Can working foster carers complete training online?

Online foster carer training can include self-directed learning, live virtual sessions and digital activities completed through an approved learning platform. The exact balance depends on the training plan and the learning outcomes that need to be demonstrated.

There are two main ways online training may be delivered:

• Self-directed learning: you work through reading, videos, presentations, quizzes or written activities independently. This can make it easier to organise learning around employment and other commitments.
• Live online sessions: you join a scheduled video session with a trainer and, where appropriate, other applicants. These sessions allow you to ask questions, discuss scenarios and take part in group exercises.

Online learning should still be interactive and relevant to fostering. It may cover subjects such as safeguarding, child development, attachment, trauma, managing behaviour, safer caring, working with families and the responsibilities of foster carers. You may be asked to consider case studies, reflect on your own experiences or complete activities that show how you would respond to a situation.

Some parts of preparation may be better delivered in person. For example, a provider may need to observe group participation, facilitate detailed discussions or use practical exercises that work more effectively face to face. Where this applies, the training provider should explain the arrangement clearly so you know which sessions require attendance at a venue and which can be completed remotely.

Online training does not remove the need to take part fully. You will normally be expected to attend any live sessions, complete assigned activities and contribute to discussions. Training is intended to help you understand the responsibilities involved in fostering and assess how the role may fit with your household, work and existing commitments. Simply logging into an online course may not be enough if the learning requires participation or evidence of understanding.

Before starting, ask the fostering service how the online element is organised. Useful questions include:

• Which parts are live and which can be completed independently?
• Are sessions recorded, or must you attend at the scheduled time?
• How will questions be answered between sessions?
• Will you receive written materials or tasks to complete?
• Which elements, if any, must be completed in person?
• How will attendance and completion be recorded?
• What happens if work commitments prevent you from attending a particular session?

You will need a suitable device, a reliable internet connection and a private place where you can take part in conversations about sensitive subjects. A camera and microphone may be required for live sessions. It is also important to check whether you can use the learning platform confidently and whether support is available if you have technical or accessibility requirements.

Privacy matters during online training. Foster care discussions can involve safeguarding information and personal experiences, so avoid joining from a public place or allowing other people to overhear the session. Follow the provider’s instructions about passwords, documents, recording and the use of cameras. Do not record or share training content unless you have been given permission.

For working applicants, online delivery can reduce unnecessary travel and make independent study easier to plan around employment. It does not, however, mean that every session can be moved to a time of your choice. Live learning may still have a fixed schedule, and activities may need to be completed by an agreed date. Discuss your working pattern at the outset so the training plan reflects the commitments you need to manage.

If you have already completed relevant learning or have professional experience, tell the fostering service before the course begins. The service can explain whether that experience is relevant to the current requirements and whether any part of the learning needs to be completed again. Online access does not automatically replace the provider’s process for checking your knowledge, suitability and readiness to foster.

Become a Foster Family can explain how training is structured for applicants across the West Midlands, including Birmingham, Worcestershire, Staffordshire, Dudley, Sandwell, Herefordshire, Telford, Wolverhampton, Shropshire, Walsall, Warwickshire, Stoke, Solihull, Coventry and Gloucestershire. With offices in Droitwich and Stoke and staff located across the region, local support can be discussed as part of your preparation.