Training Programme
Training For Clerks, Officers, Councillors & Chairs
Stepping into the role of a councillor or council officer can be challenging – but the right training makes all the difference. Our expert-led sessions are designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence you need to succeed.
Our flexible training programme is tailored specifically for town and parish councils. Most sessions are delivered remotely, making them easily accessible to councils across the country. Clients of Mulberry Local Authority Services also benefit from discounted rates.
We recognise that advertised dates and locations may not always be convenient. For this reason, all training courses and modules can also be delivered as bespoke sessions for individual councils. Please visit our Bespoke Training page for further details.
The Training Team
Celia Price FSLCC, BA Hons Community Governance
Celia has considerable clerking experience and is also a Fellow of the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC), where she serves as a branch officer and clerk mentor, offering guidance and peer support to fellow professionals.
Specialises in Clerks and Councillors training.
Andy Beams CiLCA
Following a 20 year career in financial services, Andy has worked in the sector since 2010 and has vast experience working as a clerk and RFO for a range of councils in the southeast of England.
Andy is an internal auditor, provides specialist consultancy support services to councils and mentors new clerks.
Specialising in Finance for Councillors and Officers.
Mark Mulberry BA (Hons) FCCA CTA
Mark qualified as a Chartered Certified Accountant in 2001, going on to become a Chartered Tax Advisor in 2004, and was admitted to the Fellowship of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants in 2006.
Mark is highly experienced in accounts, internal audit and taxation and also serves SAAAP panel.
Specialising in VAT, Charity Trustee and promoting good practice in audit standards.
Finance & Specialist Training
Targeted training for councillors, clerks, and officers.
Focused sessions covering finance and other specialist areas essential to effective council operations.
Aim
To strengthen financial understanding and specialist knowledge, enabling confident, compliant, and effective practice across roles.
GDPR Essentials for Local Councils
A focused and practical session designed to demystify GDPR for clerks and councillors.
This short workshop builds confidence in handling personal data lawfully, understanding your responsibilities as a public authority, and avoiding common compliance pitfalls.
Participants will leave with clear, actionable steps to strengthen their council’s data protection practices and reduce organisational risk.
💻 Live on MS Teams | £30 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £45 + VAT
Strategic Plans
A practical and motivating session for councils ready to move from reactive decision‑making to purposeful long‑term planning.
Participants will explore how to shape a clear strategic vision, align priorities with community needs, and create a plan that genuinely guides budgeting, projects, and governance.
This session supports clerks and councillors to become confident strategic thinkers capable of driving sustainable, well‑structured progress.
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Elections & Councillor Vacancies: Essential Training for Clerks
A focused 45-minute session (plus 15 minutes for questions) giving Clerks the confidence to manage elections, casual vacancies and co-options lawfully. Suitable for:
✅ Clerks & Officers
✅ Anyone needing a refresher
✔️ Statutory notices and timelines
✔️ Common pitfalls
✔️ Pre-election restrictions
✔️ Working with your Elections Team
💻 Live on MS Teams | £30 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-member rate: £45 + VAT
Community Engagement
An engaging session exploring how councils can build trust, improve transparency, and create meaningful two‑way communication with their communities.
Ideal for clerks and councillors seeking practical tools, this workshop covers engagement methods, managing expectations, navigating difficult voices, and designing inclusive approaches that reflect the diverse needs of local residents.
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Year-End Finance and AGAR Completion
This practical training course is designed to help council officers confidently manage the year-end financial procedures and complete the Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR).
Participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to ensure their council's year-end accounts and AGAR are compliant, accurate, and ready for audit and public scrutiny.
💻 Live on Zoom | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-member rate: £65 + VAT
Understanding Procurement & Tendering: Navigating Council Contract Procedures
A 90-minute online training session, suitable for:
✅ Officers involved in advertising works on behalf of the council
✅ Those looking to understand the latest NALC Financial Regulations updates
✔️ Procurement exercises – Key steps & best practices
✔️ Tender processes – From advertising to evaluation
✔️ Awarding contracts – Ensuring compliance & fairness
✔️ NALC model Financial Regulations – Understanding recent updates
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
New Clerks Training Programme
Professional Development Programme for Local Council Clerks
Level 1 – Operational Confidence for New Clerks
CPD: 2 sessions = 1 CPD point
A comprehensive introduction designed to give new clerks the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to perform their role effectively. This programme covers everything from governance and lawful decision-making to managing meetings and understanding the wider local government context.
