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Phase 1 (November 2004 - March 2005)
VCS Learning Links was launched in September 2005 as an online directory of voluntary and community sector (VCS) infrastructure bodies and networks across England that support learning and training.
The site was developed by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) with support from the National Association for Voluntary and Community Action (NAVCA - then NACVS) and the UK Workforce Hub. Initial funding was from the Department for Education and Skills (DfES).
The project objectives were to offer:
- details of VCS infrastructure organisations with a strong interest in learning and training;
- other information useful to organisations supporting learning and training in the VCS; and
- a means of sharing information and practice within and across regions, and nationally.
Directory entries are based on information submitted by organisations using a short questionnaire. All organisations had the chance to amend and verify their entry. Updating is continuous in response to information received.
Phase 2 (April 2005 - January 2007)
NIACE has updated and developed the site with funding and support from the UK Workforce Hub, and support from NAVCA.
Key changes in VCS Learning Links since its launch include:
- increased directory entries;
- annual review of directory entries to ensure accurate and up-to-date information;
- extended, user friendly resources section, including annotated web links, case studies, practitioner resources, relevant document references and search facility; and
- section dedicated to the new National VCS Learning Alliance and its development.
Please note - this work is ongoing. In particular, the Resources section is still under development.
The NIACE project team is:
- Cheryl Turner (Development Officer, Voluntary and Community Sector);
- Lorraine Casey (Research Assistant, Community Learning team);
- Daniel Seagrave (Web Developer, IT team).
Support from partner organisations is provided by Lynne Bryan (NAVCA) and Mark Freeman (UK Workforce Hub).