This introductory course aims to develop practitioners understanding of the developing knowledge base which exists on children’s rights. It is aimed at both practitioners and managers who wish to update their knowledge of the ‘rights’ based agenda which is developing in Wales and for professionals relatively new to this field of study.  The programme seeks to develop participants' understanding of both the policy framework which exists in Wales and also the role of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.  It also examines how this ‘rights’ based approach is being developed in various settings and for various groups of children and young people.

Who is the course for?

This programme has been developed for practitioners working with children and young people in a range of services and sectors.  It has to date been delivered to professionals working within the statutory, voluntary, health and education sector including social workers, senior practitioners, foster carers, residential care workers, education welfare workers, health visitors, youth offending workers, police/fire officers with child protection responsibilities and many others.

The adaptable programme can be tailored for both a multi-agency audience as well as a specific single agency e.g. residential care workers only, foster carers only etc.  It has also been adapted for a multi agency audience who work with a particular age group or specific groups of children and young people e.g. looked after children, disabled children etc.

Aims

• The course aims to develop participants understanding of the role of ‘children’s rights’ and how it can be incorporated by practitioners in their day to day practice.
• The course will be underpinned by key policy developments, which will include reference to the Children Act, Human Right’s Act, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and other policy frameworks and instruments. 
• The course will examine the similarities and differences between these policy drivers in supporting our understanding of children’s rights theory and practice.
• The course will also seek to use the above framework and link it to practitioners current practice issues and dilemmas
• The role of personal values and attitudes in our approach to children’s rights will be discussed and explored
• The course will also pay particular attention to the discussion around Participation.  This will include and overview of the participation agenda and explore ways in which children and young people can be effectively engaged through consultation techniques and inclusive practice methods.

Working methods of the course

The course will seek to use a range of participatory methods to engage professionals.  

All course participants will receive an extensive information pack, which can be used to support their leaning when back in the work place

Note: The course programme has previously been extended to a 2-day training event if desired. Please request details in relation to costings and content.

Details of forthcoming pre arranged courses are available in Events Section or Tel 029 2034 2434 for more information.