Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 1

Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 1

Contents Introduction... 4 Adult Learning Newsletter Focus Group... 5 Feedback... 5 Castlehead Learning Community... 6 Partnership Working... 6 Gleniffer Learning Community... 7 Lorraine Martin: My Personal Learning Journey... 7 Gleniffer Learning Community... 8 Partnership Working... 8 Gryffe Learning Community... 9 Bridge of Weir Learning Centre... 9 Johnstone Learning Community... 10 Cassie Sinclair: My Personal Learning Journey... 10 Linwood Learning Community... 11 Paisley Grammer Learning Community... 12 Bernadette Farrell My Personal Learning Journey... 12 Paisley Grammer Learning Community... 13 Beechwood Learning Centre... 13 Parkmains Learning Community... 14 Entrepreneur in Erskine: Beth Paton s Personal Learning Journey... 14 Renfrew Learning Community... 15 Partnership Working... 15 Customer Service Feedback... 16 Evaluation of Service (May 2013)... 16 Success for Community Learning and Development... 20 Celebrating Achievement... 21 Adult Learning & Literacies Services Certificate Presentation... 21 Prolife of Mark Thomson... 22 Guest Speaker at Adult Learning & Literacies Service... 22 Celebration of Learning... 22 Celebrating Achievement... 25 International Women s Day... 25 Providing Adult Literacies Services (PALS)... 26 Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 2

Adult Literacies... 26 Youth Literacies... 26 Family Literacies... 27 Providing Adult Literacies Services Structure... 28 Renfrewshire Adult Learner's Forum... 29 English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)... 30 Gaelic in Renfrewshire... 31 Mòd Phàislig 2013 and The Spree... 32 Work Clubs... 33 New Men s Group... 34 On Line Learning... 35 Moodle... 35 Four letters that will change your life! (APPS)... 35 Crèche Services... 36 Future Events... 37 Learning Centres Details... 38 Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 3

Hello Everyone Introduction 2013 has already been a busy and eventful year for Adult Learning and Literacies Services. (ALLS) In May over 300 learners celebrated their achievements at the Paisley Town Hall at the Celebration of Learning Evening with Councillor Henry presenting the certificates to participants. This term the adult learning programme has been expanding with a wide range of provision available to the residents of Renfrewshire. 16 Computer for Beginners classes 5 Employability Workclubs 10 English for Speakers of Other Languages sessions 3 Gaelic classes 14 IT Skills for Life/Work classses 16 Literacies community based classes 14 Personal and Social Development Groups The Renfrewshire Learning Opportunities Brochure (August to December 2013) is now available in Learning Centres, Libraries and other community venues. The Brochure can be downloaded at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk There are articles from each of the Learning Communities (Non-denominational High School catchment areas) in Renfrewshire, which highlights the successes, and hard work of the Adult Learning and Literacies Services learners and staff. I hope you enjoy reading about all the adult learners events, learner s journeys, groups and courses as well as customers feedback from around Renfrewshire. If you have any comments or feedback please contact our area office on 01505 33382863 or 335873 or e-mail als.els@renfrewshire.gov.uk Gordon Giles Adult Learning & Literacies Services (Acting Manager). Supporting Learners to be: Confidence Individuals, Responsible Citizens, Successful Learners and Effective Contributors Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 4

Adult Learning Newsletter Focus Group Feedback After January 2013 newsletter Adult Learning & Literacies Services held a focus group at the West Johnstone Campus on the 26 th March 2013. This was to engage with learners and staff to hear their thoughts/opinions about what they thought of the newsletter. I would like to thank all the people who contributed to this session. Adult Learning & Literacies Services have listened to the learners, staff feedback and made the following changes Reader Friendly and abbreviations explained Leaner s journeys at the beginning of the Newsletter Better pictures quality, with stories shorter and easier to read due to the layout being changed Staff Structure in this edition we have explained the Literacies staff structure More copies will be available in the learning centres, and it will be available online in the council website. Work Clubs explained in detail. Working to improve future editions. If you would like to be, part of the next newsletter focus group or tell us your thoughts or opinions about Adult Learning newsletter. Contact Kirsteen Jamieson at West Johnstone Shared Campus, Beith Road, Johnstone PA5 0BB on 01505335873/01505382863 or you can email me at kirsteen.jamieson@renfrewshire.gov.uk Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 5

