At CERN, we’re pushing the boundaries of knowledge and learning every day. But it isn’t every day that you learn you should be more like a giraffe...

It turns out that giraffes have a connection to a new CERN training course on nonviolent communication (NVC), which starts this November. NVC helps people to share perspectives without judgment or blame, and it’s sometimes called “giraffe language”. The giraffe is used as a symbol of empathy and connection, as it has the largest heart of any land animal, while its long neck gives it perspective.

But this is just one of the hundreds of learning options on offer – whether it’s face-to-face learning in the newly renovated training centre, online courses (including an online coaching hub for leadership development) or access to e-learning platforms such as UDEMY for CERN or SecureFlag.

CERN’s Learning and Development team continuously develop their learning portfolio, working with subject-matter experts and responding to the emerging needs of the Organization. In addition, they organise Micro-Talks, with the next one –  “Mastering digital wellbeing: Take control of your online life” – planned for 19 September. They also provide news each month via the Departmental Training Officers and regular updates on their Mattermost channel.

The recent Work Well Feel Well article highlighted the importance of committing to making meaningful changes, however small – and developing a new learning habit can be a great way to kickstart this. So let’s go back to school, take charge of our own learning and development and explore what’s on offer at the CERN Learning Hub.