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Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training and booking with us.
At Oliver McGowan Academy, we deliver inclusive, expert-led training designed to improve understanding of learning disability and autism across education, health, and social care settings. Below are answers to the most commonly asked questions
Training requirements
The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism is the government-standardised training designed to improve awareness, understanding, and support for autistic people and people with a learning disability. MDG Health Consult Ltd is an approved provider of this training.
Yes. The Health and Care Act 2022 introduced a legal requirement for CQC-registered health and care providers in England to ensure their staff receive learning disability and autism training that is appropriate to their role.
The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism is the government’s preferred and standardised training programme developed to help organisations meet this requirement.
Yes. Our training fully meets Care Quality Commission (CQC) requirements and is delivered in line with the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training framework, ensuring it aligns with national standards for health and social care providers.
Booking is easy. You can use our online Booking page or contact our team directly. Once everything is confirmed, we’ll send over all the details you need, including any preparation information.
We offer training across the UK and can arrange a session at one of our partner locations. For bespoke sessions, travel and mileage costs may apply.
Yes. We can deliver on-site training for teams of 12 or more delegates. This allows for a tailored, convenient learning experience within your organisation.
Our prices depend on the type of training and location. We always provide clear, upfront quotes. Just get in touch and we’ll be happy to tailor something based on your need.
No, previous experience is required. The training is designed to support both new and experienced health and social care staff.Â
Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism is delivered in 2 Tiers. Staff need to complete either Tier 1 or Tier 2. Both tiers consist of 2 parts.
Yes. NHS England offers reimbursement for eligible organisations accessing Oliver McGowan training. Eligible employers can claim staff training costs from the Adult Social Care Learning & Development Support Scheme (LDSS). We will support you by explaining the process and guiding you on how to submit your claim successfully.
Tier 1 can be attended by all staff who require general awareness of the support autistic people or people with a learning disability may need. It includes a short online module followed by a live virtual session. This is ideal for roles such as estates and facilities staff, corporate teams, administrative and clerical staff, volunteers, receptionist, customer service team, porters and transport staff.
Tier 2 Training is designed for staff who provide direct care and support. It is a more in-depth, full-day face-to-face training session with practical learning and Co-delivered with people with lived experience. It is the responsibility of employers to determine any further capabilities their staff need and to put in place the appropriate provisions.
Tier 1 is delivered virtually via Microsoft Teams, over 1 hour. The course can accommodate up to 20 candidates.Â
If you need to cancel, no problem, sessions can be rescheduled free of charge as long as you let us know more than 48 hours in advance. Cancellations within 48 hours or non-attendance are non-refundable.
Certification is typically valid for 3 years. Then you will be required to do a refresher.
The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism is a standardised programme, designed to ensure all staff have a consistent understanding of the key principles around learning disability and autism. Even if you have previously completed specialist training, this programme helps establish a shared foundation across the workforce.
For those working in specialist roles or with additional responsibilities, further training may still be needed to fully support your role. Employers are responsible for identifying and providing any additional training required.
The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism requires both parts of the training to be completed (the eLearning and the interactive online or face to face session).
The eLearning is a valuable resource and we encourage everyone to access it as soon as possible. The eLearning is a vital first step (Part 1) to give staff knowledge and skills to help change culture and improve lives now.
Part 2 of The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training (the interactive online and the face-to-face sessions) makes reference to the eLearning package and participants need to recall information from the eLearning during part 2 of the training.
Ideally part 1 and part 2 will be completed within days of each other. In circumstances where as much as 6 months have elapsed, we ask participants to refresh their memory ahead of the interactive or face to face session.
📧 Contact us at info@olivermcgowanacademy.com and we’ll help you identify the most appropriate training pathway for your team.
Still have a question?
Email us at info@olivermcgowanacademy.com or send an enquiry and we will get back to you promptly.
