Supporting employability and motivation in informal learning
New College Lanarkshire has been successful in receiving European funding in both the Lifelong Learning and the Erasmus+ Programme. With successful applications in both 2014 and 2015, their projects range from vocation education and training (VET) to adult education.
You can hear more about how the college has benefitted from Erasmus+ funding in this video interview with Kirsten Sams from the college which was filmed at the 2015 Erasmus+ UK Annual Conference. Kirsten talks about their Key Action 2 Strategic Partnership for Adult Education project titled 'Validation and Motivation for (In)Formal Learning in Prison'. The project designs, delivers and validates informal learning activities with the focus on the primary key competence of learning to learn. This supports the overall goal of enhancing motivation for participation in adult education in prison in combination with at least five other European Framework Key Competences.
The basis for the college to continue to provide opportunities in the Erasmus+ programme was formed on their successful Leonardo projects. In May 2014 the college’s Leonardo mobility project 'Training and Education for Athletes through Mobility' completed the final mobility placements. A selected number of college students worked towards their Level 1 Award in Exercise Studies, requiring them to work through a series of tasks and activities designed to reinforce the learning process and demonstrate their knowledge.
The Leonardo project was seeking to improve retention, achievement and attitude and give participants a greater understanding and knowledge of their vocational area from an EU perspective. It has given participants the opportunity to:
- enhance their vocational learning within an EU work placement;
- add value to their development by integrating invaluable soft and employability skills;
- develop their language skills;
- develop their cultural awareness; and
- enhance their potential to enter the labour market.
One college student, Agnieszka Narczynska, completed her placement in Malta at the hosting company Cynergi Gym which was facilitated by the host partner Luxol Sports Club. Here she had the ability to work as a gym attendant, working alongside gym staff and personnel.
My work experience was definitely something that I will never forget. The ability to work with such an amazing people, learning new techniques, ability to experience a bit different approach to fitness and exploring local culture were absolutely amazing - Agnieszka Narczynska, participant
As part of the mobility, the college used The European Credit System for Vocational Education and Training (ECVET) principles to accredit students whilst on placement, rewarding the skills gained and knowledge which can be beneficial for many sport/fitness events organised by college. Using educational environments to improve habits around sport and physical activity can help to build more active generations and can be a valuable investment in the future of society and economy.
Want to find out more about what funding is available under Vocational education and training? Visit our VET funding webpage!
