Parenting UK believes that the key to effective delivery of all types of parenting services is the quality of the practitioners.

Under the aegis of Lifelong Learning UK (the Sector Skills Council for further, higher, adult, community and work-based education) Parenting UK worked to develop the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for the sector. In 2005 the Standards were approved by the UK Regulatory bodies (QCA, SQA, ACCAC and QA NQ) and Parenting UK produced a report on the demand for qualifications in work with parents.

The Standards are due to be reviewed as part of a continued investment in the development of a professional pathway for parenting practitioners. PUK will ensure that the voice and experience of parenting practitioners is heard in this review. If you would like to join the working group which will input into the review, please email us.

Parenting UK was one of the founding members of the National Academy for Parenting Practitioners, which was established to transform the quality and size of the parenting workforce across England so that parents can get the help they need to raise their children well. The Academy is now an independent organization, delivering an ambitious strategic plan which includes training for practitioners. The Academy offers a three-pronged training programme: evidence based programme training, core parenting skills QCF level 3, and good practice workshops. For further details go to the Academy website.

Please see the Practitioner Courses page of this website for listings of other training courses run for people who work with parents. If you have further questions about training, feel free to contact our Information Service: email or phone 020 7284 8370.