Teacher training, education and professional development for practitioners and volunteers
At Learning Unlimited, we shape our training around the needs, interests and day-to-day realities of the organisations and people we work with. Every programme is designed to be relevant, practical and engaging, so participants can immediately apply what they learn in their own settings and communities.
We use creative, participatory approaches that encourage discussion, reflection and shared learning. Whether delivered online, face-to-face or through a blended model, our sessions include interactive activities, practical tasks and opportunities to learn from others.
Our training can be tailored to suit your goals, timescales and budget, whether you’re looking for a one-off workshop or a longer programme delivered over several sessions.
Training for ESOL practitioners
Teaching English Language and Literacy learners (TELLs)
The TELLs course is aimed at all those teaching, working with, or supporting learners of English language who have no or very limited literacy skills (in any language). It is ideal for those who have taken an initial TEFL/TESOL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language/ Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) training course which, although it may have covered many aspects of teaching and learning English, did not include a focus on the acquisition and development of initial literacy. This course is also available in self-access form.
Participatory photography and creative writing
This flexible course explores the use of participatory photography in language learning contexts. Taking and sharing smartphone photos can be an extraordinary language learning tool, a way of building community and support to creativity and wellbeing. It can give learners a voice and an opportunity to be heard at every level including beginners, unlocking personal expression along with hidden narratives and perspectives.
How to run English conversation clubs and classes
This interactive training covers all the basics in running a conversation club for migrant (and other) English learners including: understanding the role of the facilitator/volunteer; how to negotiate topics; strategies for getting the conversation going; focussing on facilitating conversation rather than ‘teaching’ language; keeping planning simple; approaches and activities to actively involve participants; using published resources, images and everyday objects; what to do if things go wrong.
Using graded readers with English literacy learners
What is the best way to use graded readers with English literacy learners? How can you exploit the text for vocabulary and reading development? What kind of activities provide good practice? We will explore these questions (and others) in this interactive training in which you’ll be able to share ideas and look at practical ways readers can be used to support literacy development.
Trauma-informed practice for language and literacy teachers
This training considers the challenges of working with learners who may be suffering from PTSD (Post traumatic stress disorder) in language and literacy learning contexts. It explores current thinking around trauma along with its possible causes and effects, including how it may manifest in learning contexts, and considers the most effective and supportive ways of working with learners who may be survivors of deeply traumatic events.
Training for Family Learning practitioners
Introduction to Family Learning
This introductory session explores what family learning is and why it matters. Participants will discover how involving parents and carers in their children’s learning can boost outcomes, strengthen relationships and build confidence. The course also looks at practical ways to engage parents effectively and create welcoming, inclusive learning environments.
Health literacy for Family Learning
Using Learning Unlimited’s free Health at Home resources, this course introduces the concept of health literacy — the skills and confidence needed to understand and act on health information. Participants will learn how to integrate health literacy activities into family learning sessions and support families to make informed choices about their wellbeing.
Family Learning approaches to supporting Early Years maths
Aimed at early years teachers, practitioners and family learning facilitators, this training explores how to engage parents in developing children’s early maths skills. It covers why working with parents is key, practical ideas for hands-on maths activities, and strategies to make early maths fun and meaningful at home.
Working with bilingual families
This course supports practitioners to use the free Family Skills resource when working with bilingual families. It explores how to celebrate and build on families’ linguistic and cultural strengths, encouraging parents to use their home languages while supporting their children’s English development.
Connecting families
Using Learning Unlimited’s free Connecting Families resource, this session explores ways to strengthen relationships and communication within communities. Participants will learn how to adapt and deliver activities that promote connection, understanding and shared learning at home and in community settings.
Participatory photography and creative writing with families
This training explores activities for intergenerational activities to encourage families to explore their lives and surroundings together through photography. By taking photos, creating visual stories, and sharing experiences, families strengthen bonds, spark creativity, and discover new ways to communicate and learn together.
Training for adult learning practitioners
Trauma-informed practice for adult learning contexts
This training considers the challenges of working with learners who may be suffering from PTSD (Post traumatic stress disorder) in adult learning contexts including family learning. It explores current thinking around trauma along with its possible causes and effects, including how it may manifest in learning contexts, and considers the most effective and supportive ways of working with learners who may be survivors of deeply traumatic events.
Participatory photography and creative writing with older people
Participatory photography and creative writing are wonderful ways to connect with older communities, helping to build confidence, develop digital skills and reduce loneliness and isolation. In this session, we’ll share stories and resources from the Through Our Eyes project and explore the accompanying practitioners’ guide. Together, we’ll try out simple, creative activities that encourage reflection, connection, and sharing memories — bringing people together, celebrating the past and inspiring new moments of community and creativity.
Working with sanctuary seekers
This course offers practical guidance on setting up and running a welcome project for newly arrived asylum-seeking individuals and families. It covers ways to support access to local services, promote integration and inclusion, and help participants acclimatise to life in the UK.
Creative ideas for community workshops and courses
Discover how to design and deliver creative workshops using participatory photography, crafts and group activities. The session explores how to build trust, create a welcoming atmosphere and encourage self-expression, connection and wellbeing within community groups.
Volunteer training – bespoke courses with optional accreditation
This training is designed according to need to suit the context your volunteers work in, whether supporting in Family Learning, working with sanctuary seekers or if they are sanctuary seekers themselves. It will help identify key skills and equip participants with the skills and knowledge they need for their role. Accreditation is available at a range of levels, through the Open College Network.
We’re always developing new ideas and new content, so please feel free to contact us to discuss your requirements.