Community arts worker : Training

Continuing professional development (CPD) is important in order to keep abreast of new legislation, practices and opportunities. Freelancers in particular need to seek out training opportunities.

Local councils often run short, subsidised training courses to introduce arts practitioners to the field of community work. Similar training is also offered by larger community arts organisations themselves. The Voluntary Arts Network  lists details of courses across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland which are specifically aimed at the community arts sector.

For the youth arts sector the English National Youth Arts Network (ENYAN)  provides information on training and professional development.  Freelance community artists may be able to get training funded through the project they are involved in or be prepared to fund themselves for training courses.
Community arts work extends beyond using creative talent. Whether in local government or freelance, you may need to supplement your artistic training with courses in the following areas:

• writing funding proposals and bids (the Institute of Fundraising  has developed a certificate for fundraising managers);
• people management and managing teams; PR and marketing;
• project management, budget planning and financial accounting; 
• health and safety, child protection, insurance and liability;
• relevant aspects of social work and youth work;
• working with specific groups e.g. young offenders.

Some community arts workers may decide to formalise their teaching and training experience by studying for a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) or a PG Dip/MA in Education. Through the Creative Partnerships  initiative in England more emphasis is being given to training for creative professionals working in schools. Some universities also offer short courses to help build knowledge and awareness of policies such as Every Child Matters and curriculum issues. Museums and galleries also offer training for their own staff and those from other organisations within the sector.