Acknowledgements:          

University of Hertfordshire

“Routes to Lifelong Learning” (NFWI/DfEE 1999)

The pack is jointly produced with the University of Cambridge Board  of Continuing Education

People have many reasons for wanting to learn more. You may want to: broaden your mind; enrich your life; increase your confidence; improve the way you feel about yourself; change the way others see you; improve your job prospects or get some qualifications. You may have finished a WEA course, and wish to pursue the subject further.

There are many different ways in which you can continue your learning,. Deciding what you want to do, which way of learning, and how to go about it, can be daunting. The first step is to look at yourself, and your needs, and take it from there.

You could do anything, and there is a lot of help available to help you choose. This pack contains some general ideas about what there is to choose from, and contact addresses and numbers, both local and national, where you can get information, advice and guidance if you need it.

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There are many ways of learning, both formal and informal, in a classroom or in all sorts of other places. If you are not sure what you would like to do next, it is worth asking yourself some questions about ways of learning that might suit you:

·      Would you prefer to learn by yourself - perhaps working through a course at home when you have some spare time?

·      Are there set times when you would like to learn? Such as evenings, weekdays, or school holidays?

·      Would you like to learn with a group of others, often meeting new people?

·      Would you prefer to learn with a group of colleagues at work, or with members of an organisation or club that you belong to?

·      What about a course which takes you outdoors or on visits to other places?

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When you have decided what kind of course you would like to do, you may need the answers to the following questions:

·      Who do I need to talk to about the course? How do I contact him or her? Is this person the tutor? Can I speak to a current student if I wish?

·      Do I need prior experience or knowledge to do the course? What are the entry requirements for adults?

·      What will I learn on the course? May I have a copy of the syllabus? How is the course taught? (e.g. in small / large groups, through self-study packs)

·      Does the course involve any commitment other than taught sessions? (e.g. homework, field or practical work)

·      How long is the course and when does it start and finish? What are the weekly hours of attendance?

·      Will I get a certificate or qualification if I complete it, and how will my work be assessed? (e.g. through coursework, examination, being observed)

·      What are the fees and extra costs of the course? (e.g. registration fees, materials, examination fees)

·      Are there any fee remissions or concessions, and what are they?  Can I pay in instalments?

·      Where does the course take place? How do I get there? Can I park my car? Can you help me plan a bus route?

·      What room should I look for when I arrive? Can I get my wheelchair in?

·      Are there any facilities for students with disabilities? (e.g. hearing loops, learning partner schemes)

·      Is there a crèche or playgroup?

·      Are there any study or recreational facilities for adults?

·      How many places are available on the course? How and when do I enrol?

·      What do I need for the first session?

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Talking to friends, family, neighbours, colleagues and to other WEA students and tutors can spark off all sorts of ideas which you could follow up. Your local library or Citizen’s Advice Bureau will keep information about learning opportunities. Your local paper may carry information about education roadshows or open evenings at colleges or community centres.

However, you may feel you need some help in deciding what you would like to do, or in checking that you have all the information you need.

Included in this section is a list of agencies who offer information and guidance about opportunities for adults in Essex. If you live in another county please contact Lesley Haughton at the WEA District office for a list.

WHAT DO GUIDANCE WORKERS DO?

If you are clear about what you would like to know, they will be able to tell you where to find information in order to make your choice, and to help you check that you have all the details you need in order to make sure that the course or opportunity is right for you.

If you are not sure, they are used to helping people to think through their needs and aims, and to plan what steps they will need to take next. Although some guidance agencies are mainly concerned with vocational guidance, and some are mainly knowledgeable about courses run by their own institution, they will all be able to offer some help about where you can find out what you need to know.

WHERE DO YOU FIND THEM?

Guidance is offered by an often bewildering range of  individuals and agencies, and  there is, at the moment, no single, easily recognisable source which can be found in all local areas.  However, this is changing and the government is funding the development of free information and advice services for all adults.  A lot should happen in 2000-2001.  In the meantime, don’t be put off!

AGENCIES WHO OFFER INFORMATION AND GUIDANCE TO ADULTS ABOUT LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

This is a general guide to agencies who offer guidance. Contact names and numbers for Essex follow later in this section

CAREERS SERVICES

Most careers services around the country are now run by private companies. They often have individual local names but in the coming year, services to young people will be known as “Connexions”.  As well as providing free careers advice to young people, you will find that many careers services have an advisory service for adults. All offices have a range of information on offer about education and training opportunities as well as jobs.

Although you will usually need to make an appointment if you want to talk through your education or training needs, there is nothing to stop you calling in and browsing round their library. Most services have offices in main towns, and sub-offices in smaller places.

TRAINING AND ENTERPRISE COUNCILS (TECs)

This is the last year in which TECs will exist.  Many of their functions will be absorbed into the new Learning and Skills Council during the coming year.  They are independent bodies led by local business people in partnership with the public and voluntary sectors. They can give information and advice on training both for adults and young people, including advice on setting up your own business. They are also responsible for government training programmes for people who are unemployed or who want to return to work after a break, and for funding other training schemes.

