Simon Coulthard December 03, 2024
Did you know that human error is the number one cause of data breaches?
This figure from the Association of Corporate Counsel is striking, and underlines how important regular GDPR training is for businesses.
And while the law doesn’t explicitly mandate training, it holds organizations accountable for ensuring employees understand their responsibilities in safeguarding personal data.
Fortunately, there’s no shortage of quality courses that align with GDPR training requirements and equip teams with the knowledge they need.
This article explores why GDPR training is crucial for businesses and highlights the following ten exceptional courses that will help empower teams and strengthen compliance efforts.
- GDPR & Data Protection Act 2018 Staff Awareness E-learning by IT Governance.
- GDPR Training Course by Training Express.
- General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for Individuals by SC Training.
- Certified EU GDPR Foundation and Practitioner by The Knowledge Academy.
- Introduction to GDPR by Computer Law Training.
- EU GDPR Foundations Course by Advisera.
- Understand the GDPR and Regional European Data Protection Laws by IAPP.
- GDPR EU Training by iHasco.
- GDPR Foundation and Practitioner by Firebrand.
- GDPR Foundation by PECB.
Click on any of these links to jump straight down to the training course that interests you or scroll on to learn more about these vital educational tools.
GDPR employee training isn’t just about ticking boxes for peace of mind or meeting ESG criteria; it’s a fundamental shift toward prioritizing trust in the digital landscape.
With personal data now a cornerstone of most business operations, ensuring its protection is no longer optional - it’s essential.
Employees often underestimate the weight of their actions in safeguarding data. A single misstep, like clicking on a suspicious email or mishandling customer information, can trigger significant financial penalties and irreparable damage to a company’s reputation.
GDPR training bridges this gap by turning theoretical knowledge into practical skills.
It’s not enough for employees to know the basics of GDPR or data privacy; they must embody its principles in their daily work.
Training empowers them to identify risks, respond effectively to potential breaches, and integrate privacy-first thinking into routine decisions. From managing consent forms to securely handling sensitive data, employees learn how to operationalize GDPR requirements in real time.
Moreover, effective GDPR compliance training fosters a culture where privacy isn’t seen as a compliance burden but as a shared responsibility and competitive advantage.
It transforms abstract regulations into meaningful actions that not only protect customer rights - often overlooked in recent years - but also foster stronger relationships.
By moving from passive awareness to active engagement, organizations can ensure every team member becomes a vital link in the chain of compliance. This proactive approach doesn’t just mitigate risks - it strengthens the company’s resilience in a fast-evolving regulatory landscape.
When it comes to privacy and security and all the other things that feed into data protection, employees are more than just participants.
Instead, they're the frontline defense in a company’s commitment to privacy and transforming them into privacy champions is the key to building a robust culture of compliance.
Every interaction someone has with personal data represents an opportunity to safeguard privacy or, conversely, a potential point of failure or access point in a data breach.
By offering GDPR training for employees, businesses empower them to go beyond the bare minimum and take ownership of compliance efforts.
Privacy champions understand that protecting data is not limited to IT teams or compliance officers. It’s a shared duty that spans every department, from marketing teams managing customer preferences to HR handling sensitive employee records.
With proper training, employees learn to identify risks, escalate concerns, and implement proactive measures that align with GDPR standards.
More importantly, this approach fosters a sense of pride and accountability. Employees become advocates for privacy not just because it’s required but because they recognize its intrinsic value to the company’s success and reputation.
They start to view data protection as a reflection of ethical business practices and a cornerstone of trust with clients and customers.
By embedding privacy-first thinking into the company’s DNA, businesses don’t just comply with regulations - they thrive in a competitive market that increasingly values transparency and respect for personal data.
Empowered employees drive this transformation, turning compliance from a checklist into a strategic advantage.
Not all GDPR training programs are created equal. To make a lasting impact, the training must go beyond surface-level information and equip employees with practical, actionable knowledge.
A standout program starts with clarity.
Complex legal jargon is simplified into relatable scenarios, ensuring employees understand how GDPR applies to their specific roles. Whether handling customer data in sales or managing vendor contracts in procurement, employees need examples that resonate with their daily tasks.
Interactivity is another hallmark of effective training.
Passive learning rarely sticks. Look for programs that include real-world case studies, quizzes, and role-playing exercises to help employees practice identifying risks and making data-conscious decisions. Engaging formats - like videos, webinars, and hands-on workshops - keep the content dynamic and memorable.
Customization is equally critical.
One-size-fits-all training won’t address the unique data challenges of different industries or departments. A tailored approach ensures that each employee receives guidance relevant to their role, empowering them to apply GDPR principles confidently.
Lastly, the best training programs don’t end with the session.
They include ongoing support, resources, and refresher courses to keep employees updated on evolving regulations and best practices. GDPR compliance is an ongoing process, and training should reflect that continuity.
By choosing a program with these features, businesses can ensure their employees are not just informed but fully prepared to champion privacy in every aspect of their work.
Provider: IT Governance
Visit the IT Governance Course Page
IT Governance specializes in helping organizations achieve GDPR compliance and build resilience in today’s regulatory landscape. With expertise in data protection, cyber resilience, and internationally recognized standards like ISO 27001 and PCI DSS, IT Governance provides tailored training solutions to safeguard personal data and meet legal obligations.
Their "Protect - Comply - Thrive" approach fosters a culture of privacy and security while ensuring organizations meet compliance standards. With a proven track record, including assisting over 400 companies in achieving ISO 27001 certification, IT Governance delivers expert-led solutions that align with business needs.
Company Trustpilot rating: 4.6/5 (279 reviews).
“Really efficient and simple ordering process with the material/content delivered within just a few hours. The course provides a good introduction to GDPR and it is now part of our induction process for new staff members. Additionally, the content enabled the team to have a better understanding of GDPR and their responsibilities when handling personal information. This style of this online gdpr training course also enabled the team to access the course at a time to suit them. Totally recommended way of delivering high quality instruction and value for money!!”
- Jenny
The GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 Staff Awareness E-learning Course equips employees, including non-technical staff, with the skills to process personal data responsibly and comply with legal requirements.
While the course is paid, its alignment with legal requirements, scalability, and focus on fostering accountability make it one of the best GDPR training courses available for businesses. IT Governance also offers additional e-learning options, such as compliance staff awareness and distance learning courses, for tailored training solutions.
Provider: Training Express Ltd
Visit the Training Express Course Page
Training Express is a trusted name in workplace compliance training, offering a wide range of accredited courses tailored to meet modern organizational needs. Known for engaging audiovisual learning, Training Express equips teams with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in key compliance areas like GDPR, safeguarding, and health and safety.
Their flexible delivery methods - including interactive animations and video modules - make learning accessible and impactful. With a user-friendly dashboard and dedicated account managers, businesses can easily track team progress and meet compliance goals.
Company Trustpilot rating: 4.3/5 (581 reviews).
REVIEWS.io rating: 4.8/5 (829 reviews).
“I thoroughly enjoyed the course and learnt an amazing amount of new information. The course was excellent value for money. The support throughout and after the course was way above my expectations. Well done to all concerned! I definitely recommend this course and Training Express to anyone looking to further their knowledge with online learning. The site was easy to navigate and operate. I will be back soon for another course!”
- Francois Erasmus
The GDPR Training Course by Training Express is a CPD-accredited online program designed for professionals responsible for handling personal data or managing GDPR compliance.
This GDPR staff awareness training course is perfect for professionals and businesses aiming to ensure GDPR compliance while building confidence in handling sensitive personal data effectively.
Provider: SC Training
Visit the SC Training Course Page
SC Training (formerly EdApp) is redefining workplace learning by ensuring every individual has access to high-quality training that drives success. Focused on empowering businesses, NGOs, and community organizations, SC Training goes beyond compliance to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences.
Their innovative approach, which includes mobile-first design and customizable modules, ensures training is accessible and impactful. By equipping teams with essential knowledge, SC Training helps organizations improve performance, foster growth, and achieve their goals.
Company G2 rating: 4.7/5 (218 reviews).
TrustRadius rating: 9.2/10 (6 reviews).
Our super convenient solution for a compliance course needed for staff.
"It was daunting for me to think of drafting all of the material from scratch and creating a graphically engaging course from which our employees would actually learn and retain important info. A quick google search landed me on EdApp. The website explained the product clearly and succinctly, and also made tailoring its already compliant content to our specific company easy. The courses are simple for employees to access, and I have a 100% completion rate - no chasing anyone down. The analytics make it easy to see where the areas for improvement need to be with staff. For the next round of courses, I'll start using the fun engagement incentives they offer as well. Their tech support was responsive and knowledgable - which sold me from the start."
