DUMFRIES and Galloway College (DGC) is pleased to announce the launch of a new course specifically tailored to help those looking to work or volunteer in the Community Learning and Development (CLD) sector.
The college’s ‘Introduction to Working with Communities PDA @ SCQF Level 6’ will be delivered In a hybrid way and will include in-person reflection and collaboration sessions, synchronus online delivery and asychronus independent digital learning.
This will allow practitioners to study at their own pace around work commitments whilst ensuring engagement and peer collaboration. It provides people who work or volunteer the flexibility to learn and study in their own time to gain a Professional Development Award in Community Involvement.
As well as providing an insight into CLD theory and practice, the 18-week course also lets learners focus on their involvement in community capacity building, which is one of the three main strands of CLD.
Following the launch at the STEM Hub in DGC’s Dumfries campus, Phil Storrier, Executive Director of Student Experience, said: “We are delighted to launch our new PDA Introduction to Working with Communities.
“We have worked closely with CLD Managers within the Local Authority to co-create this new programme model.
“Working in partnership has allowed us to create provision as needed by the CLD workforce and has been informed directly by key stakeholders including volunteers, practitioners and members of the CLD Standards Council.
“Through innovative use of technology and forward-thinking curriculum design we are meeting workforce demands by offering flexible and personalised learning opportunities to meet workforce demands and upskilling. We can’t wait to see how the first cohort get on and they will help shape delivery moving forward.”
Stephen Jack, Lifelong Learning Manager with Dumfries & Galloway Council and Chair of the CLD Partnership, commented: “Workforce Development is a key priority within our CLD Partners’ Plan and it has been fantastic to work with the college to develop this course and secure cross sector representation on the first cohort.”
Joanna Campbell, Principal, Dumfries and Galloway College, said: “Dumfries and Galloway College believes this new programme is a fantastic opportunity for those working and volunteering in Community Learning and Development to further their knowledge and support development of the regional future workforce to further their knowledge.
“I would like to thank everyone who has helped to develop the course and I am certain it will benefit both the learners and the wider community as a whole.”