Castlehead Learning Community Partnership Working ALLS and Youth Services are supporting Castlehead High School transitional pupils to upskill their literacies through individual and group work situations, meeting their entitlement of opportunities to develop skills for life, learning and work. The learning is linked to the Curriculum for Excellence four capacities of successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors. (Climbing wall instruction provided by Sports Development) The Scottish social practice theory of literacies learning and teaching is being implemented, and they are learning how to transfer new skills. The learning experiences shall be uploaded to GLOW by the young people and they are practising the higher order thinking skills necessary for progression routes. By the end of the course the young people shall be able to do some or all of the following: Access further or higher education courses Seek gainful employment, volunteering or training opportunities Seize opportunities to seek further literacies support out of school Remain at school and continue with their learning For further information contact: Susan Stewart 01505 335873 / Fiona Auld 0141 889 1110 Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 6

Gleniffer Learning Community Lorraine Martin: My Personal Learning Journey I moved to Glenburn in 2007, from Greenock with my partner and my 10 month old son to a completely new town/area. I did not know one person here and quickly felt isolated. I noticed an advertisement for Glenburn Learning Centre, they were running psychology classes and offered crèche facilities. This instantly appealed to me as it would mean that my son would be cared for, whilst I could learn about a subject I was interested in and hopefully meet new people. I started the class and any nerves I had were quickly settled, I enjoyed learning again and my son loved the crèche. We were asked to write an essay for the course and I panicked! However, I was given help and encouragement when it came to putting it together. I was given feedback and it was very encouraging, for the first time in my life, I was praised in a way that made me realise I had potential. This inspired me, I enrolled in several more classes, it soon made me thirsty to learn and eventually inspired me to move on to study the Higher National Certificate in Social Care at West College Scotland, formally known as Reid Kerr College. I started college but I knew that completing the course was not going to be enough for me and I applied for university to study a degree in Mental Health Nursing. I was overjoyed to be accepted and staff at Glenburn learning centre offered to help with any academic support I needed, like writing essays or referencing. While continuing my studys for the degree, I also attend the family focus group at the learning centre and I find it a valuable support. I was asked to speak about my journey as an adult learner, in Paisley town hall, in front of 300 adult learners and staff. I would never have had the confidence to do this before I joined the learning centre. It felt like a great achievement and I felt honoured to be part of it. This gave me the opportunity to thank everyone who works in Adult Learning & Literacies Services for helping me on this journey. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 7

Gleniffer Learning Community Partnership Working Foxlea Learning Centre opened in April 1998 as PLAN (Partnership Learning Access Network), providing computing and development classes within the Foxbar area. Adult learning & Literacies Services were able to share the same building and office as Foxlea Family Centre, who where well established in the building. This has worked very well for both the learning centre and the family centre, as both complement each other, offering care and lifelong learning. We provide a range of learning opportunities in the form of Adult Literacies, Computing, Personal Development and English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) sessions as well as the very important crèche support. We also share office space, facilities, and resources. The family centre also raise awareness of our classes to the parents and encourage them to come along to see the facilities we offer and to meet the staff as well as giving leaflets regarding the classes we run. The learning centre was able to provide classes for the newly renamed Foxlea Pre 5 Centre, to enable their staff to become more computer literate. We also provided a Cybertots class, which was a computer class for the nursery children. We continue to develop an excellent working relationship with Foxlea Pre 5 Centre and continue to share good practice within the workplace. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 8

Gryffe Learning Community Bridge of Weir Learning Centre Tucked away in leafy Bridge of Weir Learning Centre, Lynn, Marion and the team have had a busy term with a range of ICT and Social Science classes on offer in Cargill Hall. Our Computer for Beginners group has been busy getting to grips with the Internet and working on their keyboard skills whilst our Digital Media class have been honing their skills as home-movie directors. Armed with their digital cameras our intrepid film-makers have been snapping photos and finding out how to use them to create films and slideshows with Moviemaker software. Look out Steven Spielberg! Meanwhile, our Social Sciences classes have been developing their understanding of how people think and act with our Introduction to Psychology courses. The learners say they have found the classes fascinating and challenging as well as being a great way to meet new people. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 9

