Councillor Development
Listed below are courses in a number of different formats for councillors of parish and town councils across Dorset. We provide online, e-learning and in person training as well as events to network at. Take a look from the schedule below and make sure you check with your clerk to make sure you haven't spent the entire training budget!
If your council wish to bulk purchase e-learning modules do get in touch. If you would like to discuss the delivery of one of the courses for the whole council, please call on 01305 224460 and we can discuss what your are looking to do.
Prices listed apply for DAPTC member councils only.
Non DAPTC member councils are welcome to book a place for double the price shown against the training.
Councillors: social media skills
In this session we walk you through the essential ways to get the most out of key social media platforms as a local councillor, what issues to be mindful of, and we provide top tips to engage with your residents.
The Role of Internal Audit
For councillors and officers that want to understand the role of the internal auditor and how to appoint one. (Please note, this is NOT a training session for people who want to undertake internal audits)
How councils can engage effectively with young people in their communities
In this session we explore what we actually mean by the term ‘young people’, what issues matter to different groups of younger people and how to effectively reach and engage them, both online and offline
Introduction to VAT
This session is for clerks, finance staff and councillors. It explains how VAT rules affects local councils, focussing on those that are not VAT registered, but reclaim VAT using Form VAT126. Essential for any council contemplating major building projects
Communicating with your community Part 1: Creating a communications strategy
Learn how to create a public communications strategy that supports the delivery of your council’s priorities, aims and objectives.
Dealing with difficult people and conversations in our local councils
In this session we explore practical techniques to manage difficult conversations and situations in a council environment.
Internal Controls
This session gives councillors and officers an understanding of the need for internal controls and how they work, with practical examples and case studies.
Finance for Councillors
This session is for councillors only and is designed to give them a greater understanding of their duties with regard to the council’s finances.
Latest National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) revisions
NEW UPDATE SESSION FOR 2025
This webinar will outline the key aspects of the government reforms contained in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and more generally that will have implications for local councils and explore how they are likely to work in practice.
Recruiting and retaining councillors
Learn effective ways to raise awareness and interest in the work of the council, in order to better promote and demystify the role of a councillor.
Finance for Councillors
This session is for councillors only and is designed to give them a greater understanding of their duties with regard to the council’s finances.
Getting the most from local and regional media
For councillors, clerks/RFO's and officers.
VAT - Partial Exemption
For clerks, finance staff and councillors of 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.
Essential for any council contemplating major building projects, or incurring significant expenditure on running these facilities.
A Basic Introduction to Planning
Ideal for new councillors recently in role, or for returning councillors wanting a refresher course. This course may benefit new to role clerks and members of their team where they have one.
Some recent feedback from delegates attending this course:
“Presentation was very clear and didn’t presume any prior knowledge. The trainer was happy to take questions throughout”
“This was a good refresher for me, packed with useful information and with excellent examples”
“Andrew’s delivery of the information was the best I have attended so far, clear, informative with memorable examples that make the principles stick in the mind”
Crisis Communications for Local Councils
This session takes participants through the detail of preparing for any crisis. We pass on expert tips and guidance on being prepared, and cover the effective steps your council could take should the worst happen.
Freedom of Information for local councils: obligations, procedures and exemptions
This course looks at what requirements and obligations local councils have when it comes to Freedom of Information.
