6 July 2011

Pact is in full swing with the Careerforce Innovations Scheme, with outside organisations keeping staff up-to-date with the National Certificate in Community Support Work.

Pact’s Dion MacLeod, the training coordinator for outside agencies, has been kept busy implementing the Careerforce framework. He has been familiarising himself with how each organisation is run and pouring over policies and procedures in the process.

"I need to be aware of the specific policies and procedures so candidates are assessed on what is unique to their work place and practice."

A keen group of 12 people from Living Options in Alexandra are well on their way to securing a national qualification through Pact’s Innovation Scheme. For many, this is the first time they have approached any type of study since leaving school and there were some well-chewed fingernails witnessed before the first assessments were completed. Now they have passed a few units, their initial fears have been overcome and they are beginning to enjoy their learning.

A study group has been formed where all the trainees get together to go through the workbooks. This has evolved into an open discussion where people feel they have a chance to talk about all aspects of their work and hear others’ experiences. Dion is travelling to Alexandra once a month to complete assessments and says the warm hospitality from the Alexandra crew is always welcome.

Along with Living Options, Mt Cargill Trust, Connections, and Corstorphine Baptist Care Trust all have staff undertaking training with the help of Pact. The trainees have reported back that it is quite satisfying having their work skills recognised in a formal way. Many have said they are enjoying the challenge and approaching their work with new-found enthusiasm.

Pact will continue to recruit interested parties to the Innovations Scheme with the long term aim of having outside agencies with a skilled workforce who can deliver the training in-house.