Officer Development Framework

DAPTC provides training in a mixture of online scheduled courses, accessible at any time e-learning modules and in-person courses and events. Below are all training courses for clerks, officers and employees - they are listed once by subject matter and selecting a course will show all available dates for you to choose from. Each course also shows which part of the Councillor/Officer Development Framework it belongs to.

Prices listed include the 50% discount available to DAPTC member councils. Non DAPTC member councils are welcome to book a place for double the price shown against each course.

Get in touch if your council is interested in bulk purchasing e-learning modules or whole council training on a specified topic. Call 01305 224460 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Picture of a cup of coffee on a table, with the DAPTC logo incorporated

Online events aimed at clerks of smaller parish councils and parish meetings in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking.

Event Date Tue 26 May 2026 16:00 - 17:00
Cut Off Date Tue 26 May 2026 16:00
Available Place 35
Price Free
Location Zoom
Categories Clerk Development, Officer Development Framework
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This course explores best practice for creating an effective communications strategy that fits with the needs and aspirations of your council. Part 1 of 2.

Event Date Mon 1 Jun 2026 10:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Mon 1 Jun 2026 9:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Essentials​, ODF Essentials
Parkinson Partnership logo and course title

This session is for offficers that are involved in procuring goods and services, preparing tenders, or entering into contracts on behalf of local councils.

This session introduces the new rules of the Procurement Act 2023, which came into force on 24 February 2025 and replace the Public Contracts Regulations 2015. The session covers the basics of procurement for local councils – inviting quotes, producing specifications and tender documentation, achieving competition and value for money.

Event Date Tue 2 Jun 2026 10:00 - 11:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories ODF Essentials, CDF Optional
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This course will define "young people" and how to effectively reach and engage them, both on and offline.

Event Date Tue 2 Jun 2026 10:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Tue 2 Jun 2026 9:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Intermediate, ODF Intermediate
Data Protection & GDPR part 1: Foundations & Theory*

This course explores the foundations, theory and core principles of data protection, UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other relevant legislation. Part 1 of 3.

Event Date Mon 8 Jun 2026 10:30 - 12:30
Cut Off Date Mon 8 Jun 2026 9:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Intermediate, Clerk Development, Council Employee Development, ODF Essentials
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This course explains why a strong and recognisable brand identity is key to ensuring your council is seen, heard and valued by the community.

Event Date Wed 10 Jun 2026 9:30 - 11:30
Cut Off Date Wed 10 Jun 2026 8:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Optional
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This course explains the basics of Facebook so you can get started in the right way and improve your council's communication.

Event Date Thu 11 Jun 2026 10:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Thu 11 Jun 2026 9:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories ODF Intermediate
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This course covers how councils demonstrate accountability with data protection and UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) legislation. Part 2 of 3.

Event Date Mon 15 Jun 2026 13:00 - 15:00
Cut Off Date Mon 15 Jun 2026 12:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, Clerk Development, ODF Essentials
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This course provides councillors, officers and employees an understanding for the need of internal controls and how they work, with practical examples and case studies.

Event Date Wed 17 Jun 2026 10:00 - 11:30
Cut Off Date Wed 17 Jun 2026 8:00
Price £35.00 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Essentials​, ODF Essentials
Image to highlight course

This course explores how to achieve regular and positive coverage in your local media and to build effective relationships with journalists.

Event Date Thu 18 Jun 2026 9:30 - 11:30
Cut Off Date Thu 18 Jun 2026 8:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Optional
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This course explores data subject rights and information security under data protection and UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) legislation. Part 3 of 3.

Event Date Mon 22 Jun 2026 10:30 - 12:30
Cut Off Date Mon 22 Jun 2026 9:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Essentials
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This course explores how to get the most from key social media platforms to ensure your social media output supports your council to achieve its goals and aims.

Event Date Thu 25 Jun 2026 10:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Thu 25 Jun 2026 9:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Expert
Image to highlight course

This course explores data subject rights and information security under data protection and UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) legislation. Part 3 of 3.