Most TECs run or co-ordinate a service especially geared to adults who want advice about careers, education, training or employment. Sometimes these are “high street shops” set up to give information and advice on training and learning opportunities. Many TECs operate a Helpline service for adults, usually on a Freephone number, from which referrals are made to other local services. So, do telephone them and ask if they can help with your enquiry. If they can’t, it is very likely that they will know someone who can!

TRAINING ACCESS POINTS (TAP)

Training Access Points provide information, via an easy-to-use computer, on local training and education opportunities. They will tell you what’s available at colleges locally, or through private training providers. You will also be able to find out details such as times, methods of study and contact names. WEA courses should be included on the database, as well as lots of other opportunities. TAPs may be sited in libraries, colleges, careers offices, adult guidance services, and in some community centres. There are other useful computer programmes available; for example, ECCTIS 2000 (for information about university courses), and Adult Directions (which helps you to match yourself to available opportunities).

COLLEGES OF FURTHER AND HIGHER EDUCATION

Further Education colleges are currently obliged to offer guidance to students because of the way in which they are funded, and most universities also offer guidance and information to students. However, there is no set pattern for this, and a service may be available to adults through: student services departments; information offices; access or guidance units; course tutors in particular subjects; careers staff or admissions staff. The service offered may be limited and largely focused on courses on offer in the college concerned. If you want an impartial service, it may be better to go to an independent agency first.

PUBLIC LIBRARIES

Local libraries do not usually offer guidance, but are excellent sources of information about local courses, clubs and classes, as well as providing books, computer facilities including access to databases and the Internet, and other resources which you can use to research your chosen field. Librarians will help you to use the computers if you are not sure what to do. TAP machines are often based in libraries.  Many libraries now house Learning Centres where you can use
computer-based materials to learn a range of subjects.  They are often an excellent place to study if you do not have the right environment or facilities at home.

OTHER PLACES WHERE GUIDANCE AND INFORMATION ARE OFFERED

Adult and community education centres or providers

Voluntary organisations and community centres

Open Learning providers such as Open University, Open College and National Extension College

Private guidance agencies

Jobcentres

Special guidance projects for particular groups of people

Citizen’s Advice Bureaux

The DfEE has developed a policy and strategy to develop adult information and advice services.  There are seven “IAG Partnerships” in the Eastern District, each of which corresponds to a county.  The WEA is in touch with all of them. Current information is available from DfEE Publications
Tel: 0845 602 2260, or on the DfEE website: www.lifelonglearning.co.uk

This is a national freephone helpline specially set up to help you answer every type of question you may have about learning. Anyone can phone this number for impartial information and advice on learning and careers. It is completely free and confidential. You can ring for yourself, or on behalf of other WEA students if you need to.

Advisers will also be able to give you details of support services for childcare, financing study or training, and job hunting, and can point you to local advice agencies if you need more detailed help.

The “learndirect” helpline provides information for England, Scotland and Wales, and is open 52 weeks of the year, 9am to 9pm Mondays to Fridays and 9am to 12 on Saturdays. There are minicom facilities for anyone with hearing difficulties, and information can also be sent out in Braille for people who are blind or visually impaired.

“learndirect” also has a website on www.learndirect.co.uk.  The database available only includes a small range of opportunities, so do use the telephone service.

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If your WEA tutor, Branch Secretary or local organiser cannot help with an enquiry, please contact Lesley Haughton, WEA Guidance specialist at Botolph House (Tel: 01223 350978), telephone “learndirect” (0800 100 900), or contact one of the following agencies.

Addresses of Colleges and other providers of learning opportunities are included in “How and Where to Learn” If you have been to one of the WEA Outreach Courses, please contact
Julia Jones (Tel: 01245 231690) for further guidance or email her via this site (www.wea-essexoutreach.org) Go to The Gossip Shop

Your local public library holds a wide range of information about learning opportunities and may provide free access to the Internet. Many libraries now have learning centres, and some have specialist education or work advisors. Use our direct link on the Where Next? page

ESSEX IAG (INFORMATION, ADVICE AND GUIDANCE) PARTNERSHIP

Contact:             Jennifer Rolph               Tel: 01245 706809

CAREERS SERVICE

Essex Careers and Business Partnership offers adult guidance across the county.  Appointments may be booked at any of the Careers Access Points below.  Adult guidance is a chargeable service, although exemptions apply to those people unemployed for 6 months or more.  Other services offered (at varying costs) include psychometric testing, C.V consultation and Job Search Training.

Access to information is free in Career Access Points.

