Learning is integrated into all the work we do. Every member of our organisation takes ownership of their own development.
Our Learning Standards (PDF, 550KB) explain how the organisation and your line manager will support you in your ongoing learning journey.
It sets out what is expected of you in return, including when you may need to use our Learning Agreement (PDF, 161KB).
What we offer
We have various systems to help you develop, including:
- My Learning – access new learning opportunities and resources to strengthen your skills
- IT Training and My 365 support
- Performance Development hub – to support you in planning effective development conversations
We do not just offer formal programmes either. A wide range of support is available. This includes:
- a large suite of online training and tools to support learning on demand
- dedicated learning events and campaigns throughout the year
- 'LearnFest' our flagship annual celebration of learning across ECC. Watch the highlights for LearnFest 2023
- apprenticeships ranging from entry level to post graduate (L2 to L7) for both new and existing colleagues, regardless of age or experience
- support and guidance to access professional qualifications (support is subject to your line manager's and/or budget holder's approval, funded by functional budgets)
- support from subject matter experts
- the opportunity to share your own expertise to up-skill colleagues
- supporting the development of skills, talent and retention in functions
- executive coaching
- coaching and mentoring
We are constantly increasing the learning and development opportunities we offer to the organisation. Make sure you frequently check My Learning to find the latest resources, sessions and development opportunities available for you, including:
- Leadership development - learning resources to support leadership development from entry level roles to senior managers (search for ‘leadership development’ in My Learning)
- Management development - clarifying what it means to be a manager at the council and providing resources to enable all our managers to meet those expectations (search for 'management development' in My Learning)
- Onboarding - learning resources and information to guide the new joiner’s first months and support their line managers to provide the right experience
- Organisational capabilities - learning resources to support the development of critical capabilities for the council, for example change management and continuous improvement
- Mandatory training - all staff (including temporary and fixed-term contracts) are required to complete our corporate governance training courses and take refresher courses every two years - there are currently seven corporate governance training modules and they are required to be refreshed every two years
Other learning opportunities
There are many learning providers that also offer e-learning courses that may help develop your skills and knowledge.
Social care
The Essex Social Care Academy (ESCA) provides the opportunity to improve professional excellence and drive up standards to deliver high-quality practice in social care.
Safeguarding
The Essex Safeguarding Adult Board (ESAB) learning and development offer includes courses to give you the skills and awareness to help safeguard adults.
The Essex Safeguarding Children’s Board (ESCB) learning and development offer includes courses on early help, working together and effective support for children and families in Essex, and lead for safeguarding children training.
Additional learning
Get in touch with us
If you have any questions or require further support, please raise a ticket through the Assyst portal or send an email to learning.ecc@essex.gov.uk.