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.
Lizzie Haynes
Mediator and Trainer
LH Mediation
Why WPDC?
We do a lot of work with Richmond and Wandsworth council. The council asked Wandsworth Mediation Service if they’d deliver work on reducing parental conflict to the teams who deal with parents and children.
What was it like?
It’s a very calm, modern space. We used the Putney room for nine training courses. It has all the technical stuff you need – multi-media projector, laptops and large projection screens, plus flip charts and pens. For a trainer, you can simply attach your computer and start your PowerPoint slides. The rooms are spacious with great windows and a fantastic views of trees. Staff are accommodating to any of your needs or any questions. Break out spaces in the lounge are lovely with a desk to plug in your own computer to do work pre or post course. It’s very congenial – we ordered in tea, biscuits and filtered coffee. There’s also a water dispenser.
Michele Beute
Mediator and Trainer
LH Mediation
Why WPDC?
Wandsworth Professional Development Centre was booked by the council who use it for various forms of training.
What was it like?
I was unfamiliar with their IT set up – something as simple as switching from one laptop to another – but the staff calmly step in to show you what to do. I’ve worked in places where you have flip-over tables and you see trainees distracted, dropping things on floor, but here there are larger tables. In training you have different room set-ups and at WPDC they are willing to facilitate any design: that makes life incredibly easy. As a trainer you don’t go in and fret because they ask you beforehand (with a needs analysis) about how many flip charts you need and where you want tables and chairs… Lorna’s the face of the centre, but all the WPDC staff were so keen to meet the needs of both trainers and participants.
Mark Holliday
Deputy Head of Education
Inclusion and Participation
Wandsworth Children’s Services
Why WPDC?
I use it for more important training/CPD-type meetings, and also for events, because the building is so well-maintained, contemporary, clean and tidy, and the front of house staff are amazingly helpful and friendly. The options for layout of the room and the flexibility is really helpful. Before a meeting, or event, the rooms are always well laid out, and there’s always someone to help you with the IT if you need support setting up a presentation. When holding important meetings and events you need that reassurance.
What was it like?
It is tucked away, which makes it a nice, serene environment which lends itself well to learning, being based on a school site. It’s not so far from Earlsfield train station, and bus routes run directly past. In terms of how meetings run – strategically – what is of huge benefit is that it is uncluttered and contemporary. A physical space that allows for thinking space.
To find out more about Wandsworth Professional Development Centre.
