally assess attention and listening skills, in your setting with individuals, groups or whole setting.

In this training there are five sessions: 

Introduction to early attention and listening skills Sensory Motor skills Attention skills Listening skills Attention and Listening Baselines

 

Phonological Awareness Programme

Created by the Language and Communication Service, the Phonological Awareness Programme offers a fresh approach to this fundamental area of learning. We have split each area into small chunks to allow you to learn at your own pace and delivered the course via Google Classroom so you can access the lessons and materials when and where you need them.

Alongside the lesson videos, you will have access to;
 + over 300 newly created resources and games,
 + example videos of how to use each resource,
 + a progression continuum with detailed charts, and
 + a 5 minute informal assessment tool.

Overview of Text Help Read Write Software

AIMS:

To introduce the software and explain the context of using it throughout schools in N. Ireland

To discuss the 18-month license for the software purchased by EA which will enable every child to have equal access to the latest version of this software in school and at home.

To explain the benefits of the software and discuss pupil cohorts who will find usage helpful.

To provide a live demo of the basic functions of the software and the settings that support each feature

To provide two short, timed tasks for participants to try themselves to gain experience using the software.

 Course Details:

The training is approximately a 45-minute training video which participants can view in their own time.

The link to access the course will be provided in your confirmation email.

Please ensure you enter your C2K email address correctly to receive the training details.

 

Strategies To Support Pupils With Working Memory Difficulties

AIMS:

Revise/highlight what working memory is and how it impacts on a pupil’s ability to learn while at school. To discuss the signs of working memory difficulties and how they might be recognised  both formally and informally. To highlight practical strategies which may support pupils with working memory difficulties at home and school. To signpost to resources and literature which may continue to support parents and teachers who are working to support pupils with working memory difficulties.

 

 

Course Details:

The training is approximately a 35 minute training video which participants can view in their own time.

The link to access the course will be provided in your confirmation email.

Please ensure you enter your C2K email address correctly to receive the training details.

 

An Overview of How Assistive Technology Can Help Pupils With Literacy Difficulties

AIMS:

The aim of this CPD presentation is:

To provide participants with an overview of the resources which are available through the school’s C2K network for supporting pupils experiencing literacy difficulties in the primary and post primary settings.

Course Details:

The training will consist of 2 videos: 1 x 21 minute video and 1 x 46 minute video.

The link to access the course will be provided in your confirmation email.

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly to receive the training details.

 

Strategies To Support Pupils With Spelling Difficulties

AIMS:

The aim of this CPD presentation is to:

Discuss the theory behind developing an effective approach to supporting spelling development.

Highlight practical strategies to support pupils with spelling difficulties.

 

 Course Details:

The training is approximately a 1 hour and 20 minute training video which participants can view in their own time.

The link to access the course will be provided in your confirmation email.

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly to receive the training details.

 

Strategies To Support Pupils With Comprehension Difficulties

AIMS:

The aim of this CPD presentation is to introduce participants to:

Discuss theory behind promoting comprehension as an essential reading skill

To discuss examples of best practice in supporting pupils with reading comprehension difficulties.

 

Course Details:

The training is approximately a 1 hour 25 minute training video which participants can view in their own time.

The link to access the course will be provided in your confirmation email.

Please ensure you enter your C2K email address correctly to receive the training details.

Dyslexia Friendly Post Primary Classroom

AIMS:

To discuss indicators of dyslexia at the Post Primary phase

To help teachers identify reasonable adjustments in their own classrooms and lesson delivery so that learning is more accessible and inclusive for students

To help teachers identify pre-existing in-house technology to help support learners who are underachieving in the classroom

To help teachers reflect on their own skills base and identify areas which they can develop through a dyslexia friendly audit.

 

Course Details:

The training is approximately a 55 minute training video which participants can view in their own time.

The link to access the course will be provided in your confirmation email.

Please ensure you enter your C2K email address correctly to receive the training details.

 

Dyslexia Friendly Primary Classroom

AIMS:

To highlight indicators of dyslexia across the Key stages.

