National Progression Awards Conference March 2009 Making Connections through Playwork and Childcare at South Lanarkshire College

Presenters Annemarie Wynn Course Leader NPA- Playwork and Childcare South Lanarkshire College Jennifer Hughes Lecturer in Care South Lanarkshire College Heather Lamont NPA Student South Lanarkshire College

Rationale NPA awards are vocational awards designed to help people for: Employment Career Development Progression to Further Study

The Project Challenges Barriers Difficulties Removed Student Backgrounds Employment Opportunities Scottish Social Services Council

Course Design Classroom Placement Practical learning, written and research work

Partnership Arrangements Routes to Work South Recruitment South Lanarkshire Community Engagement South Lanarkshire Council European Social Fund Fairer Scotland Funding Local Community Centres

Delivery Approaches Venues Interviews Enhanced Disclosure Experienced and Sympathetic Staff Guidance Tutor Induction Programme Placement Resources

Evaluation Strong Links with Partners Impact on Lives Employment Lifelong Learning Number Completing Course External Evaluation

Building on Success Course continuing in other centres due to employer’s demands Students continuing their lifelong learning Students continue to work as volunteers in placement

Quotes “Course in community setting is ideal, local, very friendly, internet access excellent.” Margaret Callaghan-student “Lecturers are friendly, helpful and motivational.” Margaret Fellows-student “The programme has been set out and explained very well.” Heather Lamont-student “I feel we are doing well and able to work as part of a team.” Margaret McCardle-student “I will take more students if they are of the same calibre that you have already sent me.” Christine Pepper-High Flyers After School Care-employer “I have offered your student employment at the end of her course, as she has been so good.” Three Bears Nursery- employer

Learning is Fun

Jennifer Hughes Lecturer in Early Education and Childcare

Background Staff Experiences Staff Enthusiasm

Placement Types of Placement Student Participation Student Experience

Students

Student Achievement Recognised Award Practical Experience Confidence Friendships Future Progression

FUN!

Heather Lamont PDA Playwork and Childcare student

Positive Attractions Location Informal Relaxed

Challenges Confidence Education Self esteem

Personal Achievement Qualification Heightened Self Esteem Left Comfort Zone Friendships Further Study/Lifelong Learning