Introduction to Working with Communities (January) @ SCQF Level 6

Introduction

You must be already working in or volunteering in the community to be eligible for this programme which has been specifically designed for you.  Successful completion will see you gain a Professional Development Award in Community Involvement through this part-time (half day a week) programme which will run until June 16th.

The programme is designed to introduce you to Community Learning and Development (CLD) academic theory and practice, with particular focus on involvement in community capacity building, which is one of the three main strands of CLD.

This level 6 award will prepare you for possible progression to other programmes at an equal or increased SCQF level at present a natural progression would be to HNC Social Services or HNC Social Sciences, although other institutions may offer an HNC in Community Learning.

The award is suitable for you if you already have understanding and experience of Community Learning and Development – but have no formal qualifications in the field.

It may further be a step towards being able to register for membership of the Scottish CLD Standards Council.

This course will start on the 9th February and is mostly online.  Although only a half day attendance at online lessons – you will be expected to at least double that time additional study as it is a tight timeline for achievement within the 16weeks.  You must be doing sufficient hours in your place of work or volunteering to allow for successful meeting of the standards for the programme.

Course code

SWCO

Location:

Varies

Duration

Online live lessons for 16 weeks starting 9th February 2023

Entry Requirements

 

 

You must be prepared to work online for the majority of your theory lessons.  You must be a member of the PVG scheme, or be prepared to pay for membership.

You must be volunteering or working within the community.  Part of your work/volunteering will be used as placement experience.

You must be capable of working and writing at SCQF level6 which is the same as Higher.  You can demonstrate this with a good personal statement in your application.

Only a very limited number of devices are available to borrow from the college if you do not have use of your own.  Please ensure on your application you answer the question on device access.

Information and Interview Session Requirements

For this course we will not be routinely offering interviews. Please ensure you complete your application and supporting information with as much information as possible to allow us to make a decision on your suitability for a place on the course. 

We may contact you by phone if we have further questions.

Course Content

PDA in Community – three units.

Assessments

There are assessments to complete which are mostly ongoing through portfolio, and mostly open book.  Where there are closed book assessments you may be asked to come into the college building to sit these.

Progression

You may want to look at progressing to another level 6 full time programme or HNC level.  You may be eligible for membership of the Scottish CLD Standards Council and as such seek paid employment in the sector.

Career Prospects

Many community groups (paid and voluntary positions)

Additional funding information

N/A

Selling Points

Since the majority of learning is online – this programme can be delivered right across the region, with only a very few times where learners may need to attend Dumfries Campus for closed book assessments.  

Your workplace can be used as part of your learning.