To help teachers identify reasonable adjustments in your own classrooms and lesson delivery so that learning is more accessible and inclusive for all pupils

To help you identify pre-existing in-house technology to help support learners who are underachieving in the classroom

To reflect on your own skills base and identify areas that you can develop through a dyslexia friendly audit form

Course Details:

The training is approximately a 50 minute training video which participants can view in their own time.

The link to access the course will be provided in your confirmation email.

Please ensure you enter your C2K email address correctly to receive the training details.

 

Transition From P7 to Year 8

AIMS:

Discuss areas relating to transition which are difficult for pupils transitioning to post-primary school.

Highlight practical strategies to support pupils in their transition to post-primary school

 

Course Details:

The training is approximately a 30-minute training video which participants can view in their own time.

The link to access the course will be provided in your confirmation email.

Please ensure you enter your C2K email address correctly to receive the training details.

 

Nurturing Principles & Practice - An Overview

AIMS:

Participants will gain an understanding of the following: -

Context of Nurture
6 Principles of Nurture
Underpinning theory -
Neuroscience/Attachment/Trauma Aces
Nurturing approaches

Course Details:

24th September 2025 - 11am- 12pm 

28th January 2026 -  1:30pm  - 2:30pm 

29th April 2026  - 3pm  - 4pm 

Audience:

EA Staff, EOTAS, Nursery, Post -Primary, Pre-School, Primary & Special 

If you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’ and if you are a member of Education Authority staff please select  ‘Education Authority’  by scrolling to the bottom of the dropdown options.

Nurture in 5 - Emotional Health Programme

AIMS:

Provide a practical application of emotional health and wellbeing techniques within a nurturing approaches framework
Participants will gain an understanding of the following:
Emotional health and wellbeing strategies and techniques

Course Details:

1st October 2025  - 11am- 12pm 

4th February 2026  - 1:30pm  - 2;30pm 

6th May 2026  - 3pm  - 4pm 

Audience:

EA Staff, EOTAS, Nursery, Post Primary, Primary, Pre- School, Special 

If you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’ and if you are a member of Education Authority staff please select ‘Education Authority’ by scrolling to the bottom of the dropdown options

Connect & Nurture (CAN)

AIMS:

Provide an overview of the Connect & Nurture programme and its practical application of Circle. Participants will gain an understanding of the following;
To build on previous Circle Time experiences relative to trauma informed practice.
To provide staff with the opportunity to explore Connect and Nurture activities and ideas to support the development of Social, Emotional, Behavioural and Well-being (SBEW).

Course Details:

8th October 2025  - 11am  - 12pm 

18th February 2026 - 1;30pm - 2;30pm 

13th May 2026  - 3pm - 4pm 

Audience:

Pre School, Nursery,  Primary, Post Primary,  Special , Special, EA Staff 

If you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’ and if you are a member of Education Authority staff please select ‘Education Authority’ by scrolling to the bottom of the dropdown options

 

Theraplay Informed Practice

AIMS:

Provide an overview of Theraplay and the practice associated.

Participants will gain an understanding of the following;

What is Theraplay
The format of Theraplay
Explore some of the activities involved

Course Details:

15th October 2025  - 11am - 12pm 

25th Febrary 2026  - 1:30pm  - 2;30pm 

20th May 2026 - 3pm  - 4pm 

Audience:

Pre School, Nursery, Primary, Post Primary, Special, EOTAS, EA Staff 

If you are currently not attached to any school please select ‘Other’ and if you are a member of Education Authority staff please select ‘Education Authority’ by scrolling to the bottom of the dropdown options.

