Courses

Mandatory training and other courses

Visit Bolton's Learning and Development - Working with Children webpage for access to First Aid, Safeguarding and Mental Health and Wellbeing courses. 

Access the new Families First fully-funded training for wraparound providers in Bolton (time limited).

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


GM Business Growth Hub Webinar: Essential Cyber Protection: Simple Steps for Early Years Managers | 2nd December 2025 | 10:00am - 11:00am | Online

02-12-2025

Book at directly using the link in the description. Held online. Audience: Early Years Providers (PVI’s - Private, voluntary, and independent nurseries) based in Greater Manchester. Sole traders are not eligible.

Sound Start Bolton: Strengthening our Pre-phonics Practice | 3rd December 2025 | 1:30pm - 3:30pm

03-12-2025

A collaborative pre-phonics network event designed to reflect, celebrate, and strengthen our collective practice across Bolton’s early years settings.

Sound Start Bolton: Strengthening our Pre-phonics Practice | 3rd December 2025 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm

03-12-2025

A collaborative pre-phonics network event designed to reflect, celebrate, and strengthen our collective practice across Bolton’s early years settings.

Attention Autism CPD Training Offer: Fully booked for January 2026

08-01-2026

MUST BE BOOKED BY COMPLETION OF EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORM. Attention Autism programmes are suitable for all Early Years children, both those with and without social communication difficulties. Early Years learning can be delivered inclusively through this model to great effect with a strong emphasis on speech, language, and attention skills as well as the promotion of Personal Social and Emotional skills. If this course is oversubscribed, priority will be given to schools and settings with high numbers of inclusion fund children, areas of deprivation and settings which have not accessed the training before.

SENIF - Early Identification and Early Intervention for Early Years SEND | 12th January 2026 | 9:30am to 3:00pm

12-01-2026

Supporting practitioners to implement graduated approach following the cycle of action For EYFS staff supporting children in receipt of Inclusion Fund, EYFS Leaders, EYFS SENCOs, and all EYFS practitioners The session provides a forum for EYFS practitioners to support Early Intervention and Early Intervention in line with The Code of Practice

Everyday Communication: The 5 Golden Rules in Action | 15th January 2026 | 9:30am - 12:00noon

15-01-2026

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 | 15th January 2026 | 1:30pm - 4:00pm

15-01-2026

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 | 15th January 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm

15-01-2026

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.

GM Business Growth Hub Webinar: Cyber Security Awareness Training (Early Years) | 20th January 2026 | 10:00am - 11:30am | Online

20-01-2026

Book at directly using the link in the description. Held online. Audience: Early Years Providers (PVI’s - Private, voluntary, and independent nurseries) based in Greater Manchester. Sole traders are not eligible.

Raising Early Achievement in Literacy - Making it REAL in Bolton | 2 Day Training - 21 and 28 January 2026 (plus 3 network events) | 9:00am to 4:00pm

21-01-2026

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. This is a training programme for group providers who deliver the EYFS to funded 2, 3 and 4-year-olds and children in reception.

SENIF - A Holistic Approach for Supporting Emotional Development | 22nd January 2026 | 9:30am to 3:30pm

22-01-2026

Jointly delivered by The Educational Psychology Service, Start Well and Woodbridge SEND services this full day course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of attachment theory, factors that influence behaviour and positive intervention approaches. You’ll explore how the dynamics of early relationships influence how children interact.

New GMCA WellComm Training | 23rd January and 6th February 2026 | 9:30am - 12:30pm | Harvey Family Hub

23-01-2026

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.

Online EYFS Briefing for Bolton Schools, Daycare and Out of School Clubs | 27th January 2026 | 9:30am - 11:30pm

27-01-2026

This live online briefing will include national and local news and updates from Quality and Outcomes, SEND, Communication and Language and partner services. We aim to record the briefing for practitioners to access later for personal development or team reflections and discussion.

2 Year Old Network Event | 29th January 2026 | 9:30am - 11:30am

29-01-2026

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.

Early Years Music Network Meetings | Wednesday 4th February 2026 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm | Bolton (Mere Hall)

04-02-2026

Bolton Music Service invite Early Years Practitioners, Managers and Leaders to attend their Early Years Music Networks - come along and try out songs and activities; share good practice, ideas and material. Book directly: https://boltonmusicservice.com/cpd/

Daycare - Are You Ready For Your Ofsted Inspection Under The New Framework? | 5th February 2026 | 9:30am - 11:30am

05-02-2026

Are you due your Ofsted inspection? Come along and share your practice and reflect on the new Ofsted inspection framework and gradings.

Supporting Multilingual Children and Families | 5th February 2026 | 1:30pm - 4:00pm

05-02-2026

A workshop jointly delivered by the Early Years Communication and Language Development Service (EYCLDS) and the Achievement, Cohesion and Integration Service (ACIS). For practitioners in schools and settings working with children aged 0-5 for whom English is an additional language. Discover resources, strategies and activities to support and engage children and hear about the services available in Bolton.

Physical Literacy in the Early Years Conference | Wednesday 11th February 2026 | 9:30am - 4:00pm

11-02-2026

Moving Minds, Moving Bodies: Building Confidence, Capable Learners Through Physical Literacy. This year’s conference aims to inspire early years practitioners to recognise the vital role of physical literacy in every child’s development. Physical literacy is more than movement—it’s about nurturing confidence, motivation, and competence in physical activity to support lifelong wellbeing. Throughout the day, we will explore how high-quality physical development opportunities can positively impact children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Practitioners will be encouraged to reflect on how to create inclusive, engaging environments that promote movement, play, and exploration for all children.

