Free accessibility training courses 2026
- Apr 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 22
There are a range of free online resources available to help you keep your knowledge about inclusion, disability, and assistive technologies up to date.
If you're certified by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals, you'll typically need to earn 45 Continuing Accessibility Education Credits every three years to maintain your credentials.
1. Technical and digital accessibility training
Essential for accessibility professionals focusing on code, platforms, and assistive technologies.
Google Developer Program
The Google Developer Program: Learn Accessibility will help you to develop technical skills such as HTML and ARIA. Google describes it as "an evergreen accessibility course and reference to level up your web development".
Microsoft Accessibility training
Microsoft Accessibility Resources & Training offers comprehensive training on accessibility features built into the Microsoft 365 suite of applications. Watch a sample video from Microsoft's 'inclusive learning experiences' course.
Dolphin Guide Connect training
Dolphin Guide Connect training offer courses for assessors, educators, and trainers who use their assistive technology solutions. The courses are free, CPD accredited, and you'll be awarded a certificate and digital badge on successful completion. Watch an introduction video explaining Dolphin's Guide Connect Training offer.
AbilityNet webinars for accessibility professionals
AbilityNet Webinars are free and cover a range of topics of relevance to digital accessibility professionals. You can also watch free recordings of past webinars (complete with transcripts). AbilityNet also has an excellent Podcast which means you can learn whilst on the go (available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts).
2. Sight loss and low vision awareness training
RNIB sight loss awareness training
RNIB offer a free, CPD-accredited, e-learning course called Understanding Sight Loss for Employment Professionals. It takes about 40 minutes to complete and is delivered online.
Thomas Pocklington Trust awareness training
The Thomas Pocklington Trust offer a range of training videos to help raise awareness and understanding around sight loss and low vision. Watch a sample video from The Thomas Pocklington Trust podcast, 'Through our Eyes'.
3. Deaf and hard of hearing awareness training
Communicating well with Deaf people
UCL provide a free online course called 'Working and Communicating well with Deaf people'. It takes around 1.5 hours to complete.
Course content covers:
the importance of deaf awareness
different experiences of deafness and hearing loss
a historical look back through history and how attitudes and policies impact deaf people
why equal access is important
guidance on good communication and adjustments related to deafness.
4. Dexterity and mobility accessibility training
My Computer My Way training
If you want to learn more about the different ways people with access needs use their computer (and may interact with any interfaces you develop), access My Computer My Way (from AbilityNet).
Voice recognition awareness
For a detailed guide on how people use speech to operate their Windows computer, complete the Accessibility Supported course on Voice Access. There's a series of 7 videos and if you have a Windows 11 computer, you can enable Voice Access and try it for yourself for an immersive learning experience.
5. Learning disability and neurodiversity awareness
Understanding dyslexia, from the Open University
For a deeper understanding of dyslexia, that will earn you a digital badge and statement of participation, complete Understanding Dyslexia from the Open University. It takes 24 hours of study and is free of charge.
Exploring Learning Disabilities, from the Open University
The Open University also offer a CPD accredited course called Exploring Learning Disabilities. This will earn you a digital badge and statement of participation.
Dyslexia training, from Microsoft
Microsoft provide free Dyslexia training, in partnership with Made By Dyslexia. This campaign aims to empower every school across the world to #TakeADayForDyslexia. In just one day, teachers (and parents) can take Made By Dyslexia’s transformative trainings and learn how to spot, support, and empower every dyslexic child. Watch a sample video about Microsoft's Made by Dyslexia course.
Keeping your knowledge up to date
Assistive technology is more readily available than ever. Keeping your knowledge about what different people need, and the range of technologies they use is just as accessible.
Many free online courses also provide you with the digital certificates and statements of participation you need to retain your certification from the International Association of Accessibility Professionals.
