Community education officer : Training

Staff development will vary according to the setting of the job and its specific demands but is likely to consist of short courses to develop skills or raise awareness of specific issues. This might involve health promotion issues, group work or training in the field of staff development.

These courses are often provided in-house, or by other organisations in the field of community development and lifelong learning. Such training opportunities are often funded through regional development agencies and may be coordinated by:

• the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE)    
• the National Association for Voluntary and Community Action (NAVCA)    
• The Scottish Government - Education and Training  

Postgraduate MA courses in community studies and/or education are valuable for career development. Those heavily involved in outreach roles may find that NVQ or diploma qualifications in youth and community work enhance your prospects. Such courses may be available part-time, and be encouraged and/or paid for by the employer. Visit Lifelong Learning UK (LLUK)  for further details on approved further education teaching qualifications.