Learning & Development

CHAS recognises that having a well informed, skilled and motivated team enables us to deliver the best possible service to children, young people and families. Learning allows us to adapt; individual learning enables change and growth.

Our staff and volunteers are the most flexible, powerful and essential part of our ability to deliver our vital services. Learning is part of all CHAS’s work, so we have a dedicated Leaning and Development Team that will help you to develop your competence, confidence and commitment in your role. We want to help you to work efficiently and effectively, and make the best use of our available resources and technologies.

Learning and development opportunities in CHAS are available to all, regardless of role and length of time with CHAS.

Induction

Learning starts from the first day a new employee joins CHAS. We are proud of our induction process, during which you will visit all our sites and meet the people responsible for our key functions. We see this as an investment in your future with CHAS and an opportunity for you to understand what we do and how we do it.

It is also vital that you are able to work safely, and are aware of your responsibility to yourself and others. Blended into induction is our ‘Learnpro’ on-line learning package.

Identifying learning needs

CHAS has a staff review and development (appraisal) system to help us stay aware of your performance and development needs. Learning and development activities are agreed at these reviews in conjunction with your line manager, and then reviewed regularly throughout the year.

Learning methods

Although a huge amount of your learning will be on-the-job, there will be occasions where other learning methods will be more appropriate. In addition, individuals have different learning styles and preferences. We use a wide range of methods for addressing your learning needs from traditional training courses, to coaching and shadowing, to self-directed study. We have supported staff to complete all manner of relevant qualifications; all we ask in return is that you use these skills for the benefit of CHAS.

Professional learning

With over 100 different roles, CHAS is a complex organisation. We encourage all our staff to attend to their continuing professional development (CPD) as the best way of making sure your skills and knowledge are relevant and up to date.

We will also invite you to use evidence informed practice and stay in touch with what is happening in your professional field. Many of our staff attend conferences and seminars to keep up to date and to network with their peers.

Sharing our learning

CHAS is also involved in education and research. We recognise that our skills and expertise have relevance and benefit beyond CHAS. This helps us maintain our profile as a specialist care provider, and emphasises the value of CHAS to the wider community.