Aims and Objectives
The aim of this programme is to develop skilled Facilitating Trainers who can confidently deliver The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism Tier 2 to others.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Develop a clear understanding of the content and structure of The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism Tier 2.
- Enhance their own knowledge and awareness of learning disability and autism.
- Recognise the importance and value of co-production and collaborative working.
- Develop the confidence and skills required to deliver Part 2 of The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism Tier 2.
- Facilitate discussions, activities and learning in an engaging and inclusive manner.
This intensive two-day programme prepares delegates to facilitate the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism in accordance with the national programme requirements. Training is delivered by experienced Gateway Facilitators alongside Expert Co-Trainers with lived experience.
Who should attend?
This course is suitable for:
- Registered healthcare professionals
- Social care professionals
- Education professionals involved in workforce development
- Experienced trainers and educators
- Staff nominated by their organisation to become Tier 2 Facilitators
(Entry requirements apply in line with the Oliver McGowan programme.)
Course Objectives
By the end of the programme delegates will be able to:
- Understand the principles underpinning the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training.
- Facilitate Tier 2 training confidently and effectively.
- Deliver learning using nationally approved resources.
- Support discussion and reflection around reasonable adjustments.
- Work effectively alongside Expert Co-Trainers.
- Demonstrate competence through observed facilitation activities.
Course Content
Day One
- Introduction to the Oliver McGowan programme
- National standards and quality assurance
- Understanding learning disability and autism
- The role of the Facilitator
- Working alongside Experts by Experience
- Communication and inclusive facilitation
- Managing group discussions
- Practical facilitation exercises
Day Two
- Delivering sections of the programme
- Micro-teach sessions
- Feedback and reflective practice
- Managing challenging questions
- Quality assurance expectations
- Competency assessment
- Next steps following approval
Included
✔ Two-day face-to-face training
✔ Experienced Lead Facilitator
✔ Expert Co-Trainers
✔ Course workbook and resources
✔ Refreshments and lunch
✔ Certificate (subject to successful completion)
Venue
Delivered in modern conference facilities with complimentary refreshments throughout the day.
Why choose Gateway?
- Nationally approved Oliver McGowan Facilitator Training provider
- Experienced NHS and Health & Social Care educators
- Expert Co-Trainers with lived experience
- Small class sizes to maximise participation
- High-quality venues with excellent delegate support
- Ongoing support following completion
Course Pre-Requisites
The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training focuses on awareness, understanding and improving practice. It is not designed to provide training on specific treatments or interventions. Instead, it equips staff with the knowledge, skills and understanding required to deliver Tier 2 Mandatory Training and promote positive experiences and outcomes for people with a learning disability and/or autism within health and social care services.
Successful completion of this programme will enable participants to become approved trainers through Health Education England and Oliver’s Campaign, receiving a unique PIN authorising them to deliver the training.
Facilitating Trainers must continue to work alongside trained and approved co-trainers with lived experience, including individuals with autism and/or a learning disability, when delivering The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training Tier 2.
Our Oliver McGowan Co-Trainers
Each workshop is delivered by an experienced and accredited Oliver McGowan Trainer alongside two Oliver McGowan co-trainers.
Our co-trainers are experts by lived experience and play a central role in the success and impact of the training. By sharing their personal experiences of autism and/or learning disability, they provide invaluable insight that enhances participants’ understanding and learning.
Their knowledge, perspectives and contributions are fundamental to the programme and help ensure the training remains meaningful, authentic and person-centred.
Mode of Delivery
This programme is delivered exclusively through face-to-face workshops to ensure a highly interactive and engaging learning experience.
The workshop format allows participants to develop practical facilitation skills, take part in group discussion, and engage in real-time collaborative learning activities.
Every workshop is supported by an experienced and accredited Oliver McGowan Trainer together with two co-trainers who are experts through lived experience.
All Oliver McGowan training is co-delivered with experts with lived experience of a learning disability or autism.
You therefore must have plans in place to hire or train your potential experts with lived experience of a learning disability or autism. You cannot use colleagues / friends / family who have been diagnosed with autism or a learning disability; they must attend the official Oliver McGowan “train the trainer” which usually lasts 3 shorter days or 2 full days (12 hours in total).