Workplace learners completing vocational qualifications sometimes struggle with the ICT and written aspects of their vocational courses. WEA tutors can come into the workplace and provide literacies and ICT support at a time and in a place that works for learners.
Many Scottish workers complete formal qualifications in their own workplaces and during working hours. However, some struggle with aspects of the course, especially those parts that do not form a regular part of their role. For example, those who don’t use ICT in their occupation may find themselves struggling to submit assignments online or to keep up with online forums or homework assignments. The support of a WEA tutor can make a huge difference in such circumstances.
For almost a decade, WEA tutors have provided literacy and ICT support to workers completing an SVQ Level 2 in Health and Social Care. Group and 1-2-1 support has seen learners’ confidence grow as they share their problems with not only the tutor but the group, gaining peer support in the process and forming their own communities of learning. In the past, WEA tutors have identified learners with possible additional learning needs, referring them to tutors with the skills-set to offer informal dyslexia screenings and dedicated follow-up support.
WEA tutors have also worked in factories offering Adult Apprenticeships. Part of this delivery, in conjunction with Union Learning Reps at Glasgow’s largest employer of apprentices, and funded by Scottish Union Learning, has included helping candidates get ready for the Glasgow City Council pre-apprenticeship skills tests. Other provision has involved regular project-based literacies and ICT support in the workplace, delivered in the right place and at the right time to break down barriers to participation.
If you’d like to set up your own WEA Learning Circle, or want to find out more about start-up sessions, please email Bex Walker: [email protected]