Chelmsford                                           Tel: 01245 706800

Clacton                                                Tel: 01255 503799

Maldon (Part-time)                             Tel: 01621 853552

Burnham (Part-time)                             Tel: 01621 785666

South Wooham Ferrers (Part-time)     Tel: 01245 327159

Colchester                                            Tel: 01206 717100

Harwich (Part-time)                             Tel: 01255 503799

Braintree                                              Tel: 01376 557400

Saffron Walden (Part-time)                    Tel: 01799 522369

Witham (Part-time)                             Tel: 01376 520776

Basildon                                               Tel: 01268 501300

Canvey Island                                       Tel: 01268 683067

Rayleigh                                               Tel: 01268 749600

Southend                                              Tel: 01702 272300

Grays                                                   Tel: 01375 362800

Brentwood                                           Tel: 01277 693300

Harlow                                     Tel: 01279 625300

Epping Forest                                       Tel: 0208 523 5120

TRAINING AND ENTERPRISE COUNCIL

Essex TEC, Redwing House, Hedgerows Business Park, Colchester Road,

Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 5PB     Tel: 01245 450123 

Essex Learning Link

Contact:            Tel: 0800 917 8790

FURTHER EDUCATION COLLEGES

Basildon College, Nethermayne, Basildon, Essex, SS16 5NN

Contact:             Sally Coveney                       Tel: 01268 532015

Braintree College, Church Lane, Essex, CM7 5SN

Contact:             David Mann               Tel: 01376 321711

Chelmsford College, Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 0JQ

Contact:             Barbara Clyde                        Tel: 01245 265611

Colchester Institute, Sheepen Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3LL

Contact:             Irene Samson                        Tel: 01206 518726

Harlow College, Velizy Avenue, Town Centre, Harlow, Essex, CM20 3LH

Contact:           Client Advisers             Tel: 01279 868100

For adult guidance appointments throughout the year, including some evenings.  No charge.

Epping Forest College, Borders Lane, Loughton, Essex, IG10 3SA

Contact:           Avril Rattner, Information Centre          Tel: 0208 502 8778

Appointments available two evenings a week.

S E Essex College, Carnarvon Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6LS

Contact:             Jenny Fox                  Tel: 01702 220690

Thurrock College, Woodview, Grays, Essex, RM16 2YR

Contact:            Jessie Walker/Lynn Weller  Tel: 01375 391199

Writtle Agricultural College, Writtle, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 3RR

Contact:             Phil McCash                       Tel: 01245 424257

HIGHER EDUCATION COLLEGES

Anglia Polytechnic University, Victoria Road South, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1LL

Contact:             Joan Newton                        Tel: 01245 493131 ext. 3298

University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex, CO4 3SQ

Contact:             Careers Service, Terry Barry                Tel: 01206 873378

                        Centre for Continuing Education             Tel: 01206 872519

ADULT EDUCATION

Guidance is not offered in any organised way, except through accredited courses, and:

The Adult Community College, Greyfriars, Colchester

Contact:             Maggie Bernstein          Tel: 01206 42242 (covers N E Essex)

Free service; by appointment only, for educational advice and guidance.

Chelmsford Adult Education Centre, Beeches Close, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 2SB

Contact:             Ann Bell                  Tel: 01245 263013

OTHER AGENCIES

Essex Returners Unit / The Abacus Centre - access unit for all returners to education,

based at Chelmsford College.

Contact :             Joy Macmillan             Tel: 01245 494472

Adult Education Centres, Community Centres and some Sixth Form Colleges offer a range of courses for adults, both daytime and evening. If you can’t find the course you want, and it is not possible to run it through your local WEA Branches, it is a good idea to ask. If enough people ask for a course, one is likely to be laid on.

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Some schools call themselves “community schools” and welcome people from the community as well as their regular pupils. Some classes are arranged specifically for adults, and it is often possible to join in classes with the school pupils.

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Further Education and tertiary colleges have traditionally offered work-related courses mostly for young people, but now more and more adults are taking advantage of college courses. Times are changing, and colleges have to be very conscious nowadays of the numbers of students they are attracting. Consequently they are thinking of new ways to bring in extra students-of all ages. They are also beginning to offer courses they have never offered before. Courses may be part-time or full-time, day-time or sometimes in the evening.

Some colleges run tasters which will give you a sample of what a course is like. Names vary around the country but they could be called something like Next Step, Return to Learn, Uniprep or New Directions. They are an ideal way of finding out what you want, combining: an introduction to what’s on offer; personal guidance; confidence building; communication skills; information on further opportunities.

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Higher Education is run at universities and colleges or Institutes of Higher Education. They tend to offer advanced courses leading to degrees or Higher National Certificates or Diplomas (HNCs / HNDs).  The structure of courses is changing. More and more university courses are divided into modules, which means that you can do parts of a course and build up the modules or units into a degree over a period of time. Universities nowadays are keen to encourage mature students (that’s people over 25!). In fact, more than half of all undergraduates now are “mature students”.

