Case Study: An SCQF Learning Journey – WEA Scotland Pilots their Credit Rated Science Course

“An Introduction to Science in Everyday Life” - SCQF Level 4 with 3 SCQF Credit Points.

The Awarding Body

The project aim is to get those who are facing difficulty in over coming the barriers they are facing to employment. It doesn’t just focus on creating cvs and cover letters but looks at the whole process holistically.

The advocacy service is for those who may be having problems finding the appropriate service for their needs, for those who may not be understanding any paper work they have received or for folk who need help contacting the relevant people in, for example, the housing department of the local council. It is also a service that offers advice and signposting.

Financial Literacies sessions help learners deal with the financial transactions they come across in their day-to-day lives, including understanding payslips, credit card costs, paying bills, and an overview of in- and out-of-work benefits. Designed around the needs, interests and numeracy levels of learners, these classes take some of the stress out of money-management.

The WEA has developed practical numeracy based training for charity shop volunteers to help increase charity shop surpluses and develop skills for everyday life and the retail sector

The aim of the project is to support Syrian New Scots settled in North Ayrshire to build a life in Scotland. The focus of the project is Employability..

The programme set out to provide intensive English language support to integrate into North Ayrshire life and communities but also allow refugees to consider employment as a realistic medium to long term prospect. It also recognises the value of English learning within the context of skills development and appropriate work experience.

To assist participating learners improve their English language and communication skills and help with employability and integration. Learners could for example include migrant workers needing to understand the language of their workplace and communities.

While COVID 19 has brought its share of challenges, Education Coordinator for the Women in the Highlands Project: Harriet Tay, outlines a number of benefits that have materialised from the delivery of virtual learning

WEA Highland are working with the Highland Council Employability team and Invergordon Job Centre to provide 1-1 Employability support and mentoring to people who are long term unemployed. Many of these clients have long term health issues, low or no qualifications, lack confidence and motivation and have had poor levels of engagement with Job Centre staff. Our support is improving outcomes for these learners.

‘Survival English ESOL’ is a flexible programme aiming to equip those possessing basic language abilities with essential English skills. We encourage social connections and familiarity with local community and culture.

The programme will build learner confidence to engage in further learning and utilise established relationships with ESOL providers to provide progression routes.