01482 581000

 

Shaping the Future of Care Through Training: An Interview with Steve Reed

At the heart of exceptional care lies knowledge, compassion, and the confidence to act — all of which start with great training. We caught up with Steve Reed, Head of Learning and Development at HICA, to find out more about the exciting work happening at the HICA Training Academy. From offering specialist courses in First Aid and Dementia Awareness to expanding opportunities for businesses outside the care sector, Steve shares how the Academy is developing talent, raising standards, and empowering individuals at every stage of their careers.

Introduction & Background

  1. Can you tell us a little about your role at HICA and your journey in Learning and Development?
    I’ve been involved in Learning and Development for many years, with a passion for ensuring that people receive the highest quality training to excel in their roles. At HICA, my role involves overseeing the development and delivery of training programs that not only equip our care staff with essential skills but also promote ongoing professional growth. Seeing individuals develop and progress within their careers is incredibly rewarding.
  2. What inspired the creation of the HICA Training Academy?
    The Academy was born from a recognition that exceptional care starts with exceptional training. At HICA, we wanted to create a dedicated space where our teams could gain in-depth knowledge, practical skills, and the confidence to deliver outstanding care. By formalising our training under the Academy, we ensured consistency, excellence, and accessibility to high-quality learning opportunities.

The Academy & Its Expansion

  1. The Academy has been an integral part of training HICA’s care staff. What prompted the decision to expand its services to the corporate sector and individuals?
    We saw an increasing demand for high-quality training beyond our own staff, particularly in sectors where skills like First Aid, Moving and Handling, and Dementia Awareness are highly valuable. By expanding to corporate clients and individuals, we can share our expertise with a broader audience and help raise industry standards more widely.
  2. What courses are currently available, and who can benefit from them?
    Our Academy offers a range of essential courses, including First Aid, Moving and Handling, Dementia Awareness, and Safeguarding. These courses are designed for care professionals, but they are also valuable for businesses looking to upskill their teams, individuals seeking professional development, and even families caring for loved ones.
  3. How does the Academy ensure the highest standards in training?
    We adhere to industry best practices and regulatory requirements, ensuring all courses are delivered by experienced and accredited trainers. We also use a hands-on, interactive approach that blends theoretical learning with practical application. Feedback from learners is a key part of our process, allowing us to continuously refine and improve our training.
  4. Can you share some examples of how the training has positively impacted care professionals and businesses?
    We’ve had numerous success stories, from care staff gaining promotions after completing specialist training to businesses improving their workplace safety through our Moving and Handling courses. One standout example is a care assistant who, after completing our advanced dementia training, completely transformed how they supported residents, leading to noticeable improvements in well-being and engagement.

 The New Academy Facility

  1. What makes the new Academy building special? Are there any standout features?
    The new facility provides an immersive learning experience. It includes state-of-the-art training rooms, fully equipped simulation spaces that replicate real-world care settings, and dedicated areas for hands-on practical learning. This ensures learners can develop their skills in a realistic and supportive environment.

Looking Ahead

  1. How do you see the Academy evolving in the coming years? Are there any new courses or initiatives on the horizon?
    We’re always looking to grow and adapt to industry needs. In the future, we aim to introduce more specialised courses, such as advanced leadership training for care professionals and digital skills for the healthcare sector. We’re also exploring online learning options to make training even more accessible.

09. What message would you give to businesses and individuals considering training at the Academy?
Investing in high-quality training isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about building confidence, improving safety, and enhancing the quality of care and services. Whether you’re a business wanting to upskill your workforce or an individual looking to expand your knowledge, the HICA Training Academy is here to support you every step of the way.

You can contact the Training Academy on 01482 581000 or via info@hica-uk.com.