Johnstone Learning Community Cassie Sinclair: My Personal Learning Journey In 2009 I got help from Providing Adults Literacies Services (PALS) with my reading, writing and numbers, so I could help my children with homework. I was nervous but was made very welcome. I joined other classes, and once I started I never stopped. I completed the following courses, Steps To Excellence this built my confidence to start more things, Women into Technology SCQF level 4, Parenting, Speakeasy (how to speak to my children about sex and relationships), Multicultural Group and European Computer Driving Licence - distance learning at the West Scotland College formally known as Reid Kerr College I was asked to volunteer within IT Skills for Work. I felt honoured, but worried that I could not communicate, or learners would not understand me. I really enjoyed helping. I never thought I would be able to teach someone else and it was a good feeling. This gave me the confidence to apply to West Scotland College and study for the Higher National Certificate Administration and IT. The college assessed me to see if I had a learning difficulty, I am dyslexic. I am amazed that I have come this far and learned this much, when before I thought I was not smart enough. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 10

Linwood Learning Community Adult Learning & Literacies Services in the last year have been holding Literacies classes within the Tweedie Halls. We are pleased to announce that starting in September we have more classes available at the Tweedie halls, a new Work Club, Steps to Excellence and the computing classes will be available. Creche maybe available with the courses. See below for dates, times and contact details: Class Day Time Start Date Venue Computing for Thursday 12:30pm till 5 th September Tweedie Halls Beginners 2:30pm Work Club Tuesday 12:30pm till 10 th September Tweedie Halls 2:30pm Steps to Wednesday 12:30pm till 11 th September On X Centre Excellence 2:30pm Adult Literacies Wednesday 6:30pm till 9pm 11 th September Tweedie Halls Adult Literacies Friday 12:00pm till 2:30pm 13 th September Tweedie Halls If you require any more information please contact: Adult Learning & Literacies Services Telephone: 01505 335 873/01505 382 863. The new On-X centre opened its door in Linwood in 2012. The centre has 3 swimming pools, large sports area, squash courts, dance studio s and much more. Telephone: 0300 300 0250 for more information. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 11

Paisley Grammer Learning Community Bernadette Farrell: My Personal Learning Journey When I first went to the classes at Southend Action Centre (Computing, Confidence Building and Workclub) I had been unemployed for 5 months. My confidence was low and I felt I would never get a job. The staff at Southend were very approachable, gave me lots of encouragement and explained things very clearly. My confidence grew and I was progressing with my computer skills. This made me feel more hopeful for the future. The confidence building class is fun and makes you think more positively. The computer class is also very good as you are not rushed. The Workclub is also very helpful, offering a lot of encouragement and support. I believe that the classes have helped me reach my potential and I am now working in a homeless organisation. The mock interview with one of the tutors was invaluable. I am ecstatic to get a job and plan to continue the computer classes. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 12

Paisley Grammer Learning Community Beechwood Learning Centre This year, our computing programme in Beechwood has focussed strongly on supporting learners who are looking to get into work or who want to make a career change. Adult Learning & Literacies staff Anne and Catherine has been guiding learners though creating CVs, online job searching, online applications and all things job-related to help people move onwards and upwards on their career path. It is not about the technology though, and every tea break you can find the group setting the world to rights over a cuppa. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 13

Parkmains Learning Community Entrepreneur in Erskine: Beth Paton s Personal Learning Journey Beth Paton came to the Next Steps class at Bargarran Learning Centre to meet people and hopefully find some idea of her next step in life that fitted round her busy role of mum to two young boys. In addition to the confidence building and career planning gained while attending the course, Beth identified that she needed to upgrade her IT skills and was able to do this at the learning centre which provided suitable classes that helped her develop the skills needed personally and for her business. The availability of a crèche to support learners was a key factor in enabling Beth to continue and take the step to start up her business. Beth is launching her new business Pet a Pet which uses the skills and experience she has accrued in life and which she identified in the personal development/ confidence course she undertook with Adult Learning & Literacies Services. Beth s company Pet a Pet has 2 aspects to the business Crazie Critters Birthday Parties and Animal Allsorts educational talks and therapies. Crazie Criters Parties are aimed at children in groups of up to 20 children handling a variety of animal species in a safe, controlled but fun environment. Animal Allsorts educational talks are geared towards pre-school and primary aged children and brings natural sciences and biology to life. Sessions can be tailored to the needs of the children and arranged with client/teacher to ensure relevant key stage topic information is included. The talks can also be tailored to other children s groups for any occasion. The parties and educational talks are designed to give children a FUN and EDUCATIONAL experience. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 14

