Built in 2012, Wandsworth Professional Development Centre (WPDC) is a fresh, smart, environment for professional learning in Wandsworth. The purpose-built centre combines contemporary architecture with flexible room spaces, making it the smart choice for professional development events and meetings. The operations team assist with every event, offering support to trainers and welcoming all visitors.
Elizabeth Souter
Wandsworth’s Head of Service for Children Looked After and Care Leavers
Wandsworth Borough Council
Why WPDC?
We use it a lot for training. It allows 80-100 of us to come together for a service morning, thinking and talking about the work we do and to be the best we can be. Some of my staff are based at the town hall, and also satellite offices, so they don’t see each other often. Our work is all linked and related, so knowing what each other is doing is important.
What was it like?
We use the space to think and build morale. Since the pandemic, spending time together doesn’t happen that often. It might sound like simple things, but having a space that is modern and clean, where everything works and people are on hand to help you set up is really important. WPDC helps people focus on why they are there because the environment is conducive to concentration and comfort – the things you need to not be distracted.
Florence Clark
Workforce Development Manager
Wandsworth Children’s Social Care Academy
Wandsworth Borough Council
Why WPDC?
It’s a really nice, big bright space so it feels like a bit of a treat to go there, tucked away in the borough. The front desk staff are on hand to help with IT support, microphones, PowerPoint etc. We have meeting rooms in our building, but you couldn’t get any support if equipment wasn’t working, and the tables/chairs are not laid out.
What was it like?
They’re not there to just check you in. We had an event in January which ended up with 70 (not the expected 40) and the WPDC staff bought extra sandwiches and cakes so we could cater for everyone. They’ll also liaise directly with the trainers that we commission to arrange the room, looking at different options for communal areas and break out space. I find if you need a room, and they are all booked up, they will often liaise to fit you in. If we want to order lunch they take care of that.
Sarah Anderson
Governor Services Clerk
Smart School Services
Wandsworth Borough Council
Why WPDC?
For head teachers to come out of a school environment (eg, for conferences, pupil referrals, etc) and into a neutral meeting room can make a big difference.
What was it like?
Of all the meeting rooms across all the councils it’s the very best to go to. It’s always clean, the toilets are pristine and everybody is so helpful. They are more than willing to set rooms up ahead of the meeting and help with IT, even for people who haven’t a Scooby-Doo about what they are doing. And if you need something printed out you know that the printer has got paper in it. It’s set out like a work meeting space and run along those principles. The ladies are super helpful and professional and always willing to help out. That’s why I like it, you don’t feel like you are on your own.
To find out more about Wandsworth Professional Development Centre.
