GAVCA

Programme Overview

Making Change is an imaginative, flexible and innovative learning programme for people who are passionate about their communities and want to make change - now and in the future. This programme is for those who are active in the local community, for volunteers, staff and trustees of small groups or large organisations, or for anyone who may have an idea they want to make happen.

Programme structure

The Making Change Programme is made up of 12 sessions (five half days and seven full days). Each session is focused on a subject, these subjects are: Equality and Diversity, Understanding Your Patch, Community Inspiration, Leadership, Ways to Make Change, Project Management, Equal Opportunities, Communication, and Values and Participation. You will also complete one day work experience and attend meetings with an assigned Mentor during the programme.

Commitment from Learners

This programme requires a high level of commitment from Learners. You will be given a Portfolio at the beginning of the programme to build upon session by session. You will also work on your own personal development and be asked to contribute towards an open, honest, non-biased working environment.  Our trainers and Programme Manager have experience of working with Learners from a variety of different backgrounds and abilities. Each Learner will be provided with the necessary support, information and guidance they require to reach their full learning potential.

Accreditation

The Making Change Programme has been certified by OCN Credit4Learning. All Learners have the option to enrol on this course and achieve an accreditation at Level 3 (equivalent to A-Level). This is not compulsory and the registration options will be discussed with you before the first session. Learners will also be given the option to complete two units at Level 3 for the Institute of Leadership and Management. These are in addition to the GAVCA Making Change units and you will receive information regarding their options at the first session. As the group will include those enrolled on the accredited option, the programme will be taught at the same level for all.

Portfolio

Your Portfolio will contain a registration form, learning outcomes (explaining what you will learn and how your work will be assessed), unit overviews and homework information. The homework is not compulsory for Learners who do not enroll on the accredited option. However, all Learners are encouraged to complete the homework for their own learning and development. The Programme Manager will explain all of this at the first session. At the end of the course, you are able to you’re your Portfolio.

Mentors

You will be allocated a Mentor at the beginning of the programme. The Mentors are from the Voluntary, Community and Public Sector throughout the county. Their role is to encourage, support and listen to your ideas,

Certification

At the end of the programme, you will receive a certificate - GAVCA Making Change certificate, ILM Leadership/ILM Communication or OCN Credit4 Learning – depending on the study option you enrolled on and work completed.

The Making Change programme for 2011 has finished, however, we are currently seeking funding to run the programme again in 2012. Keep an eye out for more information on this webpage, or join the GAVCA Training Mailing List by e-mailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

For more information on accreditation here at GAVCA, visit our Accredited Courses page.