Testimonials for 'Leading community learning' (Certificate, Diploma, MA)

'Having the opportunity to listen to and learn from some of the most respected practitioners in education has been a real privilege. People like Professor Charles Desforges, John West-Burnham, Bernard Davies and Alan Dyson have influenced education substantially over the last decades with grounded theoretical perspectives and practice.  ...  The course has helped me to develop into a reflective practitioner and has also helped me move my thinking to a level where I am confident to take risks in my professional practice.'

(Ema Kirbyson, Extended Services Co-ordinator, Worcestershire County Council)

'This programme has been of great value to me, both professionally and personally. It has allowed me to understand the perspectives of other professionals working in the field, as well as analysing and evaluating the wider context of the Extended Services agenda. I am now able to critically review research and policy reports, and I've also become adept at designing and carrying out small pieces of research in my workplace. I've particularly enjoyed the diverse taught sessions, which always lead to stimulating and informed discussions taking place. I feel that the excellent support I've received since joining the programme has helped me to go from strength to strength.'

(Jo Fisher, Early Learning and Childcare Development Team Manager, East Midlands Local Authority)

'Personally, the course has helped me fulfill an ambition. I do not have a degree and the course has enabled me to prove to myself that I am capable of studying at that level. Professionally, I have been able to put the issues I have researched into practice. For example, I have put into place new evaluation methods and procedures as a result of the research and assignment I produced whilst studying for the Certificate. ... I think the course has given me increased confidence to take on more responsibility in my professional context. When I started the course I was on secondment in an extended schools role and two and a half years later I am now running a community interest organisation.'

(Denise Rushton, Chief Executive Officer, Make a Difference Community Interest Company)