Flat Pack Parent Facilitator Skills Training

There is currently a lot of emphasis on qualification and quality standards in parent education so The Family Matters Institute has, in association with the Open College Network, developed an accredited training course for facilitators using our Flat Pack Parent Resource.

To gain OCN accreditation (6 credits at level 2) a student must attend two training days, observe an experienced small group facilitator, and complete a portfolio of evidence compiled whilst facilitating a Flat Pack Parent group.

Day one

Day 1 of training introduces the various elements of the resource, including:

• A general overview of the resource and an explanation of its DIY ‘parent-led’ ethos
• An understanding of the aim: to increase effective communication between adults and teens
• The planning and practicalities associated with setting up and running a Flat Pack Parent group (including confidentiality agreement and child protection issues)
• Developing good presentation skills

• How to lead a small discussion group effectively and sensitively
• How one may use media (film, TV, art and music) to open up discussions relating to parenting in the teen zone
• The need to offer a range of activities in order to accommodate different learning styles
• The value of working with other agencies
• Knowledge of local referral routes
• Ability to gather supporting information sheets, leaflets, etc
• The need for effective evaluation

At the end of Day 1 each student is assigned one of the 10 Flat Pack Parent Topics. (Peer Pressure, Self-Esteem, Body Image, Drugs, Alcohol, Talking about at Home, Teenage uality, Teenage Pregnancy, Online Safety, Media Influence)

They are required to research and prepare a 15 minute presentation to be given during the 2nd day of training.

Day two

Day 2 of training consists of:

• Student presentations
• Tutorials
• feedback on presentations
• assessment of understanding of skills associated with effective communication with teenagers
• matters concerning portfolio preparation
• Further research
• Plenary and shared learning

Availability

If you can gather six or more student facilitators together, a course tutor can bring the training to your venue. Individuals or small groups can attend training days that we run at Moggerhanger. Check our diary for planned course dates or contact us for details of costs and availability.

Our tutors will be very happy to talk to you if you have any more questions.