Lifelong Learning - Progress Report 2007/08

Proposed that the Community Planning targets and actions are changed to reflect those outlined in the Community Learning & Development Strategy, the Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) & English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Strategies together with regeneration targets to Close the Gap.

Other targets set by the Scottish Government, the Scottish Higher Education Funding Council & other funding bodies and targets which are specifically aimed at social inclusion, regeneration, lifelong learning & community involvement & participation will also be considered as part of a Balanced Scorecard approach.

There is also a recognition that we should work jointly with Aberdeenshire Lifelong Learning Forum at a regional level, including the potential to pool training and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) resources.

Achievement Through Learning for Children and Young People

This includes a focus on attainment, narrowing the gap and community regeneration. Attainment and narrowing the gap between the highest and the lowest attaining children continues to be a priority for Aberdeen City Council and its partners. Given the importance of the City's Regeneration Strategy and our commitment to the ommunity Regeneration Fund, it was felt that this theme should be given a high priority.

Achievement Through Learning for Adults

This area will continue to be a priority, particularly with our implementation of the third year of the new Strategy 'Working together to Close the Gap'.

Achievement Through Building Community Capacity

Increasing the level and quality of informed dialogue with citizens about the priorities for improvement and the future of their communities.

Support for Integrated Early Education and Childcare

Key themes are Integrating Children's Services and support for parents, carers and families.

Consultation and Communication

Improving the consultation, communication and engagement with key stakeholders continues to be an area for improvement in 2007-08, particularly in respect of community involvement, stakeholder participation and Closing the Gap between communities.

Key Partnerships and Strategies

Aberdeen College and Aberdeen City Council Community Learning Development
City Strategist and Development Officer (Adult Learning) meets regularly with College staff. Partnership Agreement requires to be reviewed in March 2009. College represented on the Lifelong Learning Forum (LLF).

Aberdeen City Council Schools/Careers Partnership Agreement
Both represented on the LLF.

Community Learning and Development Strategy and Regeneration Strategy
Underpins focus of Forum. Community Planning & Regeneration Strategic Leadership represented on the LLF.

Literacies Partnership
Sub group of LLF.

More Choices More Chances Strategy
Implemented by sub group of LLF.

North Forum
Represented on LLF and LLF facilitator attends North Forum meetings.

Joint Health Improvement Plan (JHIP)
Informs the work of the Forum. NHS Grampian represented on Forum.