A Train the Trainer model is a workforce development approach that enables organisations to develop their own internal training capacity rather than relying on external providers. It creates a sustainable workforce by developing experienced practitioners who can support the ongoing training of future staff while maintaining consistent programme quality and standards.

Both models help organisations build sustainable workforce capacity, but they achieve this in different ways.

The Standard Train the Trainer model develops accredited face-to-face trainers who go on to deliver future Instructor Training within your organisation.

The Cascade Training model develops local mentors and implementation leads who support future instructors while Hands on Babies delivers the curriculum through a bespoke online learning platform.

The Standard Train the Trainer model is ideal for organisations wanting to build their own team of accredited face-to-face trainers and deliver future Instructor Training internally.

Cascade Training is ideal for organisations looking to expand workforce capacity through online learning supported by local mentoring, without developing a team of face-to-face trainers.

We are always happy to discuss your workforce plans and recommend the most appropriate model.

Our workforce development models have been developed specifically for Family Hubs, NHS Trusts, Health Visiting Services, Local Authorities, Children's Centres, Early Years Services, Voluntary and Community Organisations and Start for Life Partnerships.

Both workforce development models are available across all three Hands on Babies programmes:

• Pregnancy Bonding Programme
• Baby Massage Instructor Training
• Baby Yoga Instructor Training

Organisations can commission individual programmes or combine all three to create an integrated 1001 Days workforce pathway.

Yes. Many organisations choose to commission all three programmes together to create a continuous workforce pathway supporting families from pregnancy through to toddlerhood. This integrated approach helps deliver consistent evidence-based support throughout the First 1001 Days. 

Hands on Babies remains responsible for assessment, accreditation and quality assurance regardless of which workforce development model you choose.

This ensures every instructor achieves the same nationally recognised standards while giving organisations the flexibility to develop their own workforce

All programmes are supported through central quality assurance provided by Hands on Babies. This includes assessment, accreditation, programme governance, resource updates, ongoing professional support and continued programme development.

This depends on the workforce development model you choose and your organisational goals.

The Standard Train the Trainer model is typically developed through four successive Instructor Training cohorts of 10 staff.

The Cascade Training model begins with a single Instructor Training cohort of 10 before developing a bespoke online learning pathway and local mentoring network.

We can advise on the most appropriate implementation plan for your organisation.

Yes. Every organisation is different. We work closely with commissioners to develop a workforce development plan that reflects your services, workforce structure, delivery model and strategic priorities.

Both models help organisations build sustainable workforce capacity, reduce long-term training costs, develop internal expertise, improve service consistency and expand evidence-based support for families while maintaining nationally recognised quality standards.

Hands on Babies has more than 18 years' experience supporting Family Hubs, NHS services and early years organisations. Our Pregnancy Bonding, Baby Massage and Baby Yoga programmes have been delivered by hundreds of practitioners across the UK and are supported by ongoing assessment, accreditation, quality assurance and professional support.

Because Hands on Babies retains the curriculum, assessment, accreditation and quality assurance, organisations can continue developing new practitioners through their chosen workforce development model. We also provide ongoing support, ensuring workforce knowledge is maintained over time and reducing the impact of staff turnover.