Event Date Tue 30 Jun 2026 18:30 - 20:30
Cut Off Date Tue 30 Jun 2026 17:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Essentials
Image to highlight course

This course explores the basics of Canva, showing how to get the most out of the free version, and is ideal for those who have never used Canva before. Part 1 of 2.

Event Date Wed 1 Jul 2026 12:30 - 14:30
Cut Off Date Wed 1 Jul 2026 11:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Expert
Price tag with VAT on it

This course is for clerks, finance staff and councillors who already understand the rules of VAT and explains when VAT cannot be reclaimed in relation to exempt activities and what options may be available.

It's ideal for councils that lease or hire out land and buildings such as village halls, community centres, meeting rooms, sports facilities or markets, who need to understand when their council is at risk of not being able to reclaim VAT and vital for any council contemplating major building projects, or incurring significant expenditure on running these facilities.

Event Date Thu 2 Jul 2026 10:00 - 11:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories ODF Intermediate
Picture of a cup of coffee on a table, with the DAPTC logo incorporated

Online events aimed at clerks of smaller parish councils and parish meetings in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking.

Event Date Thu 2 Jul 2026 11:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Thu 2 Jul 2026 11:00
Available Place 46
Price Free
Location Zoom
Categories Clerk Development, Officer Development Framework
Image to highlight course

This course explores the foundations, theory and core principles of data protection, UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other relevant legislation. Part 1 of 3.

Event Date Mon 6 Jul 2026 13:30 - 15:30
Cut Off Date Mon 6 Jul 2026 12:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Intermediate, Clerk Development, Council Employee Development, ODF Essentials
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This course provides those in any council role with an understanding of behaviour, resilience and how to build emotional intelligence.

Event Date Wed 8 Jul 2026 10:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Wed 8 Jul 2026 9:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Leader, ODF Expert
Image to highlight course

This course puts your communication plan into action for effective community engagement and a sustainable approach to reaching the public. Part 2 of 2.

Event Date Thu 9 Jul 2026 13:00 - 15:00
Cut Off Date Thu 9 Jul 2026 12:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Intermediate, ODF Intermediate
Image to highlight course

This course covers how councils demonstrate accountability with data protection and UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) legislation. Part 2 of 3.

Event Date Mon 13 Jul 2026 11:00 - 13:00
Cut Off Date Mon 13 Jul 2026 10:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, Clerk Development, ODF Essentials
Image to highlight course

This course explores the foundations, theory and core principles of data protection, UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other relevant legislation. Part 1 of 3.

Event Date Tue 14 Jul 2026 18:30 - 20:30
Cut Off Date Tue 14 Jul 2026 17:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Intermediate, Clerk Development, Council Employee Development, ODF Essentials
Image to highlight course

This course shows how to get more out of Canva and create complex designs and branding for your council. It is ideal for those who have experience of using Canva. Part 2 of 2.

Event Date Wed 15 Jul 2026 10:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Wed 15 Jul 2026 9:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Optional
Village Hall

In-person events aimed at smaller parish councils in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking at venues around the county.

Event Date Wed 15 Jul 2026 19:00 - 20:30
Cut Off Date Wed 15 Jul 2026 12:00
Available Place 48
Price Free
Location Leigh Village Hall
Categories Member Engagement, Councillor Development Framework, Officer Development Framework

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Parkinson Partnership logo and course title

This session is for offficers that are involved in procuring goods and services, preparing tenders, or entering into contracts on behalf of local councils.

This session introduces the new rules of the Procurement Act 2023, which came into force on 24 February 2025 and replace the Public Contracts Regulations 2015. The session covers the basics of procurement for local councils – inviting quotes, producing specifications and tender documentation, achieving competition and value for money.

Event Date Thu 16 Jul 2026 10:00 - 11:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories ODF Essentials, CDF Optional
Image to highlight course

This course explores data subject rights and information security under data protection and UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) legislation. Part 3 of 3.