Some universities run courses for adults through their Continuing Education or Extra-Mural departments or Short Course Units. These may be in conjunction with the WEA.

Access Courses: if you haven’t got any GCSE’s or A levels but you want to try for a higher qualification, an Access course may be just what you need. Access courses give you the foundations to prepare you for higher education. They are usually run flexibly-such as short days, so that you can fit them in around your other commitments. There’s usually extra help available if you need it for aspects such as study skills and essay writing. It’s a gentle way of easing you into the university environment.

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Where else to look for courses: many clubs, societies, voluntary organisations, arts groups and leisure centres run courses. Your local library or CAB may have details.

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BASIC SKILLS

Basic skills courses are generally for people who want help with reading, writing and basic maths. Tuition takes place in further education colleges, adult education and community centres, libraries and sometimes in student’s homes or at work.

The aim is to build up your skills and confidence in a friendly and informal way. Find out about courses at your local college, library, CAB, community centre or educational guidance service.

The Basic Skills Agency have a free national telephone referral service for people who want to improve their basic skills. Call freephone 0800 700 987 to be put through to one of 350 recognised national referral points.

Basic Skills Agency

Commonwealth House

1-19 New Oxford Street

London

WC1A 1NU

Tel: 0171 405 4017          Fax: 0171 440 6626

Website:          www.basic-skills.co.uk

ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES (ESOL)

Many colleges and community centres run courses to help you if your first language is not English. The aim is to build up confidence in handling English in everyday situations. It varies around the country but services can include classes, language support, linked skills courses, drop-in sessions, as well as help in the community where you live and also help choosing courses. Your Local Education Authority (LEA) will be able to give you a contact address and number.

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If you are planning to take up a course but it is some years since you have done any studying, you may feel apprehensive as to how you will cope.

            ‘My brain feels rusty’

            ‘I’m worried about getting left behind’

            ‘I’m not sure how to go about studying’

These are comments often made by people who are thinking of returning to study. Whether you plan to attend a course in person or to study by correspondence, this leaflet outlines some basic points to help you make a success of your course.

THINGS HAVE CHANGED!

Some people are put off returning to study because they have negative memories of school. Studying in an adult environment, you are likely to find the atmosphere and relationship with your tutor very different from your school experience. The tutors are there to encourage and support you, not to make you feel a failure. Some courses are structured so that you work independently at your own pace, making it impossible for you to get left behind.

STUDYING EFFECTIVELY

It is said that effective study is made up of 5% inspiration, and 95% effective organisation and productive use of time. So developing your study skills will definitely help you to make a success of your chosen course. You will need to consider the following factors:

·      WHEN are you going to do your studying?

·      WHERE will you study?

·      HAVE you effective skills for note-taking, reading and producing the written assignments that might be relevant to your course?

·      HOW are you going to organise your resources, i.e. notes, handouts and other materials, so they are safely stored and easily retrievable?

·      WHAT about revision skills, if your course involves examinations?

ORGANISING YOUR TIME!

Good time management is essential to successful study - especially if you are fitting it in around your job or looking after a family.

HOW MUCH TIME WILL YOU NEED FOR STUDYING?

Find out from your course tutor approximately how much time you will need to allow for study outside timetabled classes. If you are planning to take correspondence, open or distance learning courses, you will often find this information in course brochures. Make sure you have a realistic idea of time needed before you enrol on the course, so you are quite clear about the commitment involved before spending any money.

Bear in mind you will need time for some or all of the following:

·      Writing up notes - preferably as soon as possible after the lecture/class, and certainly within 24 hours

·      Researching in libraries for specific assignments, and reading around your subject generally

·      Writing essays, assignments, reports etc.

MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE SUFFICIENT TIME FOR LEISURE

Everyone needs some time for relaxation. Depending on the demands of the course, you may have to sacrifice some recreational time, but don’t allow it all to disappear. Decide how much leisure time you feel you need then use this time in a way that really refreshes and relaxes you.

HAVE YOU EFFECTIVE SKILLS FOR NOTE-TAKING, READING AND

PRODUCING WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS?

Development of these practical study skills may be built into your course, or your tutor should be able to offer some help. Advice is given in the publications listed at the end of this leaflet.

WHERE TO FIND FURTHER HELP?

·      Your local college or adult education service may run courses especially for adults wanting to return to study, these are designed to help build up your confidence and prepare you for future courses. They are often called ‘Return To Learn’ or ‘Second Chance’ courses.

·      Some colleges and adult education services run short courses or workshops specifically on study skills, or have drop-in learning centres which provide such help.

·      Many courses have sessions on study skills built into the course, particularly if aimed at adults who are returning to study.

·      There are distance learning (correspondence) courses which prepare you for study.

Good Luck with your Studies!

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Open and Distance learning is a way of learning in your own time and at your own pace, to fit in with your commitments and lifestyle.

