ColegauCymru works with representatives from colleges and wider stakeholders to capture and share existing best practice to develop the Independent Living Skills (ILS) curriculum and Learning Area Programme (LAP).
We have led several projects that have resulted in the development and roll out of a new non-accredited curriculum for ILS. The success of this initiative was through the formation of a professional learning community, the ILS Network. Membership of the network includes representatives from all FE institutions in Wales, as well as Welsh Government, Estyn and Natspec.
Funded by Welsh Government, the ILS Network has made radical changes to ILS provision in Wales in response to recommendations made in the (2017) Estyn thematic report. Outcomes achieved include:
- Development and roll out of the new person-centred, destination-led, relevant and practical Four Pillars ILS Curriculum.
- A move to mostly non-accredited learning, with learners working to achieve individual targets.
- Publication of an agreed RARPA self-assessment framework and guidance toolkit.
- Training for ILS managers and practitioners in using the new curriculum including a programme of webinars and a mentoring opportunity.
- Development and roll out of a RARPA review/ peer exchange process.
- Development of guidance and standards for Pathway 4 provision (transition to employment and supported internships).
- Annual conferences with 80 – 100 staff from colleges across Wales attending.
- Sharing effective practice and resources across Wales, developing the facilities and pedagogy in all institutions.
The ILS Network continues to work together to:
- develop and share effective practice and resources;
- regularly review and update curriculum and quality assurance processes and documentation;
- ensure quality and rigour in assessment and methods of tracking and monitoring learner progress; and
- monitor the roll out of the Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act and its impact within the ILS programme area.
Further Information
Welsh Government Report
Response to the Estyn thematic review on Learner progress and destinations in independent living skills learning areas in FE
June 2017
ILS - Pathway 4 Supported Interships - Guidance and Standards
Guidance for RARPA ILS Peer Exchange Self-Assessment - Part 1
ILS RARPA Self-Assessment Template - Part 1
Guidance for RARPA ILS Peer Exchange Self-Assessment - Part 2
ILS RARPA Self-Assessment Template - Part 2
RARPA ILS Peer Exchange Guidance
ILS Peer Exchange Form 1 - Sampling of Learner Experience
ILS Peer Exchange Form 2 - External Check by Peer Review
Contact
Eifiona Williams is the primary ColegauCymru contact for ILS in FE colleges in Wales.
Eifiona.Williams@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
