Scottish Government has launched an independent review into Community Learning and Development (CLD), with 2 online surveys for learners and potential learners, and practitioners.
CLD is a field of professional practice which enables people to identify their own individual and collective goals, to engage in learning and take action to bring about change for themselves and their communities. It uses a range of formal and informal methods of learning and social development with individuals and groups in their communities.
The aims of the Review (its Terms of Reference) include:
“Consider[ing] the extent to which CLD is currently delivering desired outcomes and how it is placed to contribute towards the recommendations set out by Professor Ken Muir, Professor Louise Hayward and James Withers for developing an education and skills system that is fit for the future.”
The review will make recommendations on where changes may be required to deliver those outcomes through CLD practice in the context of wider education reform, whilst ensuring sector readiness to meet future known or unknown challenges, and also being mindful of current challenges around public finances.
In addition to hearing what learners and potential learners think about CLD, the review is also keen to hear from others with an interest in CLD. This may include CLD workers and volunteers, third sector organisations, local government decision-makers or budget-holders, or other service providers (eg. employability support, benefits or money advice, educator, mental health support worker, or GPs, etc).
The survey for learners or potential learners (linked for your convenience): if you have taken part in community learning or might want to in the future, the independent review would like to hear about your experiences and expectations.
The survey for practitioners and organisations: you can take part in this survey if you are a CLD practitioner, budget holder, decision maker, organisation with direct or indirect interest in CLD, or a professional or volunteer working in CLD-related services (such as employability, mental health or money advice).
The deadline for responses to both surveys is Sunday 3rd March.
To submit your response, or for further information, please click on the relevant survey link above, or visit the Scottish Government website.
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