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Lift Off To Language
- Professionals and Clinicians
- Training and workshops
- Speech, language and communication
This workshop is for professionals only
Lift Off To Language is a speech and language programme designed to support the communication and interaction skills of young children in early years and Key Stage 1 settings. The programme uses a group format with an emphasis on embedding supportive practice in daily routines.
Following the training, practitioners will be supported to embed the approach within their setting through a quality accreditation visit.
This programme was developed by Bedfordshire and Luton Children's Speech and Language Therapy Service.
Aim of this workshop
- Build confidence in delivering the Lift Off to Language programme
- Use inclusive, evidence-informed strategies to support communication at universal and targeted levels
- Create environments that support social interactions, understanding, and expressive language.
Entry criteria
The workshop is designed for professionals working alongside children:
- aged 3 to 5 years old in early years settings such as nursery, preschool, and childminders
- aged 4 to 5 years old in reception class
- aged 5 to 7 years old in KS1 (available in some areas).
Workshop dates
Workshops include a pack of session plans and supporting materials. The Key Stage 1 workshop also includes a DVD.
Please note that availability may vary across Bedfordshire and Luton, and some workshops may not be offered in all areas.
These workshops are free. If you’re unable to attend, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to others. In line with our policy, non-attendance may incur a fee.
2 years old
Bedford Borough
Only available to people working in Bedford Borough.
Dates: Tuesday 22 September 2026
Times: 1pm to 3:30pm
Location: Queen's Park Family Hub, Marlborough Rd, Bedford MK40 4LE.
Central Bedfordshire
Only available to people working in Central Bedfordshire.
Dates: Tuesday 29 September 2026
Times: 9:30am to 11am
Location: Virtual
If you work in Central Bedfordshire, you will need to log into the e-learning portal Learning Central to access the workshop. Read more about Learning Central.
Book on this workshop on Learning Central. Please note, this link will only work if you are logged into Learning Central.
Luton
Only available to people working in Luton.
Dates: Tuesday 10 November 2026
Times: 10am to 12pm
Location: Virtual
To book onto this workshop, email flyingstarttraining@eyalliance.org.uk.
3 to 5 years old
Bedford Borough
Only available to people working in Bedford Borough.
Dates: Tuesday 22 September 2026
Times: 1pm to 3:30pm
Location: Queen's Park Family Hub, Marlborough Rd, Bedford MK40 4LE
Central Bedfordshire
Only available to people working in Central Bedfordshire.
Dates: Wednesday 21 October 2026
Times: 9:30am to 11am
Location: Virtual
If you work in Central Bedfordshire, you will need to log into the e-learning portal Learning Central to access the workshop. Read more about Learning Central.
Book on this workshop on Learning Central. Please note, this link will only work if you are logged into Learning Central.
Luton
Only available to people working in Luton.
Dates: Tuesday 10 November 2026
Times: 10am to 12pm
Location: Virtual
To book onto this workshop, email flyingstart@eyalliance.org.uk
5 to 7 years old (key stage 1)
Bedford Borough
Only available to people working in Bedford Borough.
Dates: No current dates available
Access to resources
If you have already completed any of the 'Lift Off To Language' courses and would like to access the materials, please email: eec.beds.childrens-slt-ecst@nhs.net
Last reviewed: 1 November, 2024
