Can foster carer training be completed online?

Online learning can form part of foster carer training, but it does not always replace every face-to-face element. The fostering service arranging your assessment will explain which modules may be completed remotely and whether any sessions, practical activities or assessments must take place in person.

Online foster carer training commonly covers the knowledge needed to understand the role and the needs of children in care. Depending on the course, this may include:

• the fostering process, roles and responsibilities;
• safeguarding and recognising signs of abuse or neglect;
• child development and the effects of trauma, loss and separation;
• supporting children’s identity, relationships and emotional wellbeing;
• safe caring, confidentiality and recording information;
• working with social workers, schools, families and other professionals; and
• preparing for the practical demands of fostering.

Some online courses are self-directed, allowing you to work through reading, videos, activities and quizzes independently. Other training is delivered live through video conferencing, with a trainer leading discussions and exercises. A programme may combine both approaches, so completing an online module does not necessarily mean learning without interaction or tutor support.

Before approval, training is normally linked to your assessment as a prospective foster carer. You may be expected to attend sessions, take part in discussions, complete activities and show that you understand how the learning applies to caring for a child. Online attendance alone is unlikely to be the only consideration: the fostering service also needs to understand your skills, experience, judgement and readiness to foster.

Not every subject is equally suited to remote delivery. Topics that involve practising a skill, observing participation or working closely with other applicants may be delivered face to face. This can include practical elements of training, depending on the course and the service’s requirements. If a module cannot be completed online, the fostering service should tell you what alternative arrangement is expected.

Online training usually requires a suitable device, a reliable internet connection and a private place where confidential discussions cannot be overheard. You may also need to use a camera, microphone or learning platform. If you have difficulty accessing technology, ask the fostering service what support or alternative arrangements are available before the course begins.

Training should also take account of different learning needs. Tell the fostering service about any adjustments that would help you participate, such as accessible materials, additional explanation, breaks or a different way of completing an activity. The aim is to make the learning accessible while still covering the knowledge and skills required for fostering.

Online training can be useful for fitting learning around existing responsibilities and revisiting course materials when permitted. However, you should check the attendance rules carefully. Some programmes require active participation rather than simply logging in, and missed sessions or incomplete work may need to be rearranged or finished before your assessment can progress.

At Become A Foster Family, we explain how training is delivered as part of the fostering journey and help applicants understand what is expected. Our teams provide guidance and ongoing support throughout the process, including where a combination of online and in-person learning is required.

The most useful questions to ask before enrolling are:

• Which parts of the training are self-directed, live online or face to face?
• Are there practical activities that must be completed in person?
• How will participation and completion be recorded?
• What happens if you cannot attend an online session or need more time?
• What equipment and internet access are required?
• What adjustments are available for your learning needs?

In short, online foster carer training is often possible for substantial parts of the preparation, but the complete requirement depends on the fostering service, the subject being taught and how your participation must be assessed. Ask for the training plan early so you know which elements can be completed remotely and which require attendance elsewhere.