Renfrew Learning Community Partnership Working Anne Craig Moorpark Pre-Five Centre Head of Establishment Some of the St James learners and their children were amongst the 220 children and parents who attended the Moorpark Pre-Five Centre 25 th Anniversary Celebration Event. Throughout the 25 years, Moorpark Pre-Five Centre staff and parents have enjoyed a great partner relationship with Adult Learning & Literacies Services (formerly Community Education). Many parents attended adult learning classes in St James Annexe, relaxed in the knowledge that their children were looked after, learning and enjoying themselves in the Pre-Five Centre or with the Adult Learning & Literacies Services Crèche Service. Crèche staff provided play and learning activities for energetic youngsters at the Anniversary Event. Adult learning staff talked to parents about learning opportunities in St James Annexe and invited many to the Open Day Guidance Event at St James Annexe, Tuesday 27 th August, 9am 2.30pm. The Anniversary Event was a fantastic success and a great credit to everyone involved in organising it. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 15

Customer Service Feedback Evaluation of Service (May 2013) 123 surveys were completed at Adult Learners and Literacies Certificate Presentation Event Overall Satisfaction with Adult Learning & Literacies Services Survey results Survey Results (Percentages) N u m b e r o f p e o p l e 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 58 44 11 10 0 0 Excellent (47%) Very Good (36%) Good (9%) Satisfactory (8%) Unsatisfactory - 0% Weak 0% Results broken down 58 learners (47%) thought that Adult Learning & Literacies Services was a excellent service. 44 learners (36%) thought that Adult Learning & Literacies Services was a very good service. 11 learners (9%) thought that Adult Learning & Literacies Services was a good service. 10 learners (8%) thought that Adult Learning & Literacies Services was satisfactory. In total all 123 learners (100%) were satisified with the overall service that Adult Learning & Literacies Services deliver. 86% of customers thought that the Adult Learning & Literacies Services were very good and excellent. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 16

Does Adult Learning Change People Life s 123 survey results in the Skills and outcomes Section 1. Do you feel your confidence level has improved as a result of attendance in Adult Learning & Literacies classes? 123 Learners said YES. 2. On a scale 0f 1-4, rate your improvement in knowledge and skills? Results Survey Results (percentages) N u m b e r o f P e o p l e 80 60 40 20 0 0 1 - Not at all 7 2 - Very little 36 80 3 - Some 4 - Very much 1 Not at all (0%) 2 Very Little (5%) 3 Some (30%) 4 Very much (65%) Results broken down 80 learners (65%) felt that their knowledge and skills had improved Very Much. 36 learners (30%) felt that their knowledge and skills had improved Some. 7 learners (5%) felt that their knowledge and skills improved Very Little. Here are some of the learners comments: Now have a job, Now applying for college courses. Improved knowledge of Gaelic, Learnt to read and applying my new knowledge to everyday life, Opened my mind for life, Help children with homework and I see things in a more positive way, I am chairperson in a group, a position I never thought I could do, Feeling low due to being homeless confidence building has made me feel valued and that I have something to offer. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 17

Suggestions to Improve Adult Learning & Literacies Services (ALLS) Advertise Adult Learning & Literacies Services more in libraries and media sites. More courses in my area (Renfrew). More English Speakers of other Languages (ESOL) classes. More classes in the evening. WHAT YOU ASKED FOR IN DECEMBER 2012 AND WHAT WE HAVE ACHIEVED 1. Redesign Customer Comment card - Completed Customer comments cards have been re-designed to include recommendations from Customer Service Feedback from January 2013 to include: Details of course attended by customers Comments about Housekeeping 2. Continue Customer feedback through Comment cards Customer Comments Boxes will be promoted at the Learning Centre Open Days in September 2013. 3. Community Groups to be aware of funding opportunities - Completed Groups were advised about funding avenues on 31 st May 2013 Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 18

Number of people 35 Crèche Service satisfaction surveys were completed at Adult Learners and Literacies Certificate Presentation Event 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 17 6 Survey Results 7 5 0 0 Survey Results (Percentages) Excellent - (49%) Very Good (17%) Good (20%) Satisfactory (14%) Unsatisfactory - 0% Weak 0% Results broken down 17 leaners (49%) felt that the creche offered an excellent service. 7 learners (17%) felt that the creche offered a very good service. 5 Learners (20%) felt that the creche offered a good service. 5 learners (14%) felt that the creche offered a satisfactory service. When you combine the excellent, very good, and good figures 30 learners, (86%) were very pleased with the service. Comments about the Crèche Staff are excellent and my child is happy and settled in the environment I am very pleased with the service provided. Both of my children looked forward to their time at the crèche. The Service is great! Everyone is so nice and my child loves it. 10/10 The standard of care of the staff I cannot fault. They take care of my children very well. My child loves this service. He is always happy to be there. He has learnt new things and made new friends. He really likes the staff. I am very happy that my child can spend few hours a week in this lovely place. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 19

