Resources for adults with learning difficulties Wednesday, November 11, 2009 - 12:13

Free resources to help work-based learning providers and practitioners in supporting learners with a range of learning difficulties and disabilities, are now available to download from NIACE.

The resources consist of:

• a series of case studies - highlighting practical examples of providers with a wealth of experience in supporting learners with learning difficulties and disabilities in work-based learning
• seven briefing sheets - each highlighting a particular learning difficulty or disability, explaining how it may affect learners in work-based learning and signposting to more sources of information and support

Dave, Quality Manager, Manchester Solutions, said:

"A company that worked specifically with people with head injuries would take learners on train or bus journeys, people who would never have done that for fear of having an epileptic fit whilst travelling on their own."

Luke, learner at Birmingham Rathbone Society, said:

"Because of the smaller groups you get a lot of help, which makes you feel happy because you know that you are getting the help that you need and you know that you are learning more."

Jean, Senior tutor, Landmarks college, said:

"Worksheets are designed to suit each individual learner's level of ability. Some are done in symbols, some are done in text and some are done as tick boxes depending on the needs of the learner."

David, learner at Leeds College of Building:

"With me, I get additional support with my reading. The practical work, i.e. in the workshop or at work I am good at, but receiving additional support in Key Skills really helps."

Rachel Davies, NIACE Programme Director, Literacy, Language and Numeracy, said:

"In recent years there has been an increased focus from policymakers on adults taking part in work-based learning in its many forms. However, data from the Learning and Skills Council shows that adults and young people with learning difficulties and disabilities, who take part in work-based learning, are less likely to achieve their qualifications than their peers who don't have an additional support need."

"Taken together, our case studies and briefing sheets are a valuable resource for work-based learning providers. They can help them make sure they support all of their learners - whatever the learning difficulty or disability - to participate and succeed in work-based learning."