The Impact of the 14-19 learning pathways agenda on the young people of Bridgend - Introduction

Introduction

What do Liam, Josh, Leah and Rachel have in common? The answer lies in their learning. They are all young people studying in Bridgend who have been able to access quality learning opportunities relevant to their needs and aspirations.

The following case studies, show how new learning pathways and opportunities are providing learners with increased choice and flexibility and how this is impacting positively on their lives.

In Bridgend we regard all courses and qualifications to be of equal value. This is reflected in our 14-19 Option Menu, which we feel meets the needs of our young people effectively. The Welsh Assembly Government has identified five broad areas of study known as domains which are in turn made up of a number of different courses and qualifications.

These case studies reflect a range of learning pathways across a selection of these domain areas delivered by schools working, with other neighbouring schools and schools working in partnership with the College in order to benefit learners like Liam, Josh, Leah and Rachel. These four young people are joined by ten others, to provide a set of fourteen case studies about different students, following different pathways, all leading to different outcomes and further opportunities for progression. Through their experiences we are reminded of the important principle of putting the needs of learners above the needs of institutions. This is a fundamental principle to which all learning and training organisations in the area subscribe.

I hope that you enjoy reading this document, which focuses on learners’ experiences of formal learning pathways. We are already working on a second set of case studies which illustrate how young people have developed their skills and personal qualities in non-formal and informal settings. These will complement this document and will be produced during 2009/10.

Kath Durbin
Post 14 Education and Training Development Officer and 14 – 19 Network Officer for Bridgend County Borough Council

Contact Details:

Name: Kath Durbin - Post 14 Education and Training Development Officer