Success for Community Learning and Development David Martin (Chief Executive of Renfrewshire Council) with Gordon Giles, Fiona Watson, Teresa Pieraccini, Deputy Provost John Caldwell Dorothy Macphee & Donnie Wood. Community Learning and Development (CLD) received an Award at the Renfrewshire Quality Award Ceremony for its Customer Service Excellence Application. It was in recognition to CLD's outstanding contribution to customer service in particular consulting with learners and creating learning programmes tailored to customer needs. Five compliance pluses was unheard of for a first time Customer Service Excellence application. David Martin Chief Executive praised CLD wide-ranging strategic approach to consultation and involving customers in the planning and development of services and individual service requirements. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 20

Celebrating Achievement Adult Learning & Literacies Services Certificate Presentation Over 300 learners turned out for the Certification Presentation Evening which was held at Paisley Town hall on the 22 nd May 2013. The evening started with a welcome from Gordon Giles (Acting Manager for Adult Learning & Literacies Services). Councillor Jacqueline Henry who is the Convener of the Renfrewshire Council s Education Policy Board, was on hand to talk about adult education and gave out the certificates to the learners. Duncan McEwan from the George Street Project for the Homeless was an enthralling speaker. Representing the learner speakers where Charlene Lai, Jacqueline Mclean and Lorraine Martin who all gave excellent talks to the audience about their own learning journeys and experiences. Mark Thomson was our final guest speaker; Mark is a very talented poet who enthralled the audience with his literacy genius. Music was provided by Alison Buchanan who sang a beautiful Gaelic Song. There was an excellent buffet and drinks spread from Bocadillo on the night. The comments from the learners and staff were that the evening had been well organised and a very successful event. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 21

Prolife of Mark Thomson Guest Speaker at Adult Learning & Literacies Service Celebration of Learning Mark Thomson was our guest Poet at our Celebration Event, gave an inspiring, and thought provoking poetry input about learning and the barriers that we sometimes have to overcome to achieve our learning goals and aspirations. Mark Thomson was born and grew up in Dundee during the 80s in one of the housing schemes built on the edge of the city. Leaving school, after a mutually disappointing experience, he went straight into a factory job. The next 10 years or so saw him moving from factory to factory finally ending up on a building site as a labourer. So far all slightly predictable until one day due a combination of events he packed it all in, and started to write. At first he tried writing how he d been taught at school but still struggled to fully engage with a language and words that didn t reflect his own Dundonian upbringing. He decided to write as he spoke, and has never looked back. His work revolves around his own experiences growing up in a city, in places now described as areas of deprivation. He reflects on the uncomfortable but not uncommon subject matters of drugs, alcohol and violence whilst remaining loyal to themes of family, friends, home and Scotland. He is now a poet, performer, and creative writing teacher and has worked nationally across Scotland, working with community groups and statutory and voluntary organisations in Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 22

places as diverse as football stadiums, classrooms, and prisons. He also features as a regular speaker at national cultural, literacy and voluntary sector conferences. The following poem was written Mark and he recited it at the Celebration Event and was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone in the audience. The feedback from the audience expressed that listening to the poem was inspiring and motivational and that it provided opportunity for learners to reflect on their own learning journeys and consider setting new and exciting goals for the future. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 23

Learning It s a process It s ane that eh like ti express, caress an undress eh like ti see thi bare bones o it eh like ti see it in thi bare flesh But if yiv no been there its hard ti be share its hard ti tak an unkent path ken, naebuddie whants ti be daft! Eh whant ti be switched on an hain a laugh. Eh whant ti learn a new craft eh dinna whant ti be on thi same auld path dain thi same auld graft. If eh dinna hae thi opportunities in front o me meh eyes canna see, eh canna evolve hurddles eh canna jump, problems eh canna solve like an askit powder eh will dissolve! If yi dinna whant is ti be a chav then help is oot, gee is a satellite gee is a sat nav! We ah need a pat on thi back We ah need sumthin back! We ah need a wee but o support In order ti swerve A criminal court! So cum on lets tak thi time ti look at yir watch an check oot thi clock, cause eh ken, you ken, we ken that learning never stops Kin yi write that doon in pen please as its hard ti read when its written in chalk. By Mark Thomson 2013 Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 24

