Professional Development Policy

Policy Created: 26th august 2025
Review date: Annually, or sooner if legislation or guidance changes

Policy Statement

At Cheeky Minds, we believe that continuous professional development (CPD) is essential to providing high-quality care and education. We are committed to ensuring that all staff, including assistants and volunteers, have access to training, learning opportunities, and reflective practice that support their role and enhance outcomes for children.

Aims of the Policy

  • To ensure all staff meet and exceed statutory training requirements set by Ofsted and the EYFS framework.

  • To promote a culture of lifelong learning and reflective practice.

  • To develop staff knowledge, skills, and confidence in safeguarding, health and safety, child development, and inclusive practice.

  • To provide opportunities for staff to share learning and good practice with colleagues and parents.

Statutory Training Requirements

All staff must complete and maintain:

  • Paediatric First Aid (PFA) – renewed every 3 years.

  • Safeguarding & Child Protection – refreshed at least every 2 years (or sooner if required).

  • Food Hygiene & Safety – for anyone preparing or serving food.

  • Health & Safety / Risk Assessment Training – refreshed regularly.

  • Any mandatory training required by Ofsted or the Local Authority.

Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

  • Staff will be encouraged to take part in additional courses on topics such as:

    • Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND)

    • Supporting Positive Behaviour

    • Equality & Diversity

    • Early Years Curriculum & Play-Based Learning

    • Mental Health & Wellbeing (children and staff)

  • CPD may include online training, workshops, seminars, reading, and reflective discussions.

Induction & Ongoing Support

  • New staff will receive a full induction programme, including familiarisation with policies and procedures.

  • Regular supervision and appraisals will be held to identify training needs and set professional goals.

  • Reflection and feedback will be part of team meetings and 1:1 discussions.

Recording & Monitoring Training

  • A training log will be kept for each staff member.

  • Certificates of completion will be stored in personnel files.

  • The manager will review training annually to ensure compliance and identify new opportunities.

Staff Responsibilities

  • Take responsibility for their own learning and professional growth.

  • Actively participate in training opportunities provided.

  • Share knowledge and good practice with colleagues.

  • Reflect on their own practice and seek guidance when needed.

Management Responsibilities

  • Ensure staff are given time and resources to access training.

  • Provide up-to-date information on training opportunities.

  • Support staff in applying new learning to practice.

  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of training on outcomes for children.

Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier if new guidance or training requirements arise.