Nurturing Staff

Aims and Objectives Provide a practical application of emotional health and wellbeing techniques for staff. Participants will gain an understanding of the following; Emotional health and well-being

strategies and techniques

 

Course Details:

26th November 2025 - 3:15pm - 4:15pm

11th March 2026  - 3.15pm - 4.15pm 

 

Audience Pre-School, Primary, Post Primary, Nursery, Special, EOTAS, EA Staff

Children Looked After: TAP Trauma and Attachment Whole School Awareness Training

AIMS:

The training is part of a suite of trainings available through the Primary Children Looked After Advisory Service, The Attach Programme. It aims to raise awareness in the whole school staff team of the needs of children who are Looked After, by exploring the following:

Introduction to Children Looked After Importance of Relationships Impact of Trauma and Adversity Insecure Attachment Patterns Other Areas of Need Blocked Care/ Culture of Caring Relational ways of Helping/ Supporting Children Looked After Trauma and Attachment Informed Spaces

Course Details

The course consists of eight pre-recorded videos of between 17 and 42 minutes each which participants can view in their own time. Please refer to the information sheet “Preparation for Whole School Training” that has been provided to your school by your supporting Assistant Advisory Officer.

The links to access the presentations will be provided in your confirmation email.

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly to receive the training details.

It Begins with You: Take Care and Culture of Caring

Aims

We recognise just how important it is to take care of the adults who are doing the important work of looking after our children who are Looked After, and all children. These PowerPoints provide some foundational information on self-regulation and creating school communities that are ‘Caring Cultures’ to enable the adults to look after themselves well. There is no requirement to access this resource, but it will hopefully be helpful.

Course Details

This resource is divided into 3 sections, providing approx. 1.5 hours of pre-recorded, narrated material:

It Begins with You: Take Care, Part 1 – why it is important to look after ourselves, stress responses, and supporting the basics of regulation to take care of ourselves.

It Begins with You: Take Care, Part 2 – therapeutic ideas and activities for achieving a regulated state in the context of looking after ourselves.

Taking Care of Each Other – how we can create a "Culture of Caring" in our school communities and look after each other.

Please refer to the information sheet "SNC Info on Narrated PowerPoints It Begins with You - Take Care and Culture of Caring" that has been provided to your school by your supporting Assistant Advisory Officer.

The links to access the presentations will be provided in your confirmation email.

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly to receive the training details.

Children Looked After: Social Care Systems Training for Schools

AIMS:

This training is part of a suite of trainings available through the Primary Children Looked After Advisory Service. It aims to explain the legal definitions and terms in relation to Children Looked After within the Social Care System.

• Introduction

• What is a Child Looked After

• The Legal Status of Children Looked After

• Placement Types

• Inter-Agency Working

• Children Looked After Processes

• Summary - The Social Care Profile

Course Details

The course consists of 7 pre-recorded modules lasting just over 30 minutes in total which participants can view in their own time.

The links to access the presentations will be provided in a confirmation email upon registration.

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly to receive the training details.

The Engine Room - Locality South West

AIMS

To build capacity of middle leaders to lead school improvement, in order to develop high quality learning experiences and improve outcomes for pupils.

Structure / Content

This programme consists of 3 x ½ day face-to-face sessions facilitated by officers in the Post-primary and Special School Improvement Team. It supports middle leaders to make a positive difference to learners by enhancing their leadership capacity. Sessions provide opportunities for participants to engage in high quality professional dialogue with peers and apply what they learn to their leadership practice. Sessions will focus on the following key questions:

Session 1

What is my role and responsibility as a middle leader? How do I develop a compelling vision that motivates others? What does my leadership feel like to those I lead? How do I know how good we are as a team?

Session 2

How do I create a culture which fosters improvement within my team? How do I know what works? How do I plan effectively for improvement?

Session 3

How do I build an effective team? How do I manage resistance to change? How do I secure accountability?

These sessions are intended as a starting point for participants to consider exploring and developing one or more of the above themes in more detail, which they may wish to pursue with their designated School Improvement Professional.

Participants will attend all sessions and will be supported to engage in inquiry-based practice between sessions.

The Engine Room - Locality East

AIMS

To build capacity of middle leaders to lead school improvement, in order to develop high quality learning experiences and improve outcomes for pupils.

Structure / Content

This programme consists of 3 x ½ day face-to-face sessions facilitated by officers in the Post-primary and Special School Improvement Team. It supports middle leaders to make a positive difference to learners by enhancing their leadership capacity. Sessions provide opportunities for participants to engage in high quality professional dialogue with peers and apply what they learn to their leadership practice. Sessions will focus on the following key questions:

Session 1

What is my role and responsibility as a middle leader? How do I develop a compelling vision that motivates others? What does my leadership feel like to those I lead? How do I know how good we are as a team?