Celebrating Achievement International Women s Day International Women s Day 8 th March 2013 was celebrated at West Johnstone Community Learning Centre,(WJCLC) and 3 community groups; South End Action Centre s (SEAC) Young Mum s Personal Social Development Group, West Johnstone Community Learning Centre (WJCLC) Multicultural Group and Foxlea Learning Centre Multicultural Group. We celebrated the day by sharing and demonstrating our talents/interests, these included; Thai Massage, Eyebrow threading, hand massage, arts and crafts and aromatherapy and holistic remedies. We also enjoyed foods and beverages from around the world featuring: Arabic coffee, Chinese tea, West African rice & fish, Welsh cakes, Scottish Stovies, Haggis, Neeps & Tatties and even a Halal Shepherd s pie! We are nothing if not creative! As you will also see from the photo a few of the participants wore traditional dress to mark the occasion and some wore the colours of Suffrage- green, white and purple. The day was enjoyed by all in attendance and it was a good opportunity to link with other groups and share skills. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 25

Providing Adult Literacies Services (PALS) Adult Literacies Adult Literacy classes are for learners aged 16 and over and assist them to gain and update their skills in reading, writing, spelling, and numbers. We also offer help with improving your job prospects, driving theory, National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in Care, helping your child with homework, Construction Skills Certificate Scheme (CSCS) and entrance exams for Police and Armed Forces etc. Youth Literacies Youth Literacies sessions take place Mondays 9.30-12 noon at the West Johnstone learning centre. Learners are aged 16 to 24 years and come along to develop their reading, writing and number skills within a group setting. Various fun methods and technology help them to up skill in order to gain employment or progress onto Further Education or volunteering. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 26

Family Literacies Good News for Adult Learning and Literacies Service as they have successfully secured additional funding from Education Scotland. The grant will support the Family Learning and Literacy Project. The Project will build on the good practice that has already been achieved in the Adult Learning and Literacies Project of 2012/13, known as the Pizza Reading Group. The workshops proved hugely popular with the children and parents who took part. The project will start in September 2013 until March 2014, working with families in local Primary Schools in West Johnstone and Ferguslie. The sessions will have a holistic and social practice approach and will focus on using early interventions methods supporting families to develop literacy skills, confidence and self-esteem. The Family Learning and Literacies Hotspot Project believe all parents want their children to do well at school and to succeed. There is no greater motivation or incentive for a parent than being able to support their child s learning. Family learning is about providing opportunities for parents, grandparents, and carers to engage in a learning experience that can enhance the life of the family member and the family unit as a whole. Staff from Adult Learning and Literacies Services will lead the project working in partnership with a range of Renfrewshire Councils Services. This includes local primary schools St David s, Cochrane Castle, Glencoates, St Fergus the Homelink Service. The learning programme will encourage parents to support their children to learn in all areas of their education with sessions being built around time for parents and children to read together. This will help build their confidence as well as their reading skills. This is central to children s educational development as evidence suggests that families who live within deprivation and poverty have lower literacy skills than those living elsewhere. Other evidence suggests that children whose parents have more contact with schools become more independent take more initiative and perform better than those children whose parents do not. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 27

Providing Adult Literacies Services Structure Learners/Customers (16 Community Base Literacy Sessions) 35 Volunteers Supported Learning Tutors (SLT) Sharon Welsh, Sharon Anderson, Angela Reynolds, Christine Forbes, Irene Moneith, Sheena Guthrie, Rhona Crook Community Learning Officers Susan Stewart Tom Rice Isobel Sinclair Equalities Development Officer Teresa Pieraccini Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 28

