1. National Progression Awards Conference March 2009 Making Connections through Playwork and Childcare at South Lanarkshire College

2. Presenters Annemarie Wynn Course Leader NPA- Playwork and Childcare South Lanarkshire College Jennifer Hughes Lecturer in Care South Lanarkshire College Heather Lamont NPA Student South Lanarkshire College

3. Rationale NPA awards are vocational awards designed to help people for: Employment Career Development Progression to Further Study

4. The Project Challenges Barriers Difficulties Removed Student Backgrounds Employment Opportunities Scottish Social Services Council

5. Course Design Classroom Placement Practical learning, written and research work

6. Partnership Arrangements Routes to Work South Recruitment South Lanarkshire Community Engagement South Lanarkshire Council European Social Fund Fairer Scotland Funding Local Community Centres

7. Delivery Approaches Venues Interviews Enhanced Disclosure Experienced and Sympathetic Staff Guidance Tutor Induction Programme Placement Resources

8. Evaluation Strong Links with Partners Impact on Lives Employment Lifelong Learning Number Completing Course External Evaluation

9. Building on Success Course continuing in other centres due to employer’s demands Students continuing their lifelong learning Students continue to work as volunteers in placement

10. Quotes “Course in community setting is ideal, local, very friendly, internet access excellent.” Margaret Callaghan-student “Lecturers are friendly, helpful and motivational.” Margaret Fellows-student “The programme has been set out and explained very well.” Heather Lamont-student “I feel we are doing well and able to work as part of a team.” Margaret McCardle-student “I will take more students if they are of the same calibre that you have already sent me.” Christine Pepper-High Flyers After School Care-employer “I have offered your student employment at the end of her course, as she has been so good.” Three Bears Nursery- employer

11. Learning is Fun

12. Jennifer Hughes Lecturer in Early Education and Childcare

13. Background Staff Experiences Staff Enthusiasm

14. Placement Types of Placement Student Participation Student Experience

15. Students

16. Student Achievement Recognised Award Practical Experience Confidence Friendships Future Progression

17. FUN!

18. Heather Lamont PDA Playwork and Childcare student 2008-2009

19. Positive Attractions Location Informal Relaxed

20. Challenges Confidence Education Self esteem

21. Personal Achievement Qualification Heightened Self Esteem Left Comfort Zone Friendships Further Study/Lifelong Learning