Session 2

How do I create a culture which fosters improvement within my team? How do I know what works? How do I plan effectively for improvement?

Session 3

How do I build an effective team? How do I manage resistance to change? How do I secure accountability?

These sessions are intended as a starting point for participants to consider exploring and developing one or more of the above themes in more detail, which they may wish to pursue with their designated School Improvement Professional.

Participants will attend all sessions and will be supported to engage in inquiry-based practice between sessions.

The Engine Room - Locality North

AIMS

To build capacity of middle leaders to lead school improvement, in order to develop high quality learning experiences and improve outcomes for pupils.

Structure / Content

This programme consists of 3 x ½ day face-to-face sessions facilitated by officers in the Post-primary and Special School Improvement Team. It supports middle leaders to make a positive difference to learners by enhancing their leadership capacity. Sessions provide opportunities for participants to engage in high quality professional dialogue with peers and apply what they learn to their leadership practice. Sessions will focus on the following key questions:

Session 1

What is my role and responsibility as a middle leader? How do I develop a compelling vision that motivates others? What does my leadership feel like to those I lead? How do I know how good we are as a team?

Session 2

How do I create a culture which fosters improvement within my team? How do I know what works? How do I plan effectively for improvement?

Session 3

How do I build an effective team? How do I manage resistance to change? How do I secure accountability?

These sessions are intended as a starting point for participants to consider exploring and developing one or more of the above themes in more detail, which they may wish to pursue with their designated School Improvement Professional.

Participants will attend all sessions and will be supported to engage in inquiry-based practice between sessions.

Self-evaluation and Planning for Improvement - Making it Meaningful, Manageable and Impactful

The aim of this programme is to deepen your understanding of school development planning as a process, underpinned by the school’s strong guiding vision and purpose, informed by rigorous self-evaluation and educational research, devised in consultation with stakeholders and in compliance with DE policy.

Participants will attend 2 x ½ day face-to-face workshops facilitated by school improvement officers, in which they will be invited to explore themes relevant to self-evaluation and planning for improvement, considering how they can be applied in the context of their school.

The core themes covered in the workshops are designed around a series of questions as follows:

1. Rationale – asks why do we need a school development plan and what needs to be in one?

2. Self-evaluation – asks how do we develop a robust evidence-base of all aspects of school life, upon which to build a manageable, meaningful school development plan which positively impacts on our pupils and their outcomes?

3. Prioritisation – asks what are the challenges and opportunities we face and what are our emerging priorities over the next 3 years?

4. Planning for Improvement – asks what are the characteristics of effective planning for improvement?

Each workshop will provide opportunities for professional dialogue and the sharing of practice, approaches and resources that can be used by schools to enhance their existing self-evaluation and improvement planning processes and structures. These sessions are intended as a starting point for participants to consider exploring and developing one or more of the above themes in more detail, which they may wish to pursue with their designated School Improvement Professional. Participants will attend both sessions and take their thinking back to share with colleagues in their schools.

Supporting High Quality Activity Based Learning in KS1

Aims

To support High Quality Activity Based Learning in KS1. To provide opportunities for self-reflection through the sharing of good practice from a range of case studies.

Programme Context

Examine and explore a range of strategies to build on the active play-based learning that has taken place in the Foundation Stage. Share a number of case studies demonstrating good practice to promote self-reflection and school improvement.

Learning in the Great Outdoors (KS1)

Aims

To promote high quality teaching and learning in the Great Outdoors. To provide opportunities for self-reflection through the sharing of good practice from a range of case studies.

Programme Content

Explore how to create engaging and enabling outdoor learning environments and experiences for Key Stage 1 pupils. Share a number of case studies demonstrating good practice to promote self-reflection and school improvement.

