2026-27 Virtual School Training and Support Offer
As the new academic year begins, the Oxfordshire Virtual School is offering a range of training opportunities to support professionals working with children we care for, previously cared for children, children with a social worker and children in kinship care.
The programme is designed for Designated Teachers, Designated Safeguarding Leads, SENDCOs, pastoral staff, senior leaders and other professionals working to improve outcomes for children and young people who may have experienced adversity or additional vulnerability.
Colleagues are encouraged to book early, particularly those who are new to role or working directly with care-experienced children and young people, as demand for some sessions is expected to be high.
Upcoming training
17 September 2026 (Online)
Virtual School Head Briefing for Schools and Settings
An opportunity for Designated Teachers and school leaders to hear key updates and priorities for the 2026/27 academic year.
24 September 2026 (Online)
Designated Teacher Induction
Essential training covering statutory responsibilities, PEPs, ePEPs and the effective use of Pupil Premium Plus.
1 October 2026 (Online)
Early Years Designated Teacher Session
A dedicated induction and support session for Early Years Designated Teachers.
8 October 2026 (Unipart House, Oxford)
Oxfordshire Virtual School Annual Conference 2026
Education as the Anchor: Building Stability and Futures for Every Child
3 and 17 November 2026 (Didcot Civic Hall)
PACE for School Staff
A two-part programme exploring Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity and Empathy (PACE) and its application in schools.
10 November 2026 (Unipart House, Oxford)
De-escalation and Sensory Inputs Training
Practical approaches to understanding behaviour, reducing conflict and creating calmer learning environments.
11 November 2026 (Online)
Year 11 Transition Training
Supporting care-experienced young people as they move into post-16 education and training.
25 November 2026 (Online)
Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) and Challenging Behaviour
Exploring the links between communication needs and behaviour, with practical tools and strategies for schools.
26 November 2026 (Oxford)
What Does it Mean to Work Relationally?
Examining how relationships underpin learning, regulation, belonging and educational success.
1 December 2026 (Oxford)
Formulation: Planning Interventions for Complex Children
A practical session focused on understanding needs, planning interventions and evaluating impact for children with complex needs.
Find out more and book
View the full training programme and book places through the Oxfordshire Virtual School pages:
The Oxfordshire Virtual School looks forward to working with schools, settings and partners throughout the year to support educational stability, belonging and achievement for vulnerable children and young people.