Courses
Mandatory training and other courses
Visit Bolton's Learning and Development - Working with Children webpage for access to First Aid, Safeguarding, Childminder, and Health and Safety courses.
Free Bolton Mental Health Training Programme 2026-2027
Access business development support and training: GM Business Growth Hub.
Join one of the free 45 min BBC CBeebies Champion Training session.
Find Your Course
Good Autism Practice | 16th June 2026 | 9:30am - 2:00pm
16-06-2026
Delivered by Green Fold Special School, in this course you will: Focus on the importance of getting to know children and how their autism affects them, and look at examples of distressed behaviours and how these can be supported through a range of strategies, approaches, and reasonable adjustments. For practitioners working in wraparound and holiday childcare.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 17th June 2026 | 9:30am - 12:00noon
17-06-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 17th June 2026 | 1:30pm - 4:00pm
17-06-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 17th June 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm
17-06-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
SENCO Network | 18th June 2026 | 3:45pm - 5:45pm
18-06-2026
This termly face to face network event offers Early Years SENCOs the opportunity to come together, engage in CPD and share experiences, challenges and solutions. The session will focus on speech and language and attention autism.
SENCO Network | 18th June 2026 | 6:00pm - 8:00pm
18-06-2026
This termly face to face network event offers Early Years SENCOs the opportunity to come together, engage in CPD and share experiences, challenges and solutions. The session will focus on speech and language and attention autism.
Workshop for Professionals: Engaging Dads in the Perinatal Period (Conception - 2 years) | 22 June 2026 | 10:30am - 12:00pm | Tonge Family Hub
22-06-2026
A face to face workshop hosted by: Dad Matters (Home-Start Host). For anyone working with families during the perinatal period (conception to 2 years old).
Foundational ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and Trauma Awareness Training | 24th June 2026 | 1:30pm - 4:30pm
24-06-2026
Please book directly with the Learning and Development Service.
Annual Communication Champion Workshop | 1st July 2026 | 10:30am - 12:00noon
01-07-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! The workshop is an opportunity for new and experienced Communication Champions to come together, reflect on communication and language in your setting, school or service and share experiences, news and updates. This annual workshop is in addition to the termly Communication and Language updates at the Early Years and Childcare Briefing.
Annual Communication Champion Workshop | 1st July 2026 | 4:15pm - 5:45pm
01-07-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! The workshop is an opportunity for new and experienced Communication Champions to come together, reflect on communication and language in your setting, school or service and share experiences, news and updates. This annual workshop is in addition to the termly Communication and Language updates at the Early Years and Childcare Briefing.
Annual Communication Champion Workshop | 1st July 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm
01-07-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! The workshop is an opportunity for new and experienced Communication Champions to come together, reflect on communication and language in your setting, school or service and share experiences, news and updates. This annual workshop is in addition to the termly Communication and Language updates at the Early Years and Childcare Briefing.
Raising Early Achievement in Literacy - Making it REAL in Bolton | 2 Day Training - 8th and 9th July 2026 (plus 3 network events) | 9:30am to 4:00pm
08-07-2026
Making it REAL is an evidence-based approach to improve outcomes for young children based on the original REAL study of Cathy Nutbrown and Peter Hannon at the University of Sheffield.
Childminders Safeguarding Network | 8th July 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm
08-07-2026
For childminders only. This annual network event allows childminders the opportunity to keep up to date with safeguarding news, access CPD opportunities and to network with others in Bolton. You will hear from Bolton Safeguarding Children Partnership and LADO colleagues.
Department for Education Early Years Child Development Training | Complete Online Anytime
09-07-2026
Free DfE online training covering child and brain development, PSED and Communication and Language. Training accessed via https://child-development-training.education.gov.uk/
Multilingual Training (CYP) | YouTube - Watch Now (25m)
09-07-2026
Watch this free webinar for early years on YouTube. Presented by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA). The presentation is 25 minutes long and will help to provide clarification on terminology, will support development of your confidence and understanding of the evidence base around multilingualism, and dispel some of the commonly held myths around multilingualism and learning multiple languages. As this webinar is available via YouTube, you can watch at your convenience.
