How is the learning validated
In the development of a national Planning for Learning
process, a unique and innovative approach to the validation of
learning opportunities in out-of-school-hours settings has been
devised with the support of Professor John MacBeath of the
University of Cambridge. The Planning for Learning - A
Framework for Validating Learning document sets out a rigorous
process of self-evaluation and planning to ensure that the highest
quality of learning is provided in all Children's University
learning activities and in all activities accredited by the
CU.
The approach to the Planning for Learning process is a
positive one and will fit in with the ethos and focus at local
Children's University level. Typically the validation process will
take place between the Learning Destination designate and
local CU representation as part of an exercise in collaboration to
enhance the quality of children's learning.
Local Children's Universities may want to prioritise local
provision to be validated to their local CU agenda and capacity and
build their pool of Learning Destinations from there - the
'pebble-in-the-pond' approach. As far as their own learning
provision is concerned, validation in existing local CUs can take
place as and when learning activities occur; typically therefore
all local CU provision should be validated within a 12 month period
from becoming active.
Once the validation process has been completed and the outcomes
agreed, the 'Children's University Learning Destination
Summary' (from the Planning for Learning document) will be
completed and published on the national Children's University
website (www.childrensuniversity.co.uk). Children
and parents can then access a national bank of public Learning
Destinations to visit after school, during school holidays or
weekends. By being able to exercise choice as to where to use the
Passport To Learning the child will be developing in to a
more independent learner. Schools and after-school clubs may also
choose to become restricted Learning Destinations purely
for their predetermined CU audience.
Planning for Learning validators will have been
accredited by the national Children's University following their
participation in a national CU training programme. The training has
been designed with the support of Professor John MacBeath and his
team from the University of Cambridge.
Planning for Learning validators will be issued with a
national Children's University certificate which entitles them to
validate learning provision locally on behalf of the national CU
and award Learning Destination status. The certificates
are linked to the national membership status of the local
Children's University.
A national register of Planning for Learning validators
by local CU will be retained by the national Children's University
for quality assurance purposes and to share resources and good
practice.
- Click
here to read a student's journey through CU validated
Learning Destinations