Recommended for
Clerks with less than 2 years’ experience.
Aim
To equip new clerks with the practical tools, knowledge, and professional confidence required to operate safely, effectively, and in accordance with legal and governance requirements.
Format
MS Teams
Book as a full structured programme or individual standalone sessions
Cost
Full Programme: £200 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients – non-clients £280 + VAT)
Individual Sessions: £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients – non-clients £65 + VAT)
Download Full Details of Clerks Professional Programme Level 1
Professional Development Programme for Local Council Clerks: Level 1 – Full Programme
Session 1 Introduction to the Clerk Role: Thursday 7th January 2027 | 10:30am - midday
Session 2 Running Meetings with Confidence: Thursday 28th January 2027 | 10:30am - midday
Session 3 Finance without Fear: Thursday 11th February 2027 | 10:30am - midday
Session 4 Policies and Procedures: Thursday 25th February 2027 | 10:30am - midday
Session 5 Avoiding Common Mistakes: Thursday 4th March 2027 | 10:30am - midday
💻 Live on MS Teams | £200 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £280 + VAT
Clerks Session 1.1: Introduction to the Clerk Role
✅ Understanding your role – key responsibilities and expectations
✅ Working relationships – maintaining professional boundaries with the Chair and councillors
✅ Early priorities – what to focus on in your first few months
✅ Common pitfalls – how to recognise and avoid typical challenges
✅ Statutory duties – your core legal responsibilities
✅ Support and networking – where to go for help, advice, and peer support
✅ The bigger picture – where parish councils fit within the wider local government structure
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Clerks Session 1.2: Running Meetings with Confidence
✅ Agenda preparation – creating and publishing clear, compliant agendas
✅ Supporting documentation – organising reports and background papers effectively
✅ Decision-making clarity – drafting precise and lawful resolutions
✅ Public participation – managing engagement professionally and fairly
✅ Advising the Chair – providing guidance during challenging situations
✅ Lawful intervention – knowing when and how to step in appropriately
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Clerks Session 1.3: Finance without Fear
✅ Budget fundamentals – understanding budgets and the precept process
✅ Internal controls – maintaining transparency and accountability
✅ Bookkeeping basics – keeping accurate and up-to-date records
✅ The AGAR – understanding its purpose and importance
✅ Risk awareness – spotting potential financial issues early
✅ Seeking support – recognising when and where to ask for help
✅ Building confidence – developing a practical approach to council finance
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Clerks Session 1.4: Policies and Procedures
✅ Standing Orders – understanding and applying procedural rules
✅ Financial Regulations – ensuring proper financial governance
✅ Data protection – meeting GDPR requirements in practice
✅ Code of Conduct – promoting standards and managing behaviour
✅ Essential policies – identifying what your council needs in place
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Clerks Session 1.5: Avoiding Common Mistakes
✅ Minutes not hours - how to manage your time effectively
✅ Roles and responsibilities – avoiding overstepping delegated authority
✅ Decision-making risks – recognising informal or unlawful practices
✅ Record keeping – maintaining accurate, secure, and accessible records
✅ Councillor vacancies – understanding the correct process to follow
✅ Learning from errors – identifying and addressing issues early
✅ Building resilience – developing confidence to handle challenges effectively
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Advanced Clerks Training Programme
Professional Development Programme for Local Council Clerks
Level 2 – Advanced Clerk Practice
CPD: 2 sessions = 1 CPD point
Designed for more experienced clerks, this programme builds on core knowledge to develop confident governance practitioners. It focuses on strategic thinking, legal awareness, and the ability to provide sound professional advice in complex situations.
Recommended for
Clerks with two or more years’ experience in role.
Aim
To develop experienced clerks into confident governance practitioners capable of providing strategic advice, managing risk, and responding effectively to complex challenges.
