Information for Current foster Carers

Learning and development workshops

Learning and development workshops are run on a six monthly basis to support carers to build on their strengths, areas of interest and develop knowledge to better care for children. Workshop topics are chosen in consultation with field staff and carers. These workshops are are presented by professionals in their field and are interactive, encouraging carers to actively engage in learning and skill development. Carers are able to enrol in these workshops using the enrolment form which is distributed to all carers bi-annually along with a six monthly training calendar. Upon completion of the course, each participant will receive a certificate.

Foster carer learning and development workshops 2013 

Foster carer development workshops enrolment form

Flexible learning options for relative carers

People learn in a variety of different ways. Some prefer to be part of a group in a workshop session while others prefer one on one learning opportunities in their own homes, or by telephone, web, email or videos etc.
The Department is now catering for these different styles of learning by providing learning materials and opportunities in a range of different modes.

Recognition of prior learning

All foster carers need to demonstrate they are competent in four key areas. To become registered as a foster carer, assessors will identify those areas where applicants are already competent (recognition of prior learning). Where there are gaps in skills and knowledge, assessors as well as trainers will work together to enable applicants to fill these gaps and meet the competency requirements.

Support for carers

The Foster Care Association of Western Australia is an important partner in recruiting, training and supporting foster carers in Western Australia.

Foster Carer Handbook

Financial support information

Foster carer resources 

Foster carer resources (online library)