Enriching Teaching and Learning in the Nursery Setting Through the Use of ICT

Aims

To increase awareness of the ICT tools /platforms available to Nursery Practitioners To increase knowledge and understanding of progression and development in Digital Skills To provide opportunities for self-reflection through the sharing of good practice from case studies

Programme Content

This professional learning will lead to an increased understanding of the curriculum requirements surrounding ICT in the Nursery Setting. Practitioners will have an increased awareness of the CCEA Digital Skills in the Northern Ireland Curriculum and the ETI Empowering Improvement Framework Core Contributory Area of Digital Skills. It will showcase a range of tools/platforms which can be used to enhance teaching and learning within the Nursery setting. There will also be signposting towards professional learning opportunities to support staff skills development. A number of case studies demonstrating good practice within the area of ICT will be shared to promote self-reflection and school improvement.

Physical Development and Movement in the Nursery Setting

Aims

To increase knowledge and understanding of the curriculum requirements of Physical Development and Movement. To support the development of children's physical skills through indoor and outdoor play. To provide opportunities for self-reflection through the sharing of good practice from case studies.

Programme Content

This professional learning will lead to increased understanding of the curriculum requirements surrounding Physical Development and Movement in the Nursery Setting. Practitioners will gain an increased awareness of supporting pupils' physical skills development, leading to improved health and well-being and readiness for learning. Practitioners will be signposted to relevant research and resources to enable them to enhance provision. A number of case studies demonstrating good practice within the area of Physical Development and Movement will be shared to promote self-reflection and school improvement.

School Governance - Registration for all training

Training for 2025/26 opens on 1 August 2025.

Link to current programme https://www.eani.org.uk/school-governors/governor-training-resources

Performance Review and Staff Development (Principal PRSD)

This webinar is for Governor Reviewers, who are responsible for reviewing the principals PRSD, or any other governors interested in this process. 

It is envisaged that this webinar will be repeated in September 2025. A PRSD PowerPoint presentation outlying the principals PRSD process will also be available on the Governors Training Portal for those who prefer individual, online learning.

It will be held online on Teams and a link is sent prior to the course to the email you have registered with.

Please check the junk email folder prior to the course.

Supporting Learning in a Specialist Provision - Primary

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST ONLY 

Training Aim:

This Professional Learning & Development Programme aims to provide an opportunity for Primary Specialist Provision staff to explore how to plan for delivering the NI Curriculum, to effectively meet the needs of pupils within their setting

Course Structure/Content:

This session has been specifically developed to support the following -
1. Explore the rationale for a teaching, learning and assessment model using 3 IEP cycles,
2. Outline tools for identifying pupil needs,
3. Highlight possible models of curriculum delivery,
4. Suggest methods of monitoring and evaluating learning,
5. Signpost to relevant CCEA documentation.

Time: 3.00pm - 4.00pm

Suggested Audience:

Primary Specialist Provision Teachers, School Leadership Team, Learning Support Coordintors (SENCo)

Course Details: 

MS Teams

Setting Up a Specialist Provision - Early Years Classroom

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST ONLY 

Training Aim:

This Professional Learning & Development Programme aims to provide staff from Specialist Provisions with guidance on how to set up an Early Years Specialist Provision classroom and support them to meet the needs of each individual pupil.

Course Structure/Content:

This session outlines three important areas for Specialist Provsion staff to consider when setting up their classroom.

1. Physical Structure 
2. Visual Schedules 
3. Activity Systems 

Each of these areas are covered in detail with real-life examples. 

SSST staff will model their use, followed by supporting discussion about how they can be adapted to suit your own individual classroom environment. 

Course Details:

Location: EA Centres

Length: 9.30am - 3.30pm

Suggested Audience:

Early Years Specialist Provision Staff, Foundation Stage Specialist Provision Staff, School Leadership Team, Learning Support Coordinators (SENCos)

An Overview of Baselining and Tracking in a Specialist Provision - Early Years/Primary

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST ONLY

Training Aim:

This Professional Learning & Development Programme aims to  establish the purpose and process of baselining pupils, with a focus on identifying and overviewing appropriate baselining tools for each stage. 

This session will outline the Baseline and Tracking support available from the SSST. 

Course Structure/Content:

This session has been specifically structured to support the following -

1. The purpose of Baselining - 
• Why we need to baseline our pupils. 
• How baseline assessments fit into planning and how they impact practice.         