Format
MS Teams
Book as a full structured programme or individual standalone sessions
Cost
Full Programme: £120 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients – non-clients £170 + VAT)
Individual Sessions: £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients – non-clients £65 + VAT)
Download Full Details of Clerks Professional Development Programme Level 2
Professional Development Programme for Local Council Clerks: Level 2 – Full Programme
Session 1 Governance and Legal Risk: Wednesday 21st October 2026 | 10:30am - midday
Session 2 Strategic Financial Leadership: Wednesday 11th November 2026 | 10:30am - midday
Session 3 Professional Development: Wednesday 2nd December 2026 | 10:30am - midday
💻 Live on MS Teams | £120 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £170 + VAT
Clerks Session 2.1: Governance and Legal Risk
✅ Understanding delegation frameworks and how they operate in practice
✅ Reviewing council structures and governance arrangements
✅ Managing and responding to complaints effectively
✅ Maintaining professional neutrality in challenging situations
✅ Navigating political sensitivities with confidence and professionalism
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Clerks Session 2.2: Strategic Financial Leadership
✅ Understanding and contributing to the Strategic Plan
✅ Developing and managing a Reserves Strategy
✅ Supporting and overseeing capital projects
✅ Embedding risk management into financial planning and decision-making
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Clerks Session 2.3: Professional Development
✅ Building professional resilience in a demanding role
✅ Planning for career progression and continued development
✅ Improving digital efficiency and modern working practices
✅ Staying informed on sector developments and emerging issues
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Councillors Training Programme
Everything a councillor needs to succeed in their first year and beyond.
Build the knowledge and confidence required for effective participation, lawful decision-making, and understanding the local government sector.
Aim
To give councillors the clarity and confidence they need to be effective in their communities.
Format
MS Teams
Book as a full, structured programme or individual standalone sessions.
Full Programme: £120 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients – non-clients £170 + VAT)
Individual Sessions: £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients – non-clients £65 + VAT)
The programme can also be booked for a whole council at a cost of £675 + VAT (plus travel costs if in-person) – please contact anna@mulberrylas.co.uk to book this option
Download Full Details of Councillors Training Programme 2026-27
Councillors Training Programme – Full Programme
Commencing Wednesday 21st October 2026
Session 1 Understanding the Role of Councillor and Working as a Council: Wednesday 21st October 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Session 2 Meetings and Good Decision Making : Wednesday 18th November 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Session 3 Finance and Governance: Wednesday 16th December 2026 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Commencing Thursday 21st January 2027
Session 1 Understanding the Role of Councillor and Working as a Council: Thursday 21st January 2027 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Session 2 Meetings and Good Decision Making : Thursday 18th February 2027 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Session 3 Finance and Governance: Thursday 18th March 2027 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm
💻 Live on MS Teams | £120 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £170 + VAT
Councillors Session 1: Understanding the Role of Councillor and Working as a Council
✅ What a parish/town council is – powers, duties and limits
✅ The councillor role – expectations, code of conduct, corporate responsibility
✅ Boundaries, behaviours and pitfalls
✅ The Chairs role and how to support them
✅ How decisions are made lawfully
✅ Statutory duties
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Councillors Session 2: Meetings and Good Decision-Making
✅ Council Structure – committees, working groups, benefits and pitfalls of committees/working groups
✅ ‘Types’ of meeting
✅ Preparing for a meeting
✅ Attendance
✅ Speaking confidently and constructively
✅ How to propose motions and amendments
✅ Voting
✅ Public participation
✅ Confidential sessions
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-member rate: £65 + VAT
Councillors Session 3: Council Finance and Governance
✅ Basics of council finance – budget, precept, AGAR
✅ Internal controls – including Standing Orders and Financial Regulations and why they matter
✅ Key policies
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-member rate: £65 + VAT
Chairs Training
Master the art of chairing meetings with this 90-minute online training session.
Suitable for:
✅ Existing Chairs – Refine your leadership skills
✅ Aspiring Chairs – Prepare for a future leadership role
What you’ll learn:
✔️ Roles & responsibilities – Chairing a council vs. a committee
✔️ Meeting management – Running efficient & productive meetings
✔️ Handling conflict – Maintaining control & diplomacy
✔️ Decision-making – Ensuring fair and lawful processes
✔️ Council as an employer – Understanding HR responsibilities
💻 Live on MS Teams | £45 + VAT (Mulberry LAS clients)
💷 Non-client rate: £65 + VAT
Book now
Wednesday 13th January 2027 | 6.30pm - 8.00pmBook now
Tuesday 25th May 2027 | 6.30pm - 8.00pmBook now
Tuesday 15th June 2027 | 6.30pm - 8.00pmBook now
Wednesday 14th July 2027 | 6.30pm - 8.00pmBook now
Wednesday 22nd September 2027 | 6.30pm - 8.00pmBook now
Wednesday 17th November 2027 | 6.30pm - 8.00pmTalk to us
If you have any questions, want to find out more or would like a quote for any of our services, we’re here to help. Get in touch by calling 07724 545699 or clicking on the link below.
