When organisations book Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training, they often want to know more about the people delivering it.
This month, we sat down with our Lead Trainer, Penny Curtis, to ask a few questions about her experience delivering Oliver McGowan Training.

What do delegates usually expect before attending?

I think most people come along expecting to learn more about autism and learning disability and, hopefully, pick up some practical ideas they can use in their work. Some are very confident and have lots of experience, while others may feel they don't know very much at all. What I love is seeing those expectations change as the day goes on.

What is the biggest thing people take away from the training?

For me, it's often a change in perspective. People start to think differently about the person in front of them, rather than simply seeing a diagnosis or a set of behaviours. The training gives people a better understanding of how we can listen, communicate and make reasonable adjustments so that people receive care that genuinely works for them. It's also really helpful that people begin to realise that implementing those adjustments doesn't need to be a huge burden on finances.

What makes Oliver McGowan Training different?

The biggest difference is that people with lived experience are at the heart of the training. You're not simply being told what autism or learning disability is, you're hearing directly from people who can describe what good support feels like, and the impact when things aren't done well. That brings a completely different depth and authenticity to the learning. The fact that it is also co-designed by those delivering also makes a big difference

What is your favourite part of delivering the training?

Definitely the conversations. I love watching people start with a question or something they're unsure about and then have that lightbulb moment when something suddenly makes sense. Hearing delegates reflect on how they might do things differently afterwards is incredibly rewarding.

What feedback do you hear most often?

People often tell us that the training has made them stop and think about things they may have taken for granted. We hear that the lived-experience contributions are particularly powerful and that the training feels very real and relevant to their day-to-day work. Quite often, people leave saying, "I wish other sectors like education and the police service were able to do this training" and one of the most touching pieces of feedback we've had was from a social worker to a LD expert "I am sorry you were failed by the system. I am going to work as hard as I can to get better outcomes for other people with learning disabilities."

One message for organisations considering Oliver McGowan Training?

Do not think of it as just another mandatory course. It is an opportunity to build confidence, improve understanding and make a real difference to the experiences of autistic people and people with learning disabilities.

See full details about this high quality course here

Interested in Oliver McGowan Training for your workforce?
We would be delighted to discuss your requirements and upcoming delivery options.
 

Get in touch to find out more.

Look out for our next email, where we'll share the question we're asked most often about Oliver McGowan Training.

Feel free to forward this email to a colleague who may be interested