New PACE E-learning – The problem with traditional training
Ofsted often says training needs to be more accessible and flexible. The ideal is always that whole teams can attend live training sessions together, where they can both learn and discuss how the knowledge will be applied within their organisation. Ofsted, however, does not look favourably on training being postponed until a date when everyone is available and will not tolerate levels of care being impacted because whole teams are in training and unavailable to service users.
Particularly in residential care, there simply isn’t always space for a collective 3-hour training session.
So what actually works?
From what we’re seeing across services, and what Ofsted seem to be pushing for, training needs to:
- Fit into the natural rhythm of the day.
- Be immediately usable.
- Be available on demand.
This is where micro and bite-sized learning comes in.
What are the short e-learning options?
Micro-learning breaks training down into focused 5–10 minute modules.
Bitesized learning enables staff to zoom in on particular topics for up to 50 minutes.
That means staff can:
- Learn something during a handover.
- Watch a quick video during a tea break.
- Pick up a strategy in less than an hour and use it immediately.
Why it works (especially under Ofsted pressure)
1. It removes the accessibility barrier
No waiting. No scheduling. No delays for new starters.
2. It builds confidence quickly
Staff feel instantly better equipped, reducing overwhelm.
3. It improves consistency of care
Everyone can access the same learning, at the same standard, anytime.
4. It supports real-world application
Learn a de-escalation approach… and use it five minutes later
It is also cost-effective.
At just £5-15 per module per person, it also becomes:
- Scalable across teams
- Easy to roll out quickly
- Sustainable within tight budgets
Where this fits into the bigger picture
Micro & Bitesized learning is just one part of a much bigger shift.
Because while quick learning is powerful, it’s not the whole solution.
To meet Ofsted expectations fully, services also need:
- Opportunities to consolidate learning
- Space to deepen understanding
- Ways to evidence ongoing development
That’s exactly what we’ll explore next.
