Continuous professional development (CPD) is important for all of us – even the training providers! Jane Cameron completed Open University on-line learning course ‘Take your teaching online’ and an ‘On-line Facilitation Skills’ module in Summer 2020.  Following this, Positively Speaking training techniques and materials were adapted to ensure suitability for on-line trainer-lead delivery and to ensure participant inclusivity, interaction and participation. Jane also updated her CPD by attending a skills training course with Speakers Trust Training Charity (Communication and Confidence Skills Training) in January 2020.

Assertive and confident communication and behaviour in the work-place can build self-esteem, improve relationships and promote effective working practices. In Autumn 2020, we delivered 16 on-line training courses with members of UNISON from the social and care sectors and from local authorities across Scotland. This training was delivered via Scottish Union Learning, funded by ScotGov. Learners considered the benefits of assertiveness, practised various assertiveness techniques and considered options for effectively dealing with challenges in the work-place. Importantly, learners considered how showing respect to others and using open-listening techniques are part of assertive behaviour.

In May 2019 we worked with an enthusiastic group of Girlguides to provide media skills training for their new roles as Speak Out Champions. The group explored techniques for promoting Future Girl, the Girlguiding girl-led manifesto for change. Persuasive presentations were developed on subjects such as bullying, gender stereotypes, appearance pressures and the environment. The group also practised answering questions to ensure they communicated a positive message for Future Girl to engage and inspire others. Great to see girls promoting positive and active change!

Positively Speaking have delivered several workshops for EIS (Scotland’s largest education union). Our most recent was supporting effective work-place communication and assertive skills for EIS Equality Reps whose role is to advise, support and engage with equality issues. Delegates practised communication techniques to advocate clearly whilst respecting others; they also developed skills to increase the effectiveness of their workplace communication using relevant content and persuasive delivery. We look forward to working again with EIS.