Why the training matters

As a Panel Member, you’ll be part of children’s hearings, where important legal decisions are made to support children and young people.

It’s a rewarding role, but it also carries real responsibility.

You’ll sometimes be working with difficult and sensitive topics, and part of the role is being able to have challenging conversations, where emotions in the room may be high.

But throughout your training, you’ll be supported in developing those skills.

The commitment

The Pre-service programme includes seven full training days, delivered either weekly, fortnightly or three-weekly. You can find our 2027 training dates and locations here.

But the commitment goes beyond those sessions.

Between each training day, you’ll spend a significant amount of time learning independently working through reading and online materials. This is a blend of e-learning modules, videos and podcasts.

As a Panel Member you’ll regularly be asked to read large volumes of information, sometimes hundreds of pages.

Our training will support you to learn how to pick out what’s most important.

It’s an intensive programme, and it does take time, focus, and dedication.

But you won’t be doing it alone.

Support and community

You’ll train as part of a cohort, building relationships and supporting each other along the way.

You’ll also be guided by experienced trainers and serving Panel Members, called Learning Academy Facilitators, who understand the journey you’re on.

There’s always support available.

Using the Learning Academy

Throughout your Pre-service training, you’ll attend in-person sessions and use the Learning Academy, our online learning platform.

This is where you’ll access your materials, complete activities, and build your knowledge as you go.

You don’t need to be an expert in digital systems, but it’s important that you feel comfortable using online tools.

You will be invited to an induction session where you will learn the basics but if you need any additional support or upskilling, just ask.

How you'll learn

You’ll combine independent learning with interactive training days.

You’ll build your understanding in your own time, then come together to put it into practice.

Through realistic hearings simulation, you’ll develop the skills needed for the role, including how to manage discussions, ask questions, and make decisions as part of a panel.

The realities of being a Panel Member

As a Panel Member, you’ll work as part of a team, listening, discussing, and contributing to the hearing, however, you will make independent decisions.

The role asks you to think carefully, contribute confidently, and take responsibility for the decision-making process.

Each part of the Pre-service programme builds your confidence.

You’ll learn:

• what happens before a hearing

• how hearings are managed

• how to communicate effectively

• how to make and explain decisions

That includes learning how to clearly explain complex and sometimes difficult outcomes, including decisions about keeping children safe. For example, this could mean deciding where a child should live and who they should spend time with.

We understand this can be one of the most challenging parts of the role, and it’s something you’ll be supported to develop throughout your training.

You’ll also take part in simulated hearings, complete assessments, and observe a real hearing.

Making a difference

Becoming a Panel Member is a commitment, and it will take time and effort, but the training is there to guide you through it.

By the end, you’ll feel prepared, capable, and ready to take on the role.

And once you’re qualified, your learning doesn’t stop. You’ll continue to take part in mandatory training and development*, with ongoing support to help you grow in confidence and experience. 

Because at the heart of everything you’ll do to become a Panel Member is the goal of achieving positive outcomes for children and young people across Scotland.

*These sessions are normally held in the evenings or at the weekends, or through self-directed learning on our online portal.