The study materials you use may include audiotapes and videos, computer disks and home experiment kits. The ‘open’ learning ones mean that anyone can do them whatever their age or qualifications.

The beauty of many open learning courses is that, although you can be very flexible about when, where and how fast you learn, you’re not just left totally to your own devices. So if you have a problem or query, there’s often a tutor at the end of a phone to see you through.

Some colleges have set up drop-in centres where people can arrange to follow ‘teach yourself’ courses using the college’s facilities - such as computers or language labs.

IF YOU’RE GOING TO DO AN OPEN LEARNING COURSE, YOU’RE GOING TO NEED PLENTY OF MOTIVATION AND DETERMINATION.

And support from those around you at home certainly helps. Libraries keep directories of open learning courses, and “Learning Direct” have a database to refer to.

You will probably have heard of some open learning providers, particularly:

THE OPEN UNIVERSITY

The Open University (OU) offers degree, diploma and certificate courses which are open to all adults. You don’t need qualifications to be accepted, and there is no age limit. Anyone can apply. Its first come first served for places on most of their courses.

Students learn from television and radio ‘lectures’ as well as textbooks, computer software and other multi-media materials.

Every OU student has a local tutor who runs seminars for students. They can be contacted by phone if necessary, as can many of the other students, so you’ve a chance to network with them too. Most students are also encouraged to take part in residential/summer schools.

Find out more from:                           There is also an East Anglian Regional Office:

            Open University                   Cintra House

            Central Enquiries                  12 Hills Road

            PO Box 200,                                 Cambridge

            Milton Keynes                       CB2 1PF

            MK7 6AA                             Tel: 01223 364721

            Tel: 01908 274066

THE NATIONAL EXTENSION COLLEGE

Thousands of students enrol with NEC each year on over 150 different home study course. With more than 45 GCSE and A level subjects available, NEC offers the widest range of course for these exams anywhere in the country, and the range of other recognised qualifications is equally impressive. NEC Student Advisers help over 50,000 students and potential students every year.

Find out more from:

            National Extension College

            18 Brooklands Avenue

            Cambridge CB2 2HN

            Tel: 01223 450200                         website: www.nec-ac.uk

TV LEARNING

You don’t have to sign up to anything to learn from TV programmes! BBC, ITV and Channel Four all transmit educational programmes for home learners. In some cases viewers can buy books, audio and video cassettes and other material to help them make the most of the programmes.

There are excellent courses to help individuals learn languages, develop skills for hobbies, home and office, as well as explore new interests.

“The Learning Zone” consists of educational programmes shown late at night or early in the morning, which you can programme your video to record.

Look At A Copy Of The Radio Times For Further Information Or Contact:

The BBC TV Education Information Line:

Tel: 0181 746 1111 (24 hours).

Advisers will be able to tell you if the programme comes with extra reading material, and if you are interested in a course, can refer you to a BBC Education Centre in your area.

Learning Direct can also provide information about BBC Education Centres.

If you would like to know more about developing your personal interests and learning new skills with the BBC, please contact the BBC Learning Link Adviser:

            Madeleine Forrester,

            Cambridge Regional College,

            Newmarket Road,

            Cambridge CB5 8EG

            Tel: 01223 532336

            BBC website: www.bbc.co.uk/education      

For Information on Channel 4 Schools programmes Tel: 01926 436444

website: www.channel4.com/schools

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UNIVERSITY FOR INDUSTRY (UFI) AND LEARNDIRECT

UFI is working with colleges and other adult learning providers to create a network of up to 1000 on-line learndirect centres across the country which offer hundreds of small ‘bite-sized’ learning opportunities in subjects ranging from surfing the Internet and IT skills, to business skills courses and the basic skills of literacy and numeracy. Most learndirect courses offer an entirely new way of learning- on-line via the Internet, backed up with telephone and on-line support.

 People using learndirect work at their own time and pace, using the Internet to learn not just at their local learndirect centre, but, if they want, at home, at work or anywhere they can log on. There is face-to-face help at the learning centres to get people started in on-line learning. Around 20 per cent of learndirect’s courses, including basic skills courses, are in traditional formats. All basic skills courses include the offer of face-to-face support. Prices can vary between centres, but most courses are modestly  priced. Many attract funding support from the further education funding bodies. Basic skills courses and introductory IT courses are usually free. The courses on offer include a programme for tutors wanting to develop on-line tutoring skills.

Learndirect also runs a free, impartial information helpline about learning and training opportunities nationwide on 0800 100 900. The database used by the learning helpline advisors contains details of over 500,000 courses. UFI is planning to make the database available on the learndirect website.

