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Enhancing Learning – towards a skilled and qualified workforce Alison O'Brien (K&A Associates). What Ofsted found.
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Enhancing Learning – towards a skilled and qualified workforceAlison O'Brien (K&A Associates)
What Ofsted found “Too few young people with learning difficulties and/or disabilities progress from school to complete programmes of learning in post-16 settings which develop greater independence; lead to further study, supported or open employment; or provide skills for independent living” Ofsted : Progression post-16 for learners with learning difficulties and/or disabilities August 2011
To improve life chances we need • Learning which is personalised and relevant • Delivered in practical and realistic environments • Clarity about what we are teaching, why, where and how • Appropriate objectives supported by clear guidance • Effective recording mechanisms, so we can track progress and impact • Above all, a well trained and capable workforce
Resources which can help • LSIS funded the Enhancement of Learning support (ELS) project to identify and address the training and development needs of learning support staff and those who manage them. • Issues and solutions identified in collaboration with practitioners. • Resulted in the development of a suite of resources and materials which can support providers to develop staff skills and confidence, including using them to support the delivery of the specialist qualifications
Context for the ELS • Undertaken in partnership by Natspec and AoC • Learning Support Staff Reference Group • Learner Reference Group • Supported by JISC TechDis
Learning Support – the national context • Some very effective practice But.... • Significant variation in status of the role • Often poorly managed within the classroom or learning setting • The role of learning support too often interpreted as meaning one to one classroom support
Learning Support – the national context A workforce eager to be trained. But.... • Limited training opportunities • Too often focused on compliance • Insufficient training in specialist skills to develop the role
What Ofsted Found • Providers are developing specialisms, but Ofsted found “the range and availability of specialist training for staff were variable” • “the roles of the support staff on mainstream courses had gradually evolved into specialists who enabled learners to develop strategies for learning, rather than primarily assisting in the classroom.” Ofsted : Progression post-16 for learners with learning difficulties and/or disabilities August 2011
How can the ELS materials help you? A suite of resources and materials which include: • Profile tool • Audit tool • Alternative approaches to CPD • Career structure and progression • Using technology to promote learning and independence • Creating approaches to maximising independence • Website – Standards and Qualifications • Much more!.....
Thank youAlison O’Brienalison.obrien@kandaassociates.co.ukwww.kandaassociates.co.uk