Blaenau Gwent Adult Education Service

Courses for Adults2012 - 2013

for learners

taking control

Art & Craft • Basic Skills • Computers • General Education • Languages • Independent Living Skills

BLAENAU GWENTCOMMUNITYlearning partnership

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Welcome...... to the Blaenau Gwent LearningPartnership Brochure2012 - 2013

The Partnership Brochure takes on a new look this year, as a direct response to theopinions of our learners. A Learner Involvement event took place in May, where wesought the views of our service users. As a result the new brochure for 2012/13 ismuch more user friendly, and showcases the new and exciting programmes on offer.

The Welsh Government gave a clear direction for Adult Community Learning (ACL)in their 2010 policy statement “Delivering Community Learning for Wales”. The focusfor ACL is to work in partnership with other organisations delivering CommunityLearning, to provide the highest quality service.

Adult Community Learning has an important role to play in supporting skillsdevelopment for use in the workplace, in wider community development activitiesand enabling progression to Further or Higher Education. It also provides hugebenefits for individuals, families, and their communities by opening up new learningpathways and promoting social justice, health and well-being.

Blaenau Gwent is a member of the Five Counties Strategic Partnership which workstogether to deliver the Welsh Government’s priorities, and to provide a range ofcourses and opportunities to meet the needs of the individual.

This year’s programmes are designed to provide a wide range of learning opportunitiesfor all communities in Blaenau Gwent. However, if you would like to make anysuggestions for future courses please contact us. So, with this is mind, we would liketo wish you good luck in your future Learning.BLAENAU GWENT

COMMUNITYlearning partnership

Dave WilkshireExecutive Member for Leisure and Young People

Sylvia LindoeDirector of Education and Leisure Services

ContentsWelcome 2

Blaenau Gwent Learning Action Centres and satellites 4

Who can help? 5

General Information 6

Community Learning Partnership 7

Courses 8

Welsh Courses 20

Language Courses 22

Independent Living Skills 23

Working Skills for Adults 24

Tai Calon 25

Genesis Cymru - Wales 27

Family Learning 28

Life Membership 29

Learner’s Award Ceremony 30

Blaenau Gwent Libraries 31

WEA Courses 32

University in your Community 35

New for September 2012 36

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Blaenau GwentLearning Action Centres

Abertillery LearningAction CentreAlma St,Abertillery.NP13 1YL01495 355895

Abertillery Community Educationand Youth CentreStation Hill,Abertillery.NP13 1TE01495 212735

Blaina Learning Action CentreThe Institute,High StBlaina NP13 3BN01495 355807

Brynmawr LearningAction CentreMarket Square,Brynmawr.NP23 4AJ01495 355595

Brynteg Community Educationand Youth CentreBrynteg Terrace,Ebbw Vale.NP23 6NAc/o 01495 357834

Ebbw Vale LearningAction CentreJames St,Ebbw Vale NP 23 6JG01495 303544

Rassau Resource CentreSchool Road, Rassau,Ebbw Vale NP23 5PPTel 01495 309951

Tredegar Community Educationc/o The LibraryThe Circle,Tredegar NP223PS01495 357834

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Head of Learning ServicesByron Jones 01495 355608

Adult Education ManagersKathy Smith 01495 303544

kathy.smith@blaenau-gwent.gov.ukSheila Daycock 01495 355896

sheila.daycock@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

Assistant Adult Education ManagersKaren Bennett 01495 303544

karen.bennett@blaenau-gwent.gov.ukJulie Sussex 01495 355595

julie.sussex@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

Class Start Dates week commencing36 week courses start on 10th Sept 2012

30 week courses start on 17th Sept 2012

EnrolmentEnrolments commencing from 1st August.

Please call centre for details.

For more information contact the centre which isholding the course.

Abertillery LAC 01495 355895Blaina LAC 01495 355807Brynmawr LAC 01495 355595Ebbw Vale LAC 01495 303544Brynteg / Tredegar 01495 357834Rassau RC 01495 309951

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Who Can Help?

GeneralInformation

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Course Fees and ChargesMost courses are subject to charges, which are dependent on your personalfinancial circumstances and are made up of course fees, accreditation costs and asmall membership fee. Concessions on course fees may be available to those on alow income, or in receipt of certain means tested benefits, on production ofdocumentary evidence. Failure to produce suitable documentation on enrolment,will result in full course fees being charged. For more information on fees andcharges please contact any Learning Action Centre, where one of our friendly,experienced staff will be happy to discuss your personal case in a confidentialenvironment.

CoursesAll course lists are accurate at the time of going to print. However, short coursesacross a range of subjects including Sports Massage, Holistic Therapy, Art, SignLanguage, Bilingual and Welsh medium courses are planned during the 12/13academic year.For further information on new courses log ontowww.blaenau-gwent.gov.ukand click onto Adult and Community Learning.

Course CancellationCourses will run subject to a minimum number of students enrolling. If thisnumber is not met:

1.The course may be cancelled, prior to the first meeting. In this case studentswho have enrolled will be given a full refund.

2.The course may meet for the first 3 weeks, to see if the target numbers may beattained. If not, students will be offered a full refund or may transfer to analternative course.

Student Charter

Blaenau Gwent Adult Education Service is committed to ensuring that all students

receive the highest quality service. This includes the quality of teaching, the comfort

and safety of students and the equipment provided. If you are unhappy with any

aspect of the service provided to you, please contact the Centre Manager or Assistant

Manager.

Student Support

If you would like to improve your study skills, or would like help with your English and

Maths, please contact your Centre for details of the free help available.

Emergency Class Closure

In the event of a class being closed, due to bad weather or tutor illness, every effort will

be made to inform students, and the class will be held at a later date. Please make

sure that you inform your centre of any change to your contact details, particularly a

mobile phone number where possible.

Substitute Tutor

Blaenau Gwent CBC reserves the right to substitute a tutor if necessary.

Student Refusal / Dismissal

Blaenau Gwent CBC reserves the right to refuse any student, and to dismiss any

student behaving in an improper manner.

Data Protection Act

Enrolment information will be computerised and used for administrative purposes, in

accordance with the requirements of the Act.

Insurance

Blaenau Gwent CBC does not accept responsibility for the loss or damage of students’

property. Students must take reasonable care for any personal items, which they may

bring to class, arrange suitable insurance for any personal items and are advised not to

leave belongings unattended.

Errors

The information given in this brochure is correct to the best of our knowledge, when

going to print. Blaenau Gwent CBC reserves the right to make any necessary

amendments.

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Blaenau Gwent

Community LearningPartnership

BLAENAU GWENTCOMMUNITYlearning partnership

Community Learning within Blaenau Gwent is offered by apartnership of providers from the public, private andvoluntary sectors. Together the providers aim to meet theneeds of the people in the local community by offering a widerange of accessible, flexible learning experiences, maximisingresources and minimising duplication where ever possible.

The Partnership is also committed to excellence and the principle of

continuous improvement to ensure a high quality, enjoyable learning

experience where high standards can be achieved.

If you require further information on the Blaenau Gwent Community

Learning Partnership, please contact Ceri Waters on 01495 309951or e mail ceri.waters@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

Dyffryn TrainingDyffryn Training is a social enterprise providing a varietyof training, consultancy and facilitation services toclients across the public, private andvoluntary/community sectors.

We are an Agored Cymru recognised centre and can provideboth accredited courses and qualifications across a number ofsectors.

There is also a range of unaccredited training courses that canbe delivered ’off the shelf’, and we will also design and deliverbespoke, tailored training in consultation with a clientorganisation.

We deