Thank you for the responses so far.

I think there is a bit of everything in my need that you have all tried to answer.

Whilst I agree that there is a risk that others will log others into training - this is exactly as is the case today.  I would argue that not doing for the many because of the risk of a few is not productive.  even if there was risk, we would be able to revert when required to paper (dread the thought).

We have asked for an additional option to be added to the attendance page - arrived -  not ideal but would allow ipads to be used at reception areas to allow attendees to mark themselves as arrived.  As long as the take attendance tab was unlocked say 60 minutes before an event began.

In an ideal world we should have the flexibility to allow staff to self-arrive and self certificate that they attended.  I know this might sound like too much for some people but I think if you consider the absolute best most holistic approach and then work back.

Does Totara link in with any sign in apps?  I have seen a few that offer a digital sign in service, including google?

This is a absolute must for me - I need to find a workable solution that removes the need for printed sign in sheets