Report on Briefing Session held at Marriott Hotel, Glasgow, 23rd March 2007

The purpose of this briefing session was to inform people of progress to date in the development of this new award and to identify potential members of the course development group and unit writers. The session was well attended with an interesting range of representatives from all sectors involved. We had also received written apologies and comments from a number of individuals who were not able to make it on that day.

The session was presented by Lorna Trainer and George Baker of L&G Learning (Scotland) who have been appointed as project managers in the development of this exciting new award. They were joined by Linda Green of LMG Associates who had carried out the original HND Scoping Report.

After welcome and introductions, Linda summarised the main findings of the Scoping Report and responded to questions and comments from participants. George then presented some more background which demonstrated where this new award would fit in with existing and planned developments. Lorna concluded by outlining the process and timeline which we intend to follow in developing the award.

This was followed by some small group activity which aimed to identify possible difficulties and opportunities in the process. Feedback from these activities was generally positive and although difficulties were recognised, some new ideas and lines of approach were also contributed. Overall we were impressed by the general sense of enthusiasm for the new award.

A big thank you to everyone who managed to come along. Copies of all the presentations and reports referred to are available on the blog for you to have another look at if you wish. More importantly, there will be opportunities to further discuss and debate the points raised.

George Baker

Welcome

The purpose of this Blog is to encourage and facilitate open discussion and sharing of views on the new development of an HND qualification for the Social Services Sector. Contributions welcomed from everyone who may have an interest.

It is also intended to keep people up to date on the progress of this development.

The validity and integrity of SQA awards depends on the co-operation and participation of our stakeholders. Care Scotland have enjoyed tremendous support over the years and are looking forward to your participation throughout this development. Lorna Trainer and George Baker from L&G Learning are managing this project.