Review of training in 2005-6:

Over 1700 Skills for Life teachers and support staff have engaged with this distance-learning programme. The initial awareness raising days started with an event in Nottingham and concluded 78 events later in Yeovil in late January 2006. Along the way this initial day was delivered in such diverse settings as a Royal Navy establishment, a number of prisons and even a youth hostel! Evaluations from the training days revealed a satisfaction rating of over 90%, a tribute to the quality of the materials and trainers. Trainers supported these learners through the distance learning element of the programme to the end of March 2006 and many certificates of completion were awarded. Even those who did not wish to complete the activities complimented the materials with many choosing to use the resource as a book, using it when required.

An initial study looking at the impact that the training has had on the participants has already indicated positive outcomes:

  • teaching practices have improved,"The course has helped me to think more constructively about the nature of individual problems and my response. I knew quite a lot about the difficulties, but not about how to solve them! The course has in particular given me some analytical tools, as well as a range of responses"
  • organisations are communicating better "The programme has been the catalyst for increased discussion between support staff particularly, on the needs of dyslexic students within our organisation. This has resulted in increased awareness of needs and good practice in the organisation"
  • and learners are having an improved learning experience "Some learners are more able to relax, others express relief at having the reasons behind their difficulties explained. Some begin to develop confidence in themselves as I point out their strengths. (Many had never thought of themselves as having any strengths"

We will be using feedback from both participants and trainers to fine-tune the materials for an even better learning experience so make sure that you register your interest in engaging with this programme for 2006-7

Read a summary of the training programme.