How are foster carer training sessions delivered?

Foster carer training sessions are delivered through an online learning format, combining planned teaching with discussion, questions and practical preparation for fostering. You take part remotely rather than attending a classroom, while still engaging with the subjects and activities required during the pre-approval process.

The training is organised around the knowledge and skills needed by prospective foster carers. Sessions can include explanations from a trainer, guided discussions, scenarios based on situations children in care may experience, and opportunities to consider how you would respond as a foster carer. This approach helps connect the information to the decisions and responsibilities involved in day-to-day fostering.

What to expect during a session

• Join the scheduled online session using the details provided during your application.
• Work through the planned subject matter with an experienced trainer.
• Take part in questions, discussion and activities rather than only reading information independently.
• Consider how the learning applies to your household, circumstances and approach to caring for children.
• Raise anything you do not understand so it can be explained before you move on in the assessment process.

Online delivery does not mean that training is simply a collection of documents to read. Active participation is important because fostering involves judgement, communication and reflection. Trainers may ask you to discuss a scenario, share your views or think through how a child’s needs could affect family life. There is no expectation that you will already know everything; the purpose of the sessions is to build your understanding before approval.

You will need a suitable device, an internet connection and a private space where you can concentrate and contribute appropriately. It is also sensible to check your audio and camera before joining, keep any information supplied for the session to hand, and make notes of questions you want to discuss. If more than one person in your household is required to complete the training, each person should take part as advised, since fostering affects the whole household.

Online training can be particularly useful when you are balancing work, family responsibilities or other commitments, because it removes the need to travel to a training venue. However, you should still treat each session as a formal part of your fostering application. Set aside enough time to participate fully, avoid avoidable interruptions and complete any follow-up tasks requested by the trainer.

Your involvement may be considered alongside the wider information gathered during assessment. This can include your understanding of fostering, your ability to reflect on feedback, and how you apply learning to realistic situations. Training is not intended to test whether you have previous experience of caring for children; it helps identify areas where you may need further explanation or preparation before approval.

If you have accessibility requirements, technical concerns or a difficulty that could affect your participation, discuss this with the fostering team. They can explain how the online arrangements work and identify appropriate support or practical adjustments where possible. The important point is that you understand the material, can take part in the learning process and are able to ask for clarification when needed.