What training is required before becoming a foster carer?

Foster carers must complete preparation training before approval and continue developing their skills after approval. The training is not a single qualification or examination; it is part of the assessment process and helps determine whether applicants understand the responsibilities of fostering, can apply what they have learned, and are ready to provide consistent care.

What happens before approval? Prospective foster carers are invited to attend an approved preparation course arranged by their fostering service. The course normally combines teaching, discussion, practical exercises and opportunities to ask questions. It may be delivered in person, online or through a mixture of both, depending on the provider and local arrangements.

Applicants are expected to take part actively rather than simply attend. Trainers may use scenarios based on everyday fostering situations, such as responding to a child who is distressed, communicating with professionals, maintaining appropriate boundaries or making decisions within agreed guidance. This helps applicants consider how they would respond in practice and identify areas where they need more information.

The preparation course also gives applicants a clearer understanding of the role. This can include the importance of working as part of a professional network, respecting a child’s identity and history, contributing to plans and reviews, and recognising when to seek advice. Fostering affects the whole household, so discussions may also consider how relatives, partners and children in the home will be involved and supported.

Is the training assessed? There is usually no pass-or-fail examination. However, participation and understanding form part of the wider fostering assessment. The assessing social worker may discuss what applicants have learned, how they would handle example situations and whether their expectations are realistic.

Applicants should be prepared to reflect honestly. Training may highlight aspects of fostering that are more demanding than expected, including the need for careful communication, accurate information-sharing, cooperation with professionals and patience when progress is not straightforward. Raising concerns or asking for clarification is a positive part of preparation; it does not mean an applicant is unsuitable.

Training attendance and learning may be recorded in the assessment information submitted to the fostering panel or decision-maker. If further preparation is needed, the fostering service may recommend additional reading, another discussion or extra training before a final decision is made. The precise process varies between fostering services.

What training is needed after approval? Approval is not the end of learning. Foster carers normally complete ongoing training and development throughout their fostering career. This may include induction activities, refresher learning, supervision-related development and courses linked to the particular needs of a child placed with them.

Additional learning could be recommended where a placement involves circumstances that require specialist understanding. Examples might include caring for a child with health needs, supporting a young person approaching adulthood, helping a child affected by exploitation, or working with communication and educational needs. The relevant training should be discussed with the supervising social worker and completed in line with the fostering service’s expectations.

How should applicants prepare?

• Read the information provided by the fostering service before attending sessions.
• Keep a note of questions about the role, household arrangements and the assessment process.
• Think about how you respond to stress, disagreement and unexpected changes.
• Discuss the commitment openly with everyone in the household.
• Be ready to consider feedback and explain how your views develop during training.

Training is one part of the overall application. Applicants will also need to complete the required checks, health information, references, interviews and assessment work. The fostering service should explain which training is compulsory, how it will be delivered, what evidence of participation is needed and what further learning will be expected after approval.

For an accurate timetable and details of the preparation course, ask the fostering team handling your enquiry. Requirements can vary according to the fostering service and the type of fostering being considered, so it is important to follow the guidance provided for your application rather than rely on a general course description.