The Institute of Family Therapy has completed the first wave of training in the Tri-Borough area of Westminster, Hammersmith and Fulham and The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. The Focus on Practice team arranged a graduation ceremony on the 9th of June for all of those who have completed their courses, both practice and supervision courses. The ceremony was held in Kensington Town Hall with opening speeches by Clare Chamberlain, Director of Family Services, RBKC for the Tri-Borough and Barbara McKay for the Institute of Family Therapy. Clare was a leading voice in creating opportunities for training and maintained her enthusiasm throughout. She also attended systemic training in her own right with the rest of the Leadership team.

The whole event was uplifting with lots of enthusiasm for the achievements at all levels of the agencies.  These first graduates from the courses are now a fantastic resource for others to follow and will provide the impetus for sustainability which is the next phase of the development. Many of the graduates wish to apply for the Intermediate course which is part of the training initiative and it seems that places will be in great demand.

The afternoon was completed with tea and cakes in an informal setting to encourage networking between staff in the three boroughs and to make links for future practice. The whole event was very well received and a good opportunity to mark the success of large numbers of staff who found time and commitment to complete demanding training courses.

Congratulations to all for the resounding success.

Barbara McKay