Learning to Learn with Gateshead College and NCFE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) February 24, 2012 -- The NCFE Level 1 and 2 Awards in Learning to Learn, have been jointly launched by NCFE and Gateshead College, to help learners become more confident, effective and motivated in their main programme of study.

Colleges across the UK deliver the qualifications as part of a structured induction at the beginning of the academic year to help learners take charge of their own learning and increase student retention rates.

David Grailey, Chief Executive at NCFE, said: “We believe that an individual’s learning capabilities really can be exercised to enhance achievement, and that’s what we’ve seen at Gateshead as well as many other colleges we work with across the UK.

“Effective learning is a skill that can be cultivated and improved. Enhancing a young person’s learning prowess ultimately promotes engagement, provides individualised support and increases their chance of success both at college and in the competitive world of work.”

Gillian Forrester, Head of Teaching and Learning Development at Gateshead College, has been delighted with the success of the qualifications.

She said: "The requirement for this type of qualification emerged after teachers told us that students are coming to college without the key learning behaviours they need to succeed in their learning. The Awards in Learning to Learn have developed the skills, habits and mindset of our students which allows them to reach their full potential.

“Our members of staff have reported that students are working better in teams and come to lessons better prepared and with a more polite attitude. They have also seen a greater confidence in students’ independence and a sense of individual responsibility.”

Gateshead College’s internal observation team, who grade the quality of learning have noted that the impact of the Learning to Learn programme is clearly evident in the sessions observed. Overall in academic year 2010-2011, 29% of lessons observed were graded as outstanding; in the period Sept 11-Dec 11 the figure was even higher reaching a level of 40%.

For more information on NCFE visit www.ncfe.org.uk
ENDS