Renfrewshire Adult Learner's Forum Would you be interested in being part of the new Renfrewshire Adult Learner's Forum? What is the Renfrewshire Adult Learner's Forum? The purpose of the proposed Renfrewshire Adult Learner's Forum is to further involve learners/customers in the development of adult learning provision across Renfrewshire. It would be great if the forum consists of a mix of age ranges, cultures, and sexes. Who can Join? People can join the form if they have been an existing learner in Renfrewshire or anyone who has been a learner in the past few years. Learners must be aged 16 or over, while also being a resident within the Renfrewshire, with an interest in Adult Learning. Who should I contact to join? Elaine Graham or Margaret Love 01505 382 863 Or e-mail elaine.graham@renfrewshire.gov.uk or margaret.love@renfrewshire.gov.uk The first meeting of the Renfrewshire Adult Learner's Forum will be in Autumn 2013. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 29

English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Menka Randhawa became aware of ESOL classes in St James Annexe after chatting to friends. This discussion led to some Internet research to find out information about classes and learning centre contact details. Contact was made, and a nervous, anxious Menka made her way to St James for a guidance meeting with staff. Having attended classes, Menka feels so much more positive about speaking English, particularly when phoning schools, doctors or dentists: Attending classes at St James has helped me to be more confident with English explains Menka. I would recommend classes to anyone. I made friends - everyone is so friendly. I learned more about English and computing, and parenting classes showed me how to build stronger relationships with the children. Crèche provision helped the children loved the painting and the play Having had this positive experience, Menka progressed on to volunteering in ESOL classes where her support is very much appreciated by the learners and staff. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 30

Gaelic in Renfrewshire Fàilte. We have had three Gaelic classes running in Renfrewshire this term, from complete beginners through to more advanced classes. Our Gaelic learners are not only speaking and listening to this beautiful language, but are building their knowledge of Gaelic culture and stretching their vocal chords by singing some traditional Gaelic songs. People come along to learn the language for a variety of reasons. Some have family connections; some have an interest in Gaelic culture whilst others simply want to learn to speak Scotland s ancient language as fluently as possible. One thing all our learners share is a willingness to participate in the social activities associated with learning Gaelic and throughout the year there are opportunities to attend ceilidhs, coffee mornings and other fun events in Renfrewshire where you can practice your Gaelic and enjoy some seanchas (chat). A new Gaelic Development Officer Sheena MacLean has now been appointed. Sheena s remit covers Gaelic provision in Renfrewshire, Inverclyde & East Renfrewshire. Sheena profile will be in the next newsletter. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 31

Mòd Phàislig 2013 and The Spree This October, Paisley will be awash will all things Scottish as The Spree, Paisley s national music and arts festivals returns for its second year, and for the first time ever Paisley is host to the Royal National Mòd. The Mòd takes place from 11-19 October and is the high point of the Gaelic cultural calendar hosting a wealth of music, drama, dance, art and literature. Paisley is expecting to welcome upwards of 12,000 visitors who will be coming from around the world to enjoy the competitions for which the Mòd is famous. Ealasaid MacDonald, Convenor of Mòd Phàislig 2013 Organising Committee, said, Come and enjoy the wonderful aspects of this historic event and be assured you don t have to have Gaelic to enjoy the Mòd. The Spree is back from 10-20 October and as well as presenting an exciting line-up of local and national acts there will be a distinctly Scottish flavour to events to complement the Mòd. For more information on these exciting events visit: Website www.modphaislig.org Facebook www.facebook.com/modphaislig2013 www.facebook.com/thespreefestival Twitter @modphaislig2013 @spreefestival Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 32

Work Clubs The Adult Learning and Literacies Services Work Clubs have been running since September 2011. In partnership with Job Centre Plus, the Work Clubs have been created for voluntary participation offering a range of support and learning: Access to PCs and the Internet Online job searches Help to complete application forms and CVs Improve interview skills Build confidence and help gain a job Invite guest speakers to give more specialist advice and information The Work Clubs operate at the following venues: Glenburn Learning Centre, c/o Glenburn Library, Fairway Avenue, Paisley. PA2 8DX Telephone: 0141 884 8060 Southend Action Centre, 57 Stock Street, Paisley. PA2 6NL Telephone: 0141 849 6245 West Johnstone Community Learning Centre, West Johnstone Shared Campus, Beith Road, Johnstone. PA5 0BB. Telephone: 01505 382863 From September 2013, two new Work Club will open its doors at: Bargarran Learning Centre, c/o Bargarran Community Centre, Bargarran Square, Erskine. PA8 6BS. Telephone: 0141 812 4660 Linwood Tweedie Halls, Ardlamont Square, Linwood, PA3 3DE. Telephone 01505 335 873/01505 382 863 Please contact the above Learning Centres for details. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 33