The number of learndirect centres is growing all the time. You can look up your nearest centre at www.learndirect.co.uk

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Please note: Colleges may have multiple sites or campuses, and be more “local” than they appear from their main address. Please telephone them for details. Colleges usually have one of the following: an information office; a guidance unit; an adult and continuing education office; an Access unit or centre. Any of these would be able to help with enquiries about learning opportunities for adults in the college. LEAs or guidance services will be able to tell you if schools in the area offer opportunities for adults, and where to find help with: reading, writing and basic maths; English as a second language; and study skills. Local ‘learndirect’ centres can be found at www.learndirect.co.uk. If you cannot access the Internet please telephone the learndirect helpline for a list. For other national organisations with local branches (eg. U3A, Women’s Institute) see P36.

Open College Networks are local and regional organisations which aim to provide adult learners with an opportunity to gain credit for their learning.  A range of WEA courses are accredited through OCNs. Collectively, the OCNs are now one of the largest awarding bodies operating in post-14 education. The National Open College Network (NOCN) has 32 members, and represents, supports and co-ordinates the work of its members.

OCNs do not provide courses themselves - they work through colleges, universities, community schools and other adult education providers to ensure that the new qualifications on offer to adult learners in their region are ‘adult friendly’ and meet the necessary standards.

The OCN awards certificates and credits at four levels for work successfully completed. The following chart shows the approximate equivalences between the OCN levels and other forms of measuring achievement:

Each credit has a value within the National Credit framework, and each unit of credit has a particular level. If you do not understand the value of your OCN credits, please ask your tutor, or your local guidance service (see the section on ‘Where to find Help’ in this pack). You can keep your certificates in a folder - they can be useful for applying for further courses, job applications (for voluntary or paid work) and interviews.

Subjects could be short academic courses in, say, history, music appreciation or literature or practical skills like art, badminton, child care, information technology or car maintenance, or ‘stepping stones’ to other things such as return to learning courses, ‘make your experience count’ courses, access to further or higher education, basic education, community studies and many others.

For further information about OCNs, please contact:

NOCN

University of Derby

Kedleston Road

Derby

DE22 1BG

Tel: 01332 622712

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CATS (Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme) means that you can gain credit for different learning you have done in different places. These credits eventually build up towards a qualification.

One advantage is that you can fit getting qualifications into the rest of your life. For instance, if you start a course but stop half way through, the credits you’ve gained can be used later if you decide to pick up your studies again.

You could end up with a qualification made up of courses you have taken at work, units from further education, open learning units and credits for APL (Accreditation of Prior Learning).

For more information or contact a guidance service, “learndirect”.

A National Record of Achievement (NRA) or “Progress File”can be used by people of all ages to review and record their personal achievements. It is personal to you and you can use it when applying for a job, college or university place, or for training, as well as for career development interviews, appraisals and wider professional development.

The NRA has recently been reviewed.  Further details are available from Learning Direct or from the NRA Head Office               Tel: 0114 259 3871

If you want to study, or make a career move, but feel that you are being held back through lack of qualifications, ACCREDITATION OF PRIOR LEARNING (APL) may be just what you need.

The knowledge, skills and understanding you have gained in your everyday life, including voluntary work, can now be valued and recognised - and used to help you to gain a qualification.

A useful book which explains how this works is:

            “Get Qualifications for What You Can Do - A Personal Guide to APL”

            by Susan Simosko, published by Kogan Page.

BBC Education produced a pack for the European Year of Lifelong Learning (1996). Your local careers library should have a copy, it is called ‘Taking the Credit’.

A guidance worker will also be able to help.

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The work you do in the home and in the community gives you useful skills and experience, which you can use to help you find work. Many people do lots of unpaid work which goes unrecognised. Unpaid work develops your skills as paid work does and can be useful when applying for paid work or handling interviews. Being able to recognise and effectively present the skills and experience gained from the work carried out in the home and community can help to show that you meet the requirements of a job.

Unpaid Work in the Home

Much of our time in the home is spent doing a whole range of jobs:

       Making sure the house is secure       Carrying out day to day maintenance

       Caring for children and adults       Educating children

       Managing a budget       Making decisions and managing time

       Obtaining and using information       Dealing with tradespeople, health and education workers

Unpaid work in the Community

       Organising activities       Setting up a new voluntary or action group

       Handling money and book-keeping       Working as part of a team

       Running meetings       Managing and training other volunteers

       Providing a telephone service       Working out priorities and making decisions

       Communicating effectively       Negotiating for resources

       Record-keeping and administration       Caring for fragile members of the community

Each of the above tasks can be described in more detail, for example, day to day home maintenance could involve planning to decorate a room, choosing a colour scheme, buying the correct amount of paint and wallpaper, preparing the necessary equipment and so on.

All the tasks involve using some of the skills required to return paid work. If you are unsure about all the unpaid work you do, you may find it helpful to log all of the tasks you carry out during one week. You might also find it helpful to talk to a Guidance Worker who is experienced in helping people to recognise their skill and value their experiences.

Relating Skills used in Unpaid Work to the Requirements of Paid Work

It is useful to compare the skills you have developed through both paid and unpaid work to the requirements of the jobs you are applying for. At interview you can explain how your unpaid work experience is relevant, for example you could use your experience in changing you GP to demonstrate your negotiating skills.

