Induction Standards

Following extensive stakeholder consultations early in 2006, CWDC published a set of Induction Standards, together with supporting materials for those working with children, young people and families.

These standards set out what new workers should know, understand and be able to do within six months of starting work.

We are particularly pleased to have been able to reflect what children and young people have told us is most important to them about the people who work with them.

CWDC Training & Development Standards for Foster Carers

The Induction Standards were then further developed specifically for new workers in the foster care field becoming the Training & Development Standards for Foster Carers.

Induction Standards field testing

In 2007-08 CWDC piloted a roll-out of the Induction Standards across four additional occupations in the children's workforce:

• Early Years
• Connexions Personal Advisers
  
• Learning Mentors
• Educational Welfare Officers.

The Integrated Working and Social Care teams also worked together to support field testing of the CWDC Training, Support and Development Standards for Foster Carers. Fifteen sites took part in the field testing, with three sites testing an integrated approach to Induction across more than one occupational area.

The summary report from the field testing is available to download by clicking on the links below:

CWDC Induction Standards Field Testing Summary Report

Plans for 08-09

The Induction Standards pilot reported back in March 2008 and CWDC are now looking at becoming the first, and currently only, Sector Skill Council to have a an integrated approach to induction across its footprint.

We are also looking at ways to ensure that these Standards are compatible with the Integrated Qualifications Framework (IQF), ensuring they are relevant and fit for purpose with other parts of the children's workforce.

All of our induction materials, including workbooks and training materials are currently being reviewed as a result of the field testing project. An updated version of the workbook will appear on this website in December 2008, and further training and guidance materials will follow during the autumn. If you require a back issue of one of our induction publications e.g workbooks or guidance please email us.