New Men s Group New Men s Group The group is all about bringing men of all ages together to discuss where they are in life, what they want to do next and in the future. The group is about learning to be more confident, healthier, finding new interests, learning new skills. We all have skills to share, stories to tell and the will provide opportunities to develop a space for men to support each other s learning in an informal setting. The group is an exciting new project; why not give it a try! If you are interested call Jim Love on 01505 382 863. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 34

On Line Learning Moodle Adult Learning & Literacies Services has started creating their own MOODLE site! What that I hear you ask WELL Moodle stands for Modular Object-Orientated Dynamic Learning Environment. Moodle is an open source course management system, which means it is a virtual learning environment which allows students to learn from the comfort of their own computer, providing they have internet access. Not only that, we are hoping to roll the site out for use in the learning centres to provide a range of learning materials and courses to support learners in their learning which will hopefully be available in the New Year. WATCH THIS SPACE! Four letters that will change your life! (APPS) If you thought all this new fangled technology was not for you, let me ask you to think again! One of the biggest changes there has been to the way we humans interact with computer devices has been the development of APPS (applications). To be more specific APPS are easier and more direct in accessing the information that humans want from their IT devices. From ipads and tablets to mobile phones, the use of APPS focussed on delivering one type of activity, have made it faster and easier to get what you want when you want it. The major success of APPS technology is the ease with which people of all ages have taken to it. There is no need for lengthy courses lasting months now; most APPS take a couple of minutes to explain and users can be reasonably proficient in a matter of hours. So what s keeping you - give us a call on 01505 335 873 /01505 382 863 to find out more about learning opportunities. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 35

Crèche Services The aim of the Crèche Service is to enable adults to participate in adult learning opportunities provided by Adult Learning and Literacies Services. We aim to provide care and quality play opportunities, which enable children to socialise and learn in a safe and stimulating environment. Children from 0-5 years are cared for during term time, with evening and weekend provision up to 16 years. Provision is free for adults attending learning opportunities and we provide healthy snacks for the children. All Crèche staff are registered Practitioners with Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and hold or are working towards the relevant childcare qualifications. Staff/child ratios are strictly adhered to. We will treat each child as an individual to ensure equal opportunities, regardless of gender, race, culture, religious beliefs, or additional support needs. We currently crèche in our 6 Core Skill learning centres and various other Partner Agency venues with 26 crèches running per week throughout Renfrewshire. Congratulation goes to three crèche staff members who have recently completed their SVQ Level 3 Childcare Learning and Development qualification. Elaine Graham, Katie Montgomery and Maureen MacInnes were delighted to receive their qualification certificates from Scottish Vocational Qualifications provider Cairellot. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 36

Future Events August 2013 Adult Learning Opportunities Booklet. August/September 2013 Open Day s Learning Centres. 8 September 2013 International Literacy Day September/October 2013 Family Learning Week October 2013 MOD/Spree December 2013 Classes and Groups finish, Week Ending 13 th December 2013 How to contact Adult Learning & Literacies Services: Adult Learning & Literacies Services West Johnstone Community Learning Centre West Johnstone Shared Campus Beith Road Johnstone PA5 0BB Telephone: 01505335873/01505382863 Email: als.els@renfrewshire.gov.uk Website: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk and click on education and learning and then click adult and community learning. Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 37

Learning Centres Details Bargarran Learning Centre c/o Bargarran Community Centre Bargarran Square Erskine PA8 6BS Tel: 0141 812 4660 Beechwood Learning Centre Shortroods Road Paisley Tel: 0141 887 8625 Bridge of Weir Learning Centre Cargill Hall Lintwhite Crescent Bridge of Weir Tel: 01505 614 012 Foxlea Learning Centre c/o St Pauls Primary School Orchy Crescent Foxbar PA2 0NN Tel: 01505 816 866 Glenburn Learning Centre c/o Glenburn Library Fairway Avenue Paisley PA2 8DX Tel: 0141 884 8060 Southend Action Centre 57 Stock Street Paisley PA2 6NL Tel: 0141 849 6245 St James Community Education Centre St James Primary School Annexe Off Brown Street Renfrew Tel: 0141 886 1604 West Johnstone Community Learning Centre West Johnstone Shared Campus Beith Road Johnstone PA5 0BB Tel: 01505 335 873 Adult Learning & Literacies Services Page 38