Remember not all employers will be sympathetic to the idea of unpaid work experience and may not understand how it is relevant to the job. It will help if you have spent time thinking carefully about the skills you have gained at home and in the community and have practised talking about them with a friend. The more specific you are in describing your experience, the easier it will be for the employer to value your unpaid work experience.

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WHAT ABOUT NVQS AND SVQS?

QUALIFICATIONS ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER NOWADAYS

But often when you’ve been doing a job for years you still might not have any recognition for the skills you’ve built up.

The system of National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) and Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) has been developed over the past few years to give people the chance to get credit for the work they do.

·      They cover all types of work at all levels

·      You can taken them whether you are in or out of work

·      Your previous experience can count

·      You don’t need previous qualifications

·      There are no age limits

·      They are grouped into five levels

and there are now well over 800 different NVQs available

NVQs and SVQs are qualifications based on standards which people need to reach in their ways of working. The standards have been approved by industry and commerce and are used to measure your ability to do the job.

They are grouped into five levels, depending on how complicated the work is and the amount of responsibility involved. As you gain more skills, you can progress up the NVQ/SVQ framework.

WHAT ARE GNVQs?

General National Vocational Qualifications (GSVQs in Scotland) started in 1992. They give you a broad preparation for employment, and a route to higher level qualifications (including higher education).

GNVQs/GSVQs are not just about remembering facts or developing one or two skills. They aim to develop the knowledge, skills and understanding that are needed in areas such as business, health and social care, engineering and art and design.

They also develop skills in communications, numeracy and information technology.

GNVQs are available at three levels:            Foundation; Intermediate; Advanced

ASK AT YOUR LOCAL COLLEGE FOR DETAILS or Contact:

The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA), 29 Bolton Street, London W1Y 7PD Tel:             02075 095555 (NVQ and GNVQ enquiries)

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If you want to study or train, you may be liable for the course fees and extra costs like transport, books, childcare or living expenses.

Sorting out finance for education and training can seem a complicated business but it is worth researching as you may be eligible for a grant or bursary, especially if you are not working. Eligibility can be complex and depends on

·      the course you have chosen

·      your individual circumstances

·      the policy of your local education authority

Please check all information, and your calculations with a guidance service or “learndirect”.

Higher Education

There have been a number of major changes in the financial arrangements for student support.  The DfEE publish a booklet, “Financial Support for Higher Education Students in 2000/2001”.  Copies are available from the DfEE Student Support Information Line on 0800 731 9133.  A free textphone service is available on 0800 210280.  The booklet is also available on the DfEE website: www.dfee.gov.uk/support/index.htm

There are different arrangements for Health Care students.  Please contact: The NHS Student Grants

Unit, Room 212c, Government Buildings, Norcross, Blackpool FY5 3TA Tel: 01253 856123.

To discuss the latest information about fees, grants and loans, please telephone your Local Education Authority or Learning Direct (0800 100 900).

The Student Loans company can be contacted at; 100 Bothwell Street, Glasgow G2 7JD

Tel: Freephone 0800 405010

Access Funding

This is available for students in Higher Education Institutions and Colleges of Further Education. It is a discretionary grant for students who can demonstrate considerable hardship. The grant given to students is usually fairly small and may be awarded to cover the cost of books or travel expenses. Institutions will not be able to tell you in advance whether you would definitely be eligible to receive Access Funding or how much this would be, but they may be able to tell you what criteria are used for distributing hardship funding to students. For further information, contact the institution at which you wish to study.

Career Development Loans

If you would like to go on a course that is job-related but can’t afford to pay for it, a Career Development Loan might help. It covers a wide range of vocational courses, lasting up to two years, plus a year’s practical experience where it is part of the course. You can borrow up to  8,000 to cover 80 per cent of your course fees ( and in some cases 100 per cent), plus the full cost of books, materials and other expenses like childcare. You don’t have to start repaying the loan until a month after the course finishes - or up to a maximum of 18 months if you are unemployed, employed and getting certain in-work benefits, or a continuing trainee.

For further details, contact: Your local TEC, or Freephone 0800 585505 for a free information pack.

Disabled Students Allowances

A DfEE leaflet is available, “Bridging the Gap” Tel: 0800 731 9133

SKILL publish a booklist “Higher Education and Disability” (price £2.00).  Please see address list for contact.

Grant Giving Trusts

If you find you are not eligible for a grant look at the Charities Digest and the Grants Register. They will tell you if you qualify for support from a charity or trust. You will find copies at your local library or careers library.  Other useful books are included in the booklist or in the free DfEE booklet “Financial Support for Students”.

Educational Grants Advisory Service (EGAS)

This is an independent advice agency for people wanting to get funding for further or higher education, and who may not be eligible for Government support.