2. An overview of resources - A summary of some available baselining resources, outlining the cost, the provider, and an overview of how to use each resource. 

3. Summary of support - Outlining how SSST can support settings with baselining and tracking. 

Course Details:

MS Teams

Time: 2.30pm -4.00pm

Suggested Audience:

Early Years & Primary Specialist Provision Staff, School Leadership Team, Learning Support Coordinators (SENCo)

Setting up a Specialist Provision - Primary Classroom

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST ONLY

Training Aim:

This Professional Learning & Development Programme aims to provide staff from Specialist Provisions  with guidance on how to set up an Primary Specialist Provision classroom and support them to meet the needs of each individual pupil.

Course Structure/Content:

This session outlines three important areas for Specialist Provsion staff to consider when setting up their classroom.

1. Physical Structure.
2. Visual Schedules. 
3. Activity Systems. 

Each of these areas are covered in detail with real-life examples. 

SSST staff will model their use, followed by supporting discussion about how they can be adapted to suit your own individual classroom environment. 

Course Details:

EA Centres

Length: 9.30am -3.30pm

Targeted Audience:

Primary Specialist Provision Staff, School Leadership, Learning Support Coordinators (SENCos)

Setting up a Specialist Provision - Post Primary Classroom

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST ONLY

Training Aim:

This Professional Learning & Development Programme aims to provide staff from Specialist Provisions  with guidance on how to set up an Post Primary Specialist Provision classroom and support them to meet the needs of each individual pupil.

Approach:
Course participants will learn through a delivered presentation, interactive discussions, and experiencing a simulated learning environment. Electronic resources will be available on completion of training.
 
Course Structure/Content:

This session outlines three important areas for Specialist Provsion staff to consider when setting up their classroom.

1.  Physical Structure. 
2. Visual Timetables. 
3. Activity Systems. 

Each of these areas are covered in detail with real-life examples. 

SSST staff will model their use, followed by supporting discussion about how they can be adapted to suit your own individual classroom environment. 

Course Details:

Location: EA Centres

Time: 9.30am -3.30pm

Suggested Audience:

Post Primary Specialist Provision Staff, School Leadership Team, Learning Support Coordinators (SENCos)

An Overview of Quest and Q skills CCEA Assessment Framework

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST ONLY

Training Aim:

This Professional Learning & Development Information Session aims to provide an overview of Quest and Q-Skills as a tool to assess pupils in a Specialist Provision  with a focus on using CCEA Assessment Frameworks within your classroom. 

Course Structure/Content:

This session has been specifically structured to support the following:     

1. Understand how to access CCEA Resources for SEN.

2. Understand the progression of the assessment continuum.

3. Explore the CCEA developmental stages, Quest, Q Skills & SEN Framework for Thinking Skills & Personal Capabilities.

4. Learn about CCEA work in development.

5. Learn how to access CCEA Curriculum Resources & Guidance.

Course Time:

3.00pm - 4.00pm

Suggested Audience: 

Early Years & Primary Specialist Provision Staff, Senior Leadership Team, Learning Support Coordinators (SENCo)

Course Details:

MS Teams

Physical Structure in a Specialist Provision - Early Years

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST ONLY

Training Aim:

This Professional Learning & Development Programme aims to provide an opportunity for Specialist Provision staff to explore how to implement Physical Structure within their Early Years classroom to better support the individual needs of their pupils. 

Course Structure/Content:

This session has been specifically structured to support the following -   

1. Understand the importance of structuring an Early Years Specialist Provision classroom.   
2. Explore how the physical structure can be adapted.                                                         
3. Identify ways to label and organise resources and areas.                   
4. Explore ways to reduce distractibility to support pupil learning.

Course Details:

MS Teams

Time: 3.00pm - 3.45 pm

Suggested Audience:

Early Years Specialist Provision Staff, Foundation Stage Specialist Provision Staff, School Leadership Team, Learning Support Coordinators (SENCos)

Visual Schedules in a Specialist Provision - Early Years

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST ONLY

Training Aim:

This Professional Learning & Development Programme aims to provide an opportunity for Specialist Provision staff to explore how to implement  Visual Schedules within their Early Years classroom to better support the individual needs of their pupils. 