Event Date Mon 20 Jul 2026 10:30 - 12:30
Cut Off Date Mon 20 Jul 2026 9:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Essentials
Image to highlight course

This course is aimed at new chairs and vice chairs of councils and committees and to those considering stepping into such roles. It can also act as a refresher to those already in post and with more experience.

Event Date Mon 20 Jul 2026 18:00 - 20:00
Available Place 5
Price £60 - £100
Location Hybrid Meeting
Categories CDF Leader, ODF Optional
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This course provides practical techniques for managing difficult conversations and situations.

Event Date Wed 22 Jul 2026 10:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Wed 22 Jul 2026 9:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Leader, ODF Expert
Image to highlight course

This course provides guidance on what to do when a council finds itself in the eye of a media storm.

Event Date Thu 23 Jul 2026 10:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Thu 23 Jul 2026 9:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Optional
Picture of a cup of coffee on a table, with the DAPTC logo incorporated

Online events aimed at clerks of smaller parish councils and parish meetings in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking.

Event Date Tue 28 Jul 2026 16:00 - 17:00
Cut Off Date Tue 28 Jul 2026 16:00
Available Place 48
Price Free
Location Zoom
Categories Clerk Development, Officer Development Framework
Image to highlight course

This course explores the foundations, theory and core principles of data protection, UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other relevant legislation. Part 1 of 3.

Event Date Mon 3 Aug 2026 10:30 - 12:30
Cut Off Date Mon 3 Aug 2026 9:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Intermediate, Clerk Development, Council Employee Development, ODF Essentials
Image to illustrate course

This course explores best practice for creating an effective communications strategy that fits with the needs and aspirations of your council. Part 1 of 2.

Event Date Tue 4 Aug 2026 10:30 - 12:30
Cut Off Date Tue 4 Aug 2026 9:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Essentials​, ODF Essentials
Image to highlight course

This course covers how councils demonstrate accountability with data protection and UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) legislation. Part 2 of 3.

Event Date Mon 10 Aug 2026 12:30 - 14:30
Cut Off Date Mon 10 Aug 2026 11:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, Clerk Development, ODF Essentials
Image to highlight course

This course explores data subject rights and information security under data protection and UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) legislation. Part 3 of 3.

Event Date Mon 17 Aug 2026 10:30 - 12:30
Cut Off Date Mon 17 Aug 2026 9:30
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Essentials
Image to highlight course

This course puts your communication plan into action for effective community engagement and a sustainable approach to reaching the public. Part 2 of 2.

Event Date Tue 18 Aug 2026 13:00 - 15:00
Cut Off Date Tue 18 Aug 2026 12:00
Price £35 members
Location Online
Categories CDF Intermediate, ODF Intermediate
Picture of a cup of coffee on a table, with the DAPTC logo incorporated

Online events aimed at clerks of smaller parish councils and parish meetings in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking.

Event Date Thu 10 Sep 2026 11:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Thu 10 Sep 2026 11:00
Available Place 50
Price Free
Location Zoom
Categories Clerk Development, Officer Development Framework
Village Hall

In-person events aimed at smaller parish councils in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking at venues around the county.

Event Date Thu 17 Sep 2026 19:00 - 20:30
Cut Off Date Thu 17 Sep 2026 12:00
Available Place 49
Price Free
Location Moreton Village Hall
Categories Member Engagement, Councillor Development Framework, Officer Development Framework

Please login to register for this event

Picture of a cup of coffee on a table, with the DAPTC logo incorporated

Online events aimed at clerks of smaller parish councils and parish meetings in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking.

Event Date Tue 13 Oct 2026 16:00 - 17:00
Cut Off Date Tue 13 Oct 2026 16:00
Available Place 50
Price Free
Location Zoom
Categories Clerk Development, Officer Development Framework
Hand holding card with Code of Conduct printed on it against a dark grey background

Essential for new councillors in order to understand their responsibilities and for existing councillors wanting a refresher on the subject.

Event Date Mon 19 Oct 2026 18:00 - 20:00
Cut Off Date Mon 19 Oct 2026 17:30
Available Place 17
Price £30 for members
Location Online
Categories CDF Essentials​, ODF Optional
Welcome title and lightbulb surrounded by white bolts

An opportunity for new clerks, appointed in 2025, to come together, meet the DAPTC team and learn more about how we can support you in your role.  

