Basic Skills
Quality Marks set out a framework for providers of adult training programmes and schools to improve basic skills provision involving literacy and numeracy. Powys Training, which has offices throughout the county, has been awarded the Post 16 Quality Mark for its basic skills work with adults in partnership with Powys Community Consortium for Education and Training (CCET). Powys Basic Skills Signposting Brochure Launched, click here for more info. “Working towards the Quality Mark has enabled us to look at our programme of delivery in detail and to focus on ensuring that we give the best possible quality of service to our learners,” said Sue Chidlow, a Powys Training basic skills tutor. “Our overall strategy and action plans are designed to meet the needs of our learners and are closely evaluated. Tutors are trained to nationally recognised standards and their skills are updated, while learning is planned specifically to the meet the needs of individuals.” Powys Training offers accreditation via City and Guilds Adult Literacy and Numeracy qualifications together with learning support for learners completing other qualifications. Across the county, the company has supported around 50 basic skills learners in the past year, in addition to those receiving learning support for key skills and NVQs. “Learners gain as much in self esteem as they do by gaining a qualification,” said Sue, “and many are encouraged to gain further qualifications and look for employment.” A spokesman for The Basic Skills Agency said: “The Quality Mark has the potential to help to improve the quality of basic skills provision for adults. It puts the responsibility for quality with programme providers and supports self-review and continuous improvement.” This infrastructure, backed by learning programmes, ensures quality provision and provides an opportunity for people to access support from various organisations. |
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