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for Individuals course is a free, mobile-first program tailored to educate individuals about GDPR and their rights over personal data. Designed for flexibility, it allows learners to engage at their own pace, making it ideal for busy professionals and organizations alike.
This free GDPR training course delivers a highly engaging and practical introduction to legal principles, fostering awareness and empowering learners to navigate data protection confidently in a privacy-conscious world.
Provider: The Knowledge Academy
Visit the Knowledge Academy Course Page
The Knowledge Academy is a global leader in professional training, trusted by industry giants like Honda, Panasonic, and Fujitsu. With expertise in IT, project management, and business management, they have trained over one million delegates worldwide since 2009. Their flexible delivery methods - classroom sessions, online learning, on-site programs, and self-paced courses - ensure accessibility for diverse learners.
Company Trustpilot rating: 4.5/5 (45,461 reviews).
REVIEWS.IO rating: 5/5 (3 reviews).
GDPR 4 day foundation and practitioner course
“Excellent course! The teacher, Andre, kept the class engaged throughout and encouraged discussions of applicable cases to the class's current roles and how it impacts us. The learning was both enjoyable and beneficial, im confident in what I have learnt and where to go for advice if I have any future queries. Overall, and most importantly, I feel confident in returning to my company as a DPO moving forward.”- Jessica Holan
The Certified EU GDPR Foundation and Practitioner course by The Knowledge Academy equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to navigate GDPR compliance. Ideal for data privacy professionals, governance specialists, and compliance officers, this course combines foundational principles with advanced practical applications.
This four-day course is tailored for professionals looking to excel in GDPR compliance and take on key roles, such as Data Protection Officer (DPO), ensuring their organizations meet stringent data protection regulations.
Provider: Computer Law Training
Computer Law Training specializes in expert-led data protection training and consultancy, helping organizations comply with GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Their offerings include on-demand courses, bespoke programs, and tailored sessions for charities and third-sector organizations, many endorsed by Training Qualifications UK (TQUK).
In addition to training, their consultancy services - such as data protection audits and policy development - empower businesses to protect sensitive data and achieve compliance effectively.
Company findcourses.co.uk rating: 4.9/5 (19 reviews).
“Just a massive thanks for what was, pound for pound, the best CPD hours I’ve done during 10 years’ practice in 5 different jurisdictions. Lots of enormously helpful stuff for me to bring back to the company. I have three years’ in-house experience dealing with client-facing multinational data protection issues.”
- Trevor Fenton
The Introduction to GDPR course by Computer Law Training is a three-and-a-half-hour GDPR training online program that delivers a concise yet comprehensive foundation in GDPR compliance.
This GDPR training course serves as an accessible introduction for professionals new to GDPR while also preparing them for advanced training, such as the Data Protection (GDPR) Practitioner Certificate or Data Protection for Medical Research and Clinical Trials course. It’s a practical, cost-effective option for those seeking to build a solid foundation in data protection compliance.
Provider: Advisera
Visit the Advisera Course Page
Advisera has been simplifying compliance since 2009, providing software, documentation, and training to help businesses implement standards like GDPR, ISO 27001, and ISO 9001. With a focus on clarity and practicality, Advisera empowers organizations to navigate complex regulatory requirements confidently and efficiently.
Company Trustpilot rating: 3.8/5 (4 reviews).
REVIEWS.io rating: 4.8/5 (109 reviews).
“Excellent and clear content and captivating presentation. Reading resources are provided and gets you interacting with the GDPR, and the articles are insightful and relevant. The content is segmented into modules and units with the main content being delivered visually using videos and graphics. The videos are usually short which will ensure you do not lose focus and the content is very concise and not overwhelming. Wonderful job to the Team!”
- Krystelle
The EU GDPR Foundations course by Advisera is an 8-hour, self-paced online program tailored for beginners seeking a strong understanding of GDPR principles and compliance.
This course is ideal for professionals and beginners looking to build a solid GDPR foundation while gaining credentials to advance their careers in data protection.
Provider: International Association of Privacy Professionals
The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) is the world’s largest and most comprehensive global information privacy community. Dedicated to advancing privacy as a profession, the IAPP equips individuals and organizations with the tools, resources, and certifications needed to navigate complex regulations like GDPR confidently.
Company Trustpilot rating: 3.0/5 (2 reviews).