Event Date Mon 16 Nov 2026 10:00 - 13:00
Available Place 15
Price Free
Location Pimperne Village Hall
Categories ODF Essentials
Village Hall

In-person events aimed at smaller parish councils in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking at venues around the county.

Event Date Wed 18 Nov 2026 19:00 - 20:30
Cut Off Date Wed 18 Nov 2026 12:00
Available Place 47
Price Free
Location Pimperne Village Hall
Categories Member Engagement, Councillor Development Framework, Officer Development Framework

Please login to register for this event

Picture of a cup of coffee on a table, with the DAPTC logo incorporated

Online events aimed at clerks of smaller parish councils and parish meetings in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking.

Event Date Thu 26 Nov 2026 11:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Thu 26 Nov 2026 11:00
Available Place 49
Price Free
Location Zoom
Categories Clerk Development, Officer Development Framework
Picture of a cup of coffee on a table, with the DAPTC logo incorporated

Online events aimed at clerks of smaller parish councils and parish meetings in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking.

Event Date Tue 12 Jan 2027 16:00 - 17:00
Cut Off Date Tue 12 Jan 2027 16:00
Available Place 49
Price Free
Location Zoom
Categories Clerk Development, Officer Development Framework
Village Hall

In-person events aimed at smaller parish councils in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking at venues around the county.

Event Date Thu 14 Jan 2027 19:00 - 20:30
Cut Off Date Thu 14 Jan 2027 12:00
Available Place 49
Price Free
Location Charminster Community Hall
Categories Member Engagement, Councillor Development Framework, Officer Development Framework

Please login to register for this event

Picture of a cup of coffee on a table, with the DAPTC logo incorporated

Online events aimed at clerks of smaller parish councils and parish meetings in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking.

Event Date Thu 18 Feb 2027 11:00 - 12:00
Cut Off Date Thu 18 Feb 2027 11:00
Available Place 49
Price Free
Location Zoom
Categories Clerk Development, Officer Development Framework
Village Hall

In-person events aimed at smaller parish councils in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking at venues around the county.

Event Date Wed 10 Mar 2027 19:00 - 20:30
Cut Off Date Wed 10 Mar 2027 12:00
Available Place 50
Price Free
Location West Parley Community Hub
Categories Member Engagement, Councillor Development Framework, Officer Development Framework

Please login to register for this event

Picture of a cup of coffee on a table, with the DAPTC logo incorporated

Online events aimed at clerks of smaller parish councils and parish meetings in Dorset, providing topical updates and opportunities for networking.

Event Date Tue 23 Mar 2027 16:00 - 17:00
Cut Off Date Tue 23 Mar 2027 16:00
Available Place 49
Price Free
Location Zoom
Categories Clerk Development, Officer Development Framework
Image to highlight course

This e-learning course includes a range of activities to help you develop your understanding of cyber security, the cyber threat and how to stay safe at work and at home​.

Event Date
Price £15.00
Location E-Learning Course
Categories CDF Essentials​, ODF Essentials
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This e-learning course includes a range of learning activities to help you better understand the importance of password management.

Event Date
Price £15.00
Location E-Learning Course
Categories CDF Essentials​, ODF Essentials
Image to illustrate course

This e-learning course explores the use of Display Screen Equipment (DSE) and how the set up of desks and workstations can have a significant impact on health.

 

Event Date
Price £14.00
Location E-Learning Course
Categories CDF Optional, ODF Essentials
Image to illustrate course

This e-Learning course includes a range of learning activities to help you understand the dangers of phishing attacks. 

Event Date
Price £15.00
Location E-Learning Course
Categories CDF Essentials​, ODF Essentials

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Contact

Telephone: 01305 224460

Member Advice: advice@dorset-aptc.gov.uk
Member Training: training@dorset-aptc.gov.uk
General Enquiries: info@dorset-aptc.gov.uk

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