Bringing Learning Closer to Home

The Community University of the Valleys is a unique partnership between Universities and Community Organisations in South Wales. We work together to bring learning closer to home, delivering courses at community venues and listening to learners and community workers to ensure opportunities meet the needs of all sections of our communities.

We offer very accessible options to gain university qualifications and improve skills for life and work. We work with many rural and isolated communities, to develop innovative community based learning, from informal activities through to degree level study.

The Community University of the Valleys Partnership is a widening access initiative led by the Department of Adult Continuing Education (DACE) at Swansea University.

Our Approach

Developing curriculum with communities

We aim to provide a learning experience that is flexible, supportive, interesting and meaningful. Learning that is negotiated and influenced by the needs of learners. Learning that supports both personal and community development and raises people's aspirations of what they can achieve.

 

Learning from research

We support excellence in research and provide resources for research into issues affecting adult learners. By understanding the needs of learners and communities, we can making learning fit the skill needs and interests of communities and employers.

Ensuring Quality

We believe in achieving excellence in community learning. Our Code of Practice Aiming High encourages learning providers to sign up to:

• Shared ethos of good practice in community learning
• Common approach to the community curriculum
• Quality support services for community learners
• Well equipped and accessible community learning centres

Raising Awareness

We work together to provide information on community based higher learning. We also work together on research, events, promotional materials and good practice publications.

• Partnership Website
• Conferences and seminars
• Annual Lecture
• Publications
• Exhibitions

Developing Skills

We work together to share resources. We aim to support continuing professional development of all staff within partner organisations and organise training events for staff and volunteers.

Promoting Equal Opportunities

We beieve that community learning opportunities should be accessible to all and aim to improve access to learning by excluded groups. Areas of focus include:

Valuing Cultural Diversity

• Race, Gender and Disability Awareness
• Support for Learners with Disabilities
• Sharing Resources and Expertise

We are committed to working in partnership for the benefit of learners and communities;ensuring university resources benefit communities within the region. Through community partnerships we can build appropriate services, making steps into higher learning a reality for local people.

 

This web-site has been produced with the support of the European Social Fund Objective 1.

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