Course Structure/Content:

This session has been specifically structured to support the following:

1. To develop an understanding of visual schedules and the benefit for pupils.

2. How to develop a pupil individual schedule.

3. Develop an understanding of the range and progression of schedules that may be required to meet individual pupil needs.

Course Details:

MS Teams

Length: 3.00pm - 3.45 pm

Targeted Audience:

Early Years Specialist Provision Staff, Foundation Stage Specialist Provision Staff, School Leadership Team, Learning Support Coordinators

SEND Implementation and SENCo Support

This learning area contains modules of SEND training resources and guidance materials for SENCos/Learning Support Coordinators, senior leaders, teaching and non-teaching staff in schools and educational settings. It replaces the old SEND Website which will no longer be accessible. Click on the ‘Documents’ link on the menu on the right of the Dashboard page to find the following topic areas:

Graduated Response (WEP and SpEP) Leadership and Management Parent and Carer Leaflets Personal Learning Plan (PLP) Policies Provision Mapping SEN and Medical Categories SEND Podcasts School Development Day Packs Views of the Child

Some of these resources are also available on the public-facing EANI SEND Website on the new SENCo Support page https://send.eani.org.uk/sencosupport

AIMS:

 

To provide an understanding of changes to the SEN Framework To share updates on changes to legislation, regulations and the draft Code of Practice To host resources and materials to support staff who are working with children and young people with SEN in your school or setting.

 

TIME/DATE:

This learning area is open year-round.

Parents Training - Helping Your Child Understand and Manage Their Emotions

AIMS:

To explore ways to help your child understand and express their emotions. To explore ways to promote emotional wellbeing at home To explore ways to help your child calm down

 

COURSE DETAILS:

06 September 2023- 31 August 2025

Training will last around 1 Hour and​ Training can be viewed any time suitable to the participant within the date periods

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly to receive training details within your confirmation email.

Parents Training - Helping with Early Communication Skills

AIMS:

To become more aware of how children can communicate. To help respond to all attempts at communication. To provide a range of ideas and strategies to help develop communication skills.

Course Details:

This course will run from 06 September 2023 to 31 August 2025.

Duration: Approx 35 mins

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly to receive training details.

Parents Training -Supporting Your Child’s Toileting Needs

AIMS:

To learn more about toilet training To explore ways to support your child’s toileting needs

COURSE DETAILS:

06 September 2023 - 31 August 2025

Training will last around 1 Hour and​ Training can be viewed any time suitable to the participant within the date periods

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly to receive training details within your confirmation email.

Parents Training -Helping Your Child With Language Development

AIMS:

To Know what Speech, Language and Communication ( SLC) Needs are Know how to help your child with Speech, Language and Communication Needs

 

COURSE DETAILS:

06 September 2023 - 31 August 2025

Training will last around 1 Hour and​ Training can be viewed any time suitable to the participant within the date periods

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly to receive training details within your confirmation email.

Awareness and Management of toileting needs for children with SEN

AIMS:

To provide an awareness of the typical development of bladder and bowel control and the implications for supporting children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) To develop an understanding of toileting readiness and to consider strategies for advance preparation to support children with SEN To explore practical strategies for the management of toileting needs for children with SEN 

 

COURSE DETAILS:

05 September 2023 - 31 August 2025

Audience:

Pre School Staff, Classroom Assistants and SENCOs

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly 

Top Techniques: Meeting the Needs of Children in Early Years with Speech, Language and Communication Needs

AIMS:

To consider what speech, language and communication needs are To reflect upon the importance of speech, language and communication in a child’s overall development and learning To raise awareness of the typical development and the needs of the Early Years child To share strategies to support speech, language and communication within the Early Years environment

 

COURSE DETAILS:

06 September 2023 -  31 August 2025

Audience:

Pre School Staff, Classroom Assistants and SENCOs

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly 

Helping Children Understand and Manage Their Emotions

AIMS:

To explore strategies to help promote emotional literacy To explore structure, routine and positive behaviour strategies To provide a range of emotional regulation strategies To consider how we can help to de-escalate and manage challenging situations

 

COURSE DETAILS:

06 September 2023 - 31 August 2025

Audience:

Pre School Staff, Classroom Assistants and SENCOs

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly 

Supporting the Development of Early Communication Skills

AIMS:

To become more aware of how children can communicate. To help respond to all attempts at communication. To provide a range of ideas and strategies to help develop communication skills.