Our Kids, Their Screens, The Evidence | YouTube - Watch Now (1h 30m)
09-07-2026
Watch this free, local government webinar (on YouTube), produced by 'Health Professionals for Safer Screens'. Hear the latest evidence and research. Know how screens are impacting on our children’s development and find out what can we do in early years.
Foundational ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and Trauma Awareness Training | 14th July 2026 | 1:30pm - 4:30pm
14-07-2026
Please book directly with the Learning and Development Service.
Level 2 Award: Safe Handling and Administration of Medications for Children, Including Ofsted Requirements | 23 July 2026 | 9:30am - 4:00pm
23-07-2026
Please book directly with the Learning and Development Service.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 20th August 2026 | 9:30am - 12:00noon
20-08-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 20th August 2026 | 1:30pm - 4:00pm
20-08-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 20th August 2026 | 6:15pm - 8:45pm
20-08-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 16th September 2026 | 9:30am - 12:00noon
16-09-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 16th September 2026 | 1:30pm - 4:00pm
16-09-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 16th September 2026 | 6:15pm - 8:45pm
16-09-2026
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Foundational ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and Trauma Awareness Training | 17th September 2026 | 1:30pm - 4:30pm
17-09-2026
Please book directly with the Learning and Development Service.
New GMCA WellComm Training | 18th September and 2nd October 2026 | 9:30am - 12:30pm | Harvey Best Start Family Hub
18-09-2026
This New Gold Standard 'GMCA WellComm Training' provides participants with a deeper level of knowledge and the skills to know how to effectively use both the WellComm screen and the interventions. Join us for 2 half-day sessions as we focus on the use of the WellComm as a screening tool and undertake a deep dive into the interventions, results monitoring, and how we review progress.
ELKLAN 3-5s | Weekly from Tuesday 22nd September 2026 (10 Weeks) | 9:30am - 12:00pm | Great Lever Family Hub
22-09-2026
ELKLAN 3-5s is a 10-week accredited course for EYPs working with children aged 3-5 years and their families. The course is externally accredited. Discover ELKLAN teaching methods and activities designed to support and engage children. Part-funded for settings and schools.
Network Event for those Working with 2 Year-olds | 24th September 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm
24-09-2026
As part of our shared ambition to 'narrow the gap' in Bolton, focusing on the most vulnerable children, we are working with providers of early education places to continue the 2-year-old network events on a biannual basis. Sessions will provide a forum for colleagues to focus on pedagogy, practice, and will allow for discussions on specific topics.
Network Event for those Working with 2 Year-olds | 25th September 2026 | 9:30am - 11:30am
25-09-2026
As part of our shared ambition to 'narrow the gap' in Bolton, focusing on the most vulnerable children, we are working with providers of early education places to continue the 2-year-old network events on a biannual basis. Sessions will provide a forum for colleagues to focus on pedagogy, practice, and will allow for discussions on specific topics.
Empowering Parents and Educators to Keep Children Safe in the Digital World | Online Via Zoom | 25th September 2026 | 10:00am - 12:30pm
25-09-2026
Multiple Session Dates and Times. Sessions provided by Fortalice for early years practitioners in Bolton. Book directly with Fortalice. See description for details.
Schools EYFS Network Briefing | 14th October 2026 | 9:00am - 11:30am
14-10-2026
This in person briefing for Early Years Leads in Schools will include national and local news and updates from Start Well and partner services; it will help support professional development and leadership of the EYFS. Venue: Harvey Family Hub, Shaw Street, Bolton BL3 6HU
Daycare EYFS Network Briefing | 14th October 2026 | 12:30pm - 3:00pm
14-10-2026
This facilitated network event allows Managers and Room Leaders in settings the opportunity to review key topics at opportune points throughout the academic year, with time in between for self-reflection. The main focus of this session will be "The Best Start in Life". Venue: Harvey Family Hub, Shaw Street, Bolton BL3 6HU
Childminders EYFS Network Briefing | 14th October 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm
14-10-2026
Keeping you up to date on all the latest developments in the Early Years Foundation Stage to support your professional development. This briefing will take place at Harvey Family Hub.
