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Staff Training

How-to Strategies

Planning

  • Identify training needs by determining who should be trained, what topics should be covered, who will lead the training, and how often sessions should occur.
  • Explore the training suggestions of previous staff or volunteers for training suggestions.
  • Explore the training suggestions of parents and caregivers of persons with disabilities.
  • Review existing training resources from local, national, and international organizations before developing new ones.
  • Assign staff or community partners (such as disability service agencies or local experts) to help adapt or develop materials.
  • Assess budget requirements and secure funding where needed (see Area of Practice: Persuading Decision-Makers)
  • Tailor training to the local context or develop new tools if necessary.
  • Explore online inclusion training opportunities, such as those offered here by Active Abilities Canada.

Content

  • Include local examples that allow staff to practise inclusion skills.
  • Teach both the medical and social models of disability, encouraging reflection on how personal attitudes influence service delivery.
  • Emphasize practices that encourage persons with disabilities to make choices, set personal goals, and take appropriate risks.
  • Strengthen learners’ knowledge, confidence, and motivation to apply inclusive practices.
  • Prepare learners’ to identify opportunities to apply inclusive practices.
  • Provide practical strategies and adaptable tools staff can use in different situations.
  • Reflect relevant provincial and municipal standards.
  • Describe a programming approach where participants’ experiences, needs, abilities and desires are prioritized.

Design and Delivery

  • Align with local policy objectives and accessibility frameworks.
  • Encourage shared learning among trainers and staff.
  • Use case studies and scenario-based activities that allow staff to practise inclusion skills.
  • Deliver training in partnership with people with lived experience, non-profits, schools, universities, and health professionals.
  • Integrate inclusion principles into existing professional development activities or offer training as a stand-alone module.
  • Use accessible formats, technology (such as online modules), and multiple modes of learning.
  • Offer certification or recognition upon completion.

Other Resources on Staff Training