Course Details:

This course will run from 06 September 2023 to 31 August 2025.

Duration: Approx 45 Mins

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly to receive training details.

An Overview of the Inclusion of Young People with Down Syndrome in Post Primary Mainstream Settings

Aims:

To highlight some of the benefits of inclusion for young people with Down syndrome in post primary mainstream settings. To provide an overview of supporting inclusion for young people with down syndrome in post primary mainstream settings. To highlight some of the characteristic difficulties young people with down syndrome have in relation to learning. To provide practical classroom strategies that can be implemented in order to overcome barriers to learning for young people with Down syndrome.

Course Details:

This is an online training video which participants can view in their own time.

The link to access the course will be provided in your confirmation email.

Early Years Literacy for Children with Down Syndrome

AIMS:

To provide strategies to support language development in children with Down syndrome in the Early Years; To provide an understanding of the specific challenges children with Down syndrome face in learning to read; To provide strategies to begin to overcome these specific challenges; To introduce the Match/Select/Name approach to reading.

Course Details:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year.

Early Years Numeracy for Children with Down Syndrome

AIMS:

To provide an overview of the difficulties children with Down syndrome may face in the development of numeracy skills. To provide classroom strategies that may help develop early numeracy skills through play. To introduce ways that multi-sensory maths resources can be used to support children with Down syndrome in the preschool setting.

Course Details:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year.

Overview of the Effective Inclusion of Pupils with Down Syndrome

AIMS:

To provide an overview of the developmental profile of children and young people with Down syndrome To provide an overview of the learning profile of children with Down Syndrome To highlight ways of adapting good practice regarding inclusion. To provide teaching and learning strategies to support children with Down Syndrome within primary educational settings

Course Details:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year.

Promoting Positive Behaviour in Children with Down Syndrome

AIMS:

To provide an overview of factors which impact behaviour and functions of challenging behaviour. To provide an overview of the behavioural traits/challenges of children with Down Syndrome. To provide an understanding of how to analyse and address behaviour using an ABC (Antecedent, Behaviour, Consequence) approach. To provide evidence based strategies to implement within a school setting to promote positive behaviour for children with Down Syndrome.

Course Details:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year.

Sensory Integration for Children with Down Syndrome

AIMS:

To provide an overview of Sensory Integration/Processing. To provide an overview of how Sensory Integration/Processing affects children with Down Syndrome and how this might present within a school setting. To provide an understanding of specific sensory integration difficulties and the associated challenges. To provide a range of evidence based strategies that can be implemented to help reduce the impact of sensory processing difficulties for children with Down Syndrome.

Course Details:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year.

Supporting Communication Difficulties In Children With Down Syndrome

AIMS:

To provide an overview of characteristic difficulties affecting language development in children with Down Syndrome. To explore the impact these characteristic difficulties have on communication. To provide evidence based strategies to implement within a school/early years setting to support language and communication difficulties in children with Down Syndrome. To provide an overview of signing systems and to explore the benefits of signing with children with Down Syndrome.

Course Details:

This course will be available to access online throughout the school year.

Language and Communication for Pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties

Aims: 

A session tailored to your individual setting needs with a focus on highlighting how speech and language develops and how it can be impacted by a diagnosis of severe learning difficulties.

Course Content:

This session has been specifically developed to support the following -

Cover a range of strategies to support children with language and communication difficulties, Explain what speech and language difficulties are, and how they may present in children with SLD, Provide setting staff with possible strategies and interventions which can help to support attention and listening. Course Duration: A 40 Minute Session Target Audience All staff supporting pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties Location: Delivered by SENIS SLD Service