The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word MESSING
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Getting together for in-service courses" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case getting together for in-service courses = messing.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does MESSING mean?
MESSING verb- (transitive, often used with "up") To make untidy or dirty.
- (transitive, often used with "up") To throw into disorder or to ruin.
- To interfere.
- (used with "with") To screw around with, to bother, to be annoying to.
- To take meals with a mess.
- To belong to a mess.
- To eat (with others).
- To supply with a mess.