Level 2 Award: Safe Handling and Administration of Medications for Children, Including Ofsted Requirements | 16 October 2026 | 9:30am - 4:00pm
16-10-2026
Please book directly with the Learning and Development Service.
Out of School Club (OOSC) EYFS Network Briefing | 21st October 2026 | 10:00am - 12:00pm | Online
21-10-2026
An opportunity for registered Out of School Providers in Bolton to meet their peers and discuss contemporary issues affecting OOSC's.
New GMCA WellComm Training | 9th November and 23rd November 2026 | 1:00pm - 4:00pm | Harvey Best Start Family Hub
09-11-2026
This New Gold Standard 'GMCA WellComm Training' provides participants with a deeper level of knowledge and the skills to know how to effectively use both the WellComm screen and the interventions. Join us for 2 half-day sessions as we focus on the use of the WellComm as a screening tool and undertake a deep dive into the interventions, results monitoring, and how we review progress.
Early Years and Childcare Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL) Network Meeting | 11th November 2026 | 9:15am - 11:45am
11-11-2026
For DSLs (and Deputy DSLs) in PVI settings only. This termly network event allows DSLs the opportunity to keep up to date with safeguarding news, access CPD opportunities and to network with other DSLs in Bolton. You will hear from Bolton Safeguarding Children Partnership and LADO colleagues. This term the event will take place at The Bridge Church.
Level 2 Award: Safe Handling and Administration of Medications for Children, Including Ofsted Requirements | 3rd December 2026 | 9:30am - 4:00pm
03-12-2026
Please book directly with the Learning and Development Service.
E-learning | Get Bolton Reading Golden Nuggets 0-3s
28-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. This course creatively explores how every child communication resources and the Start Well Stories can be used to develop two crucial aspects of early reading development: Word recognition and language comprehension for children under 3 years old.
E-learning | Get Bolton Reading Golden Nuggets 3-4s
28-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. This course creatively explores how every child communication resources and the Start Well Stories can be used to develop two crucial aspects of early reading development: Word recognition and language comprehension for children aged 3-4 years.
E-Learning Package | Teaching Maths in the Early Years (Includes The Number Journey and Turing NW Maths Hub)
29-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. Bolton Start Well in collaboration with The Turing North West Maths Hub have developed this interactive E-learning package. The package includes four modules: 1. Number Journey 2. Counting and Cardinality 3. Subitising 4. Spatial Awareness
E-learning | Mark Making to Writing Journey
29-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. The interactive course is designed to help practitioners to support children in early years education to develop the physical skills needed to become confident writers. Please allow up to 2½ hours to complete the full course, although you can stop and restart at any point.
E-learning | Phase 1 Phonics
29-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. A focus on developing phonological awareness, the building blocks for reading and writing.
E-learning | The Early Communication and Language Journey (including BLANK and ICW)
29-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. Designed to help practitioners understand typical communication and language development of early years children. This package includes three modules: 1. Communication and Language Journey 2. Information Carrying Words 3. BLANK Level Questions. This course was rewritten in June 2023 following the revised EYFS and updated Communication and Language Pathway.
E-learning | Behaviour and self-regulation in the early years
30-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. This course aims to support practitioners to learn ways to manage inappropriate behaviour and conflict in early years and understand how to prevent meltdowns and misunderstandings.
E-learning | The Role of the Early Years SENCO
30-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. Meeting the needs of children with SEND in the Early Years.
E-learning | An Introduction to the WellComm Toolkit for Childminders
31-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. E-learning for Childminders in Bolton which will focus on the WellComm Speech and Language Toolkit training and how to access the resources.
E-learning | WellComm Speech and Language Toolkit
31-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. This e-learning training is aimed at those who have already completed WellComm face to face training. Learn how to identify young children at risk of speech, language or communication difficulties and support them to improve their language skills.
E-learning | WellComm Speech and Language Toolkit for Public Health Nurses
31-12-2026
This E-Learning package is available upon request to access any time. The interactive course will help Public Health Nurses to learn how to identify young children at risk of speech, language or communication difficulties and support them to improve their language skills.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 25th January 2027 | 9:30am - 12:00noon
25-01-2027
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 25th January 2027 | 1:30pm - 4:00pm
25-01-2027
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Level 2 Award: Safe Handling and Administration of Medications for Children, Including Ofsted Requirements | 11th February 2027 | 9:30am - 4:00pm
11-02-2027
Please book directly with the Learning and Development Service.
New GMCA WellComm Training | 25th February and 11th March 2027 | 9:30am - 12:30pm | Harvey Best Start Family Hub
25-02-2027
This New Gold Standard 'GMCA WellComm Training' provides participants with a deeper level of knowledge and the skills to know how to effectively use both the WellComm screen and the interventions. Join us for 2 half-day sessions as we focus on the use of the WellComm as a screening tool and undertake a deep dive into the interventions, results monitoring, and how we review progress.
Early Years and Childcare Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL) Network Meeting | 9th March 2027 | 9:30am - 11:00am
09-03-2027
For DSLs (and Deputy DSLs) in PVI settings only. This termly network event allows DSLs the opportunity to keep up to date with safeguarding news, access CPD opportunities and to network with other DSLs in Bolton. You will hear from Bolton Safeguarding Children Partnership and LADO colleagues. This term the event will take place online.
ELKLAN 0-3s | Weekly from Wednesday 21st April 2027 (10 Weeks) | 1:00pm - 3:30pm | Harvey Best Start Family Hub
21-04-2027
ELKLAN 0-3s is a 10-week accredited course for EYPs working with children aged 0-3 years and their families. The course is externally accredited. Discover ELKLAN teaching methods and activities designed to support and engage children. Part-funded for settings and schools.
Schools EYFS Network Briefing | 29th April 2027 | 9:00am - 11:30am
29-04-2027
This in person briefing for Early Years Leads in Schools will include national and local news and updates from Start Well and partner services; it will help support professional development and leadership of the EYFS. Venue: Harvey Family Hub, Shaw Street, Bolton BL3 6HU
Daycare EYFS Network Briefings | 29th April 2027 | 12:30pm - 3:00pm
29-04-2027
This facilitated network event allows Managers and Room Leaders in settings the opportunity to review key topics at opportune points throughout the academic year, with time in between for self-reflection. The venue for this event is Harvey Family Hub, Shaw Street, Bolton BL3 6HU
Childminders EYFS Network Briefing | 29th April 2027 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm
29-04-2027
Keeping you up to date on all the latest developments in the Early Years Foundation Stage to support your professional development. This briefing will take place at Harvey Family Hub.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 11th May 2027 | 9:30am - 12:00noon
11-05-2027
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 11th May 2027 | 1:30pm - 4:00pm
11-05-2027
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 11th May 2027 | 6:15pm - 8:45pm
11-05-2027
Communication is everyone's responsibility! This 2.5 hour workshop is an opportunity for everyone who works with 0-5 year old’s and their families to find out more about the 5 Golden Rules for Communication. New and experienced practitioners will explore how the 5 Golden Rules for Communication can be used every day to support children’s speech, language and communication.
Out of School Club (OOSC) EYFS Network Briefing | 20th May 2027 | 10:00am - 12:00pm | Harvey Family Hub
20-05-2027
An opportunity for registered Out of School Providers in Bolton to meet their peers and discuss contemporary issues affecting OOSC's.
Childminders Safeguarding Network | 6th July 2027 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm
06-07-2027
For childminders only. This annual network event allows childminders the opportunity to keep up to date with safeguarding news, access CPD opportunities and to network with others in Bolton. You will hear from Bolton Safeguarding Children Partnership and LADO colleagues.
Early Years and Childcare Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL) Network Meeting | 8th July 2027 | 9:30am - 11:00am
08-07-2027
For DSLs (and Deputy DSLs) in PVI settings only. This termly network event allows DSLs the opportunity to keep up to date with safeguarding news, access CPD opportunities and to network with other DSLs in Bolton. You will hear from Bolton Safeguarding Children Partnership and LADO colleagues. This term the event will take place online.
