Training

Oliver McGowan Training: Tier 1 or Tier 2?

October 2026 · 2 min read

The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training has two tiers. Choosing the right one for each role keeps you compliant and makes sure staff get training that is useful to them.

Illustration of a diverse group of people holding a banner
Choose the tier that fits each role.

Tier 1

General awareness. For staff who need an introduction to what learning disability and autism mean, and how to communicate and support people respectfully. Part 1 eLearning plus a 1-hour live webinar (Part 2).

Tier 2

For staff who provide care and support. A separate course from Tier 1, with deeper understanding, reasonable adjustments and practical approaches. eLearning (Part 1) plus a one-day face-to-face session (Part 2).

How to decide

  • List the roles in your organisation and think about how much contact each has with autistic people and people with a learning disability.
  • Roles that may need to provide care and support will usually need Tier 2.
  • Roles needing general awareness will usually need Tier 1.
  • If you are unsure, check the latest national guidance and your commissioners' expectations, or ask us.

Planning ahead

Both tiers need learners to complete Part 1 eLearning first, so allow time for that before the live session. We deliver Tier 2 in-house and on-site, Tier 1 as a live webinar, and we offer preferential rates for charities.

Want to know more?Our friendly team is happy to help.
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