Please send an SAE to EGAS, 501-505 Kingsland Road, Dalston, London E8 4UA

Tel: 0171 249 6636 (Information Line)

Tax Relief

If you are 16 or over and not in full-time education at school, you may be able to get tax relief on the fees you pay for vocational training. The training must count towards an NVQ, SVQ, GNVQ or GSVQ. If you are 30 or over, you may get tax relief on any full-time course lasting between four weeks and a year, so long as the training is vocational. It doesn’t have to lead to an N/SVQ. If you are benefiting from a Career Development Loan or college access funds, you can still get tax relief. However, you are not eligible if you are getting any other financial help under Government programmes, like Student Loans. The tax is effectively deducted from the fees when you pay for your training, so you may be eligible even if you don’t usually pay income tax.

For further details: ask your training provider, or read the Inland Revenue leaflet (IR 119) Tax Relief for Vocational Training, available free from Tax Enquiry Centres and Offices.

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WOMEN RETURNERS

Women Returners Network

Works with industry, commerce, training and educational organisations to make it easier for women to re-enter education, training and employment.

344-354 Gray’s Inn Road

London

WC1X 8BP

Tel: 020 7278 2900

CHILD CARE

Pre-School Learning Alliance

69 Kings’ Cross Road

London

WC1X 9LL

Tel: 0171 8330991

Parents at Work

5th Floor

45 Beech Street,

London

ECZY 8AD

Advice Line: 0171 628 3578                                    General: 0171 628 3565

e-mail: parentsatwork@gn.apc.org                website: www.flimtree.co.uk

National Council for One Parent Families

255 Kentish Town Road

London

NW5 2LX

Tel: 0171 428 5408 or             Freephone: 0800 018 5026 

NCOPF will provide written information on how to go about returning to work, as well as details on benefits, tax and child maintenance. They also publish a free guide “Returning to Work”.

PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

If you have a disability or different needs, the following agencies will be able to offer advice. In addition, many colleges or other adult learning providers have learning support co-ordinators who you can speak to before enrolling. There are also specialist colleges, listed in the NATSPEC Directory (see below.) The Open University, the Open College of the Arts and the National Extension College all offer courses that you can study from home.

SKILL: National Bureau for Students with Disabilities

Fourth Floor, Chapter House

18-20 Crucifix Lane

London

SE1 3JW

Tel: 020 7450 0620            Information Service: 0800 328 5050 (open 1.30-4.30pm)

E-mail: info@skill.org.uk            Internet: www.skill.org.uk

ACE: Advisory Centre for Education

Unit 1C

Aberdeen Studios

22 Highbury Grove

London

N5 2DQ

Tel: 0207 354 8321 (2pm to 5pm)

ASBAH: Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus

Asbah House

42 Park Road

Peterborough

PE1 2UQ

Tel: 01733 555 988

British Dyslexia Association

98 London Road

Reading

RG1 5AU

Helpline: 0118 966 8271

MENCAP

123 Golden Lane

London

EC1Y 0RT

Tel: 0207 454 0454

NATSPEC: Association of National Specialist Colleges

Trevor Villa

School Lane

St Martins

Oswestry

SY11 3BX

NATSPEC produces a directory of colleges priced £5.00

RNIB: Royal National Institute for the Blind

224 Great Portland Street

London

W1N 6AA

Helpline: 0345 669 999            E-mail: rnib@rnib.org.uk

RNID: Royal National Institute for the Deaf

19-23 Featherstone Street

London

EC1Y 8SL

Helpline: 0870 605 0123            Text helpline: 0870 603 3007                     E-mail: helpline@rnid.org.uk

SCOPE (for people with cerebral palsy)

6-10 Market Road

London

N7 9PW

Helpline: 0800 626216            E-mail: cphelpline@scope.org.uk

EX-OFFENDERS

National Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders (NACRO)

169 Clapham Road, London SW9 0PU             Tel: 020 7582 6500

APEX Trust

St Alphage House (Wingate Annexe), 2 Fore Street, London EC2Y 5DA     Tel: 0171 638 5931

SELF EMPLOYMENT

Home Business Alliance

The Firs, High Street, March, Cambridgeshire PE15 9LQ                   Tel: 01354 658850

Industrial Common Ownership Movement

Vassalli House, 20 Central Road, Leeds LS1 6DE                                  Tel: 0113 246 1738

National Association of Teleworkers

The Island House, Midsomer Norton, Bath BA3 2HL                     Tel: 01761 413869

Telecottage Association (TCA)

WREN Telecottage, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire CV8 2RR             Tel: 01203 696986

We will be updating this pack annually, but if you spot a mistake, or think of anything that will make this information easier to use, please telephone or write to: Lesley Haughton Educational Guidance Specialist (01223-350978)

WEA Eastern District, Botolph House,17 Botolph Lane, Cambridge, CB2 3RE

Or go to The Gossip Shop and send an email

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