Early Years Music Network Meetings | Wednesday 11th February 2026 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm | Blackburn with Darwen (The Bureau for the Arts)

11-02-2026

Bolton Music Service invite Early Years Practitioners, Managers and Leaders to attend their Early Years Music Networks - come along and try out songs and activities; share good practice, ideas and material. Book directly: https://boltonmusicservice.com/cpd/

SENIF - Creativity to Support Emotional Regulation for Children with SEND Needs | 12th February 2026

12-02-2026

Delivered by Sugarlumps. Learn how messy play and process art can support children’s emotional regulation. Learn about how the window of tolerance can be applied in the EYFS through art opportunities as well as how to overcome barriers to offering these activities. For EYFS staff supporting children in receipt of Inclusion Fund as well as EYFS Leaders, EYFS SENCOs, and all EYFS practitioners

SENIF - Supporting Early Communication and Language Development | 13th February 2026 | 10:00am - 12:00noon

13-02-2026

This workshop is designed to develop participant’s knowledge of early communication and language development. It will explore the importance of effective adult-child interaction strategies and how to use them to support children’s communication development.

SENIF - Early Connections: Supporting Social Communication, Attention, and Learning | 24th February 2026 | 9:30am to 3:30pm

24-02-2026

A practical training session designed to help practitioners create rich opportunities for interaction, joint attention, and early communication. With a focus on supporting children with social communication needs, including those on the ASC – BSCIP pathway, the session explores total communication approaches by integrating Signalong, visual supports, and communication symbols.

Daycare Managers Network Meeting | 25th February 2026 | 5:00pm - 7:00pm

25-02-2026

This facilitated network opportunity will allow managers and leads in Bolton Daycare settings the opportunity to come together to look at key topics in the summer term. Session focus: Inclusion Quality Award Meeting venue: The Olive Garden Nursery

SENIF - Accessibility for Children with Additional Physical Needs | 26th February 2026 | 9:30am - 3:30pm

26-02-2026

The session provides a forum for EYFS practitioners to gain an understanding of how they can support children’s physical and sensory needs For EYFS staff supporting children in receipt of Inclusion Fund, ETFS Leaders, EYFS SENCOs, and all EYFS practitioners.

2 Year Old Network Event | 26th February 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm

26-02-2026

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.

SENIF - The Early Years Regulation Toolkit | 5th March 2026 | 9:30am to 3:30pm

05-03-2026

Offers practical, hands-on strategies for practitioners to support young children's sensory regulation and nervous system awareness. Grounded in approaches such as sensory circuits and Polyvagal Theory, the session explores how to build effective co-regulation practices and create personalised toolkits that help children feel safe, calm, and ready to engage. Ideal for early years settings, this training empowers practitioners to better understand and respond to the sensory and emotional needs of the children in their care.

New GMCA WellComm Training | 12th and 26th March 2026 | 9:30am - 12:30pm | Harvey Family Hub

12-03-2026

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.

SENIF - Creativity to Support Emotional Regulation for Children with SEND Needs | 26th March 2026

26-03-2026

Delivered by Sugarlumps. Learn how messy play and process art can support children’s emotional regulation. Learn about how the window of tolerance can be applied in the EYFS through art opportunities as well as how to overcome barriers to offering these activities. For EYFS staff supporting children in receipt of Inclusion Fund as well as EYFS Leaders, EYFS SENCOs, and all EYFS practitioners

ELKLAN 0-3s | Weekly from Tuesday 21st April 2026 (10 Weeks) | 9:30am - 12:00pm | Harvey Start Well Centre

21-04-2026

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.

Bolton Early Years Community of Practice Network | 23rd April 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm

23-04-2026

This 'Community of Practice' will have a communication, language and literacy focus. Find out more about the Family Hub Network, supporting parents to improve outcomes for children in communication, language and literacy. Family Hub Practitioners and EYCLDS will share their planning for stay and play and parent child interaction groups. Practitioners will share the key messages they share with parents at Let’s Get Talking and Chat, Play, Read.

Daycare - Are You Ready For Your Ofsted Inspection Under The New Framework? | 6th May 2026 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm

06-05-2026

Are you due your Ofsted inspection? Join us and share your practice and reflect on the new Ofsted inspection framework and gradings. This session will be held online.

New GMCA WellComm Training | 8th and 22nd May 2026 | 9:30am - 12:30pm | Harvey Family Hub

08-05-2026

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.

BIG Night Out Transition Event - Supporting Smooth Transitions | 12th May 2026 | 5:30pm - 8:00pm

12-05-2026

A transition from nursery to reception event for practitioners, leaders, and managers in Bolton Schools, Daycare, and Childminder settings. Together, we can achieve strong partnerships for seamless transitions.

SENIF - Effective Parent Carer Partnerships for Children with SEND needs | 11th June 2026 | 9:30am to 3:30pm

11-06-2026

Supporting good practice for working collaboratively with parents and carers of children with SEND needs For EYFS staff supporting children in receipt of Inclusion Fund, ETFS Leaders, EYFS SENCOs, and all EYFS practitioners.

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.

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.

E-learning | Get Bolton Reading Golden Nuggets 0-3s

28-07-2026

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

28-07-2026

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.

Department for Education Early Years Child Development Training | Complete Online Anytime

31-07-2026

Free DfE online training covering child and brain development, PSED and Communication and Language. Training accessed via https://child-development-training.education.gov.uk/