Aims of the project To scope the prior experience and learning undertaken by an identified potential cohort of students for the foundation degree in health and social care (mental health learning disabilities) in the faculty of health and social care. To map learning to modules and learning outcomes of both the FD modules and the APEL modules. To scope employer based training and learning (EBTL) and map to learning outcomes of the FD programme. To promote, enhance and support the development of APEL processes and partner awareness of the use of APEL To develop end support the student experience when using an APEL approach.

Detail of the project In Mental Health and Learning Disabilities, the local NHS is making considerable investment in the development of services which collectively are known as ‘forensic’. These include low and medium secure services for people detained under the mental health act and services for people who have personality disorders. Such services are for both mental health and learning disabilities. One key aim is to enable people who have had services provided out of area to return to their home area. Another consideration is the presence in North and East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire of a large independent sector.

Details continued… There are 11 independent hospitals with 284 places, all providing services in low and medium security. Having a safe and competent work-force is essential to these services. Currently, we are being supported by the lifelong learning network to develop specific programmes of study to meet the needs of practitioners in this area of practice.

Details continued Potential students of this programme usually are employees of the NHS and independent organisations and as such they bring both experience and formal training and learning. The project will use examples of this to map APEL routes for students and will provide pathways for use in making APEL claims. Understanding and promoting the use of APEL is crucial to the success of the FD. Employer engagement is an essential element and the project will use employer engagement to refine and add to the pathways.

Benefits of the Project The first outcome will be a map of pathways within the FD that means that APEL claims can be quickly and competently processed. Enhancement of partnership and a greater understanding of the role that APEL plays in contemporary programmes. Cost benefit in terms of exemption and shorter programmes. APEL enhances the student experience and adds value to the educational opportunity by acknowledging and celebrating the experience that students bring- the project will clearly map this process.