“Thank you for putting together a great online CIPP/E training. As a beginner in data privacy and data protection, the course has equipped me with the necessary knowledge to pass the CIPP/E exam in the first attempt! The 34-page summary is an excellent study tool. The 3 practice exams at the end of the course are very similar to the exam format and prepared me well for the exam. I would strongly recommend this online training course to anyone new to data privacy/protection or who is looking to enhance their GDPR knowledge.”
- Carmen K
The Understand the GDPR and Regional European Data Protection Laws course by IAPP provides expert-led training for professionals navigating GDPR and other European privacy frameworks. Delivered in English, French, and German, it aligns with the globally recognized CIPP/E certification, making it ideal for advancing privacy expertise.
This GDPR training course is ideal for data protection officers, compliance managers, and privacy professionals looking to build expertise in GDPR and related European privacy laws, providing the knowledge and tools needed to excel in this rapidly evolving field.
Provider: iHasco
Visit the iHasco GDPR EU Training Course Page
iHASCO is a leading provider of eLearning solutions, specializing in Health & Safety, HR, and Business Compliance training. With a library of over 180 accredited courses, iHASCO empowers organizations to deliver high-quality workplace training that fosters employee well-being, compliance, and professional growth.
Company Trustpilot rating: 4.6/5 (2,417 reviews).
Very clear and understable
"This online course was clear and easy to understand. The presenter spoke clearly and the summary of each part was highlighted in words at the end of each section. There was the opportunity to go back and listen again to the video if you felt the need. The questions were quite tough and you really needed to understand what had been taught in order to answer them correctly."- April Sly
The GDPR EU Training course by iHASCO is an IIRSM-approved program designed to help individuals and organizations handle personal data responsibly while achieving GDPR compliance. With over 400,000 participants trained, it is a trusted solution for businesses aiming to foster a culture of compliance.
This course equips participants with the tools and knowledge to manage data securely and confidently, ensuring compliance with GDPR regulations while fostering accountability within their organizations.
Provider: Firebrand
Visit the Firebrand Course Page
Firebrand is a global leader in Accelerated Learning, offering intensive training programs that help professionals gain certifications faster than traditional methods. With courses running seven days a week and 12-hour days, Firebrand has trained over 125,000 students worldwide, delivering fast, effective solutions for IT and project management certifications.
Beyond its accelerated approach, Firebrand makes professional development accessible with funded training options like apprenticeships and 12-week skills bootcamps, accommodating budgets of all sizes.
Company My Springest course rating: 7.3/10 (3 reviews).
“Training was fast paced and engaging, the instructor was great, he made pretty dry material worth learning. I did Pass the exam – its 3 hours long and the time goes in a flash !!! everything you need is taught, you are not taught to pass the exam, however, everything you need to understand is covered. Great course, great material (you need a big bag to carry it all home). Real world training that is immediately applicable. Accommodation and food was great, snacks and drink also provided all day. You start studying as soon as you get there, long days, into early evening, it is non-stop, however, if you are taking this course you are serious about what you are doing !!! I can’t recommend this course and Firebrand highly enough, I will be back for more.”
- Marcus Swift
The GDPR Foundation and Practitioner course by Firebrand is a four-day accelerated program designed for senior executives, governance practitioners, auditors, and data privacy consultants. Combining in-depth learning with real-world applications, it equips professionals with the skills to implement GDPR compliance effectively.
This course is tailored for professionals serious about mastering GDPR compliance, offering actionable strategies and the credentials needed to excel in today’s fast-paced regulatory environment.
Provider: PECB
The Professional Evaluation and Certification Board (PECB) is a globally recognized certification body, offering education and certifications in over 150 countries. Specializing in fields like information security, governance, risk, and privacy, PECB empowers individuals and organizations to excel in compliance and data protection. Backed by accreditations from IAS, UKAS, and ANAB, and a network of over 1,600 partners, PECB delivers trusted, high-quality training worldwide.
Company Trustpilot rating: 3.9/5 (10 reviews).
PECB Surpasses Expectations
“PECB went above and beyond my expectations with their outstanding training material and instructors. The registration process for the training course was straightforward, and the assistance provided throughout was exceptional.”- Tutti
The GDPR Foundation Course by PECB provides a comprehensive introduction to GDPR, offering practical insights for individuals involved in data protection, information security, or those starting careers in privacy.
This course is perfect for anyone looking to gain a strong foundation in GDPR and earn a globally respected certification. With PECB’s expert instructors and exceptional training resources, participants leave equipped to navigate data protection challenges confidently.
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