CASE STUDY


CUTTING-EDGE GENOMICS PROJECT COLLABORATION AT EXETER COLLEGE


The field of genomics may be more usually associated with university research departments, but this has not stopped Exeter College collaborating on a project to increase understanding of this cutting-edge branch of molecular biology. Level 3 students at Exeter, studying STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) and non-STEM subjects, were involved in creating a good practice guide and an outreach workshop to increase public understanding of genomics, which is at the forefront of the fight against illness and disease. College students worked collaboratively with scientist Dr Gabrielle Wheway and science communication Masters student Louise Vennells at the University of the West of England to co-create the guide, which aimed to increase awareness of important advancements, such as CRISPR Gene Editing (a process for modifying DNA) and the possibilities that such technologies afford for future healthcare solutions. The resources were used to facilitate STEM Careers


Education Information Advice and Guidance workshops at the Annual Exeter College STEM Careers Fair, helping inspire learners to progress to higher levels of STEM study and careers in science, technology, engineering and maths-related industries. The guide is also being used to explain genomics and


developments like CRISPR to younger people in schools as part of careers education, information, advice and guidance (CEIAG) in STEM, and it will also be available at university open days. The Exeter students who took part reported improved knowledge and understanding of genetics. Beyond delivering outstanding teaching and learning experiences, the college works to deliver CEIAG enrichment and enhancement opportunities working with employers and key stakeholders across the South West. Exeter College won the 2018 ENTHUSE Award for STEM FE College of the Year. The ENTHUSE Awards are run by STEM Learning www.stem.org.uk


CASE STUDY TEACH TOO SUPPORTS CAREERS OPPORTUNITIES FOR STAFF, LEARNERS AND EMPLOYERS


By Lee Phillips Bishop Auckland College’s involvement with Teach Too has enabled us to reinforce and further develop our links with employers, especially those within our local labour market. We have reviewed and refocused our collaboration with a range of employers, including multi-national and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These include GlaxoSmithKline, Zumtobel, Dyson Ceramics and The Auckland Project. This project is heavily involved in the major regeneration activities for Bishop Auckland, which will lead to the creation of 600 new jobs in the area. The Teach Too programme has supported the development of our


partnership with The Auckland Project to allow us to provide extensive training to their volunteers, and existing and new employees. This will have far-reaching benefits to the local community, with reduced unemployment and a better skilled workforce. In the next steps, we are expanding and creating further opportunities for our teaching staff to participate in further training and development. In some cases this would enable them to be responsible for disseminating specialist training to upskill many staff in these organisations. Working closely with employers we have been able to ensure that our learning programmes are of a high quality and have substantial and current vocational specialist content. This unique opportunity has increased employer involvement in the input and design of individual programmes to enable us to develop our curriculum offer, including new apprenticeships and T Level development which are aligned to employer and workforce needs. We expect all of our staff to ensure their vocational knowledge, understanding and skills are current and valid. The project has helped to overcome barriers to this continued development. Many managers and staff have been able to secure opportunities with various employers to update their skills. For our learners these opportunities are instrumental in their development of sector specific knowledge and skills to improve their employability prospects in a highly competitive market.


Lee Phillips is head of quality for teaching and learning at Bishop Auckland College.


NEW MODULES FOR PRACTITIONERS DELIVERING CAREERS ADVICE TO SEND LEARNERS


By Teresa Carroll Two new training modules to support professionals working with young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are available through Foundation Online Learning (FOL). IAG Skills brings together into one place the information


careers practitioners need to offer support to learners with SEND. The Sources of Support toolkit provides further information on helping SEND learners achieve their aspirations, including access to work, traineeships and supported internships. The resources are aimed at improving careers education, information, advice and guidance (CEIAG) for SEND learners.


Promotional events for these new resources will be announced soon on the ETF website. They complement the range of free to access resources on FOL, including The Right Place toolkit developed in partnership with the Royal Mencap Society to help learners secure the most meaningful work placements. Visit the FOL website at www.foundationonline.org.uk


Teresa Carroll is head of wellbeing and social inclusion at the Education and Training Foundation.


inTUITIONTECHNICAL TEACHING • AUTUMN 2018 7


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