Appendix 4: Merger Proposal - Organisation & Learner Development
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3 ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FOR LEARNING & TEACHING
It is recognised that the support infrastructure available to learners within the merged college is likely to
be an increasingly important aspect of college provision. This is influenced by the changing profile of
FE learners and driven by:
o Social inclusion & widening access strategies as embedded in Scottish Governments Skills
Strategy; 'Learning for All'; MCMC; 16+ Learning Choices; Curriculum for Excellence and
related initiatives
o Equalities agenda
o DDA legislation
o Revised funding model for 'needs led assessment'
o The changing external environment (economy & demographics)
o The merged College's mission & vision
3.1 Existing Strengths
Major strengths exist in 'Supporting the Learner' with recent HMIe inspections awarding grades of
'Very Good' for Guidance and Support at all colleges. All staff involved in providing support place
the learner at the heart of the decision making process and actively encourage learner involvement
via the Student Association, the many avenues for staff student liaison and College Committees.
Merger is seen as an opportunity to share resources and glean best practice from all three
Colleges, incorporating the best aspects from both models to create an improved holistic service
for all learners.
There is much to commend amongst the current good practice within the partner colleges although
operational models and volume of provision have been recognised as differing. At the heart of this
area is the fundamental commitment to supporting the learner through the learning & teaching
process with the aim of ensuring that learning resources are accessible and that each individual is
supported in realising their own potential.