Training in 2009
The introduction in April 2003 of 'Quality Council status' for those Parish and Town Councils wishing to participate carried with it the requirement that Clerks should attain the Certificate (now the CiLCA). Holders of the Local Policy HE Certificate are exempt until 2007.
The National Association of Local Councils and the Countryside Agency produced a National Training Strategy, and in line with this KAPC formed the Kent Training Partnership, of which it is the lead partner. The other partners are Kent RCC, the Society of Local Council Clerks, Mid Kent College and Kent Adult Education Service. The Partnership has already held a 'Preparing your Portfolio' Day and two "three-Block module" days.
Further courses will be scheduled to take place subject to demand. Clerks wishing to register for the Certificate should contact the office for a Registration Form and further details.
Alongside the Training Strategy the Kent Association has agreed its normal training schedule for the year, and in order to take into account the elections in May has organised additional Councillors Days. These one day courses are designed to provide basic guidance and training for new Councillors (although more experienced Councillors are welcome to attend) the Kent Association is once again arranging one day courses for Councillors. These courses are reviewed on a regular basis and updated to include new developments - the law regarding local authorities changes with increasing regularity! They will provide an insight into general procedures and meetings, chairmanship, employment issues and planning and finance, with other subjects presently under consideration.
Gloucester University continues to provide a Local Policy Course. Primarily for Clerks the Course is also open to Councillors and those with an interest in Local Government. KALC administers a grant scheme on behalf of KCC which provides 25% of course costs, plus £100 towards the residential weekends and £100 towards expenses, but this is however only available to Kent Clerks on the Certificate Course.
Training Dates:
- 19th May - Clerk's Training Day - Teynham Village Hall
- 20th June - Councillors' Information Day - Lenham Community Centre
- 29th July - Councillors' Information Day - Lenham Community Centre
- 17th October - Finance Information Day - Lenham Community Centre
The Annual Meeting of the Kent Association of Local Councils - to be held on 14th November 2009 at Ditton CC. will include sessions on items of topical interest.