VODG Learning and Development Professional Network Meeting | December 2025

We’re pleased to announce that bookings are now open for the next meeting of the Learning and Development Professional Network — a valuable opportunity to connect, share, and learn with peers across the sector.

Exploring the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training

Our opening session will take a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities of meeting the standards for the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training. You’ll hear directly from VODG members who have adopted a range of approaches — sharing what they’ve done, why they chose their path, and how they’ve tackled common hurdles along the way.

This session is designed to offer practical insights and spark meaningful discussion, with ample time for questions and peer exchange.

Spotlight on Foundation Apprenticeships

Following a short break, we’re delighted to welcome Sally Lloyd and Cheryle Cox from Skills for Care, who will introduce Foundation Apprenticeships — a key part of the government’s strategy to strengthen long-term workforce development and open up new opportunities for young people entering the sector.

Speakers

Heidi Waight

Heidi Waight

Organisation Development Manager, FitzRoy

Catriona Huck

Catriona Huck

Learning & Development Manager, KeyRing

Katie Christmas

Katie Christmas

Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training Lead , Active Prospects

Sally Lloyd

Sally Lloyd

Programme Head - Workforce Capability and Skills (National) , Skills for Care

Cheryle Cox

Cheryle Cox

National Workforce Capability Lead, Skills for Care

Draft programme

10.00

VODG Welcome and Housekeeping

Sue Howarth, Membership and Marketing Officer, VODG

10.05

Introductions

Co-chairs

10.10

Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training

Member panel presentations, Q&A and member discussion

11.10

Break

11.15

Foundation Apprenticeships

Sally Lloyd, Programme Head and Cheryle Cox, National Lead, Skills for Care

11.45

Topics for future meetings

VODG co-chairs

15.55

Final Roundup

VODG

16.00

End

Accessibility  

Please note, should you have any accessibility requirements, we will do our best to make necessary arrangements to support you; however, we may require up to four weeks notice, so please list your requirements on the booking form. Closed captions are used as standard in online meetings. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Join the Learning and Development Professional Network

The L&D network provides colleagues a secure space to discuss pertinent issues and topics via our online forum, to upload documents and to view the lastest network events. 

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Learning and Development

Members (302) Discussions (109)

The VODG learning and development professional network welcomes L&D professionals from amongst our membership.

VODG Learning and Development Network Co-chairs

Heidi Walsh

Heidi Walsh

Head of Learning & Development, Sense

Lisa Bayley

Lisa Bayley

Head of Learning and Development, Milestones Trust

Vicky Marshall

Vicky Marshall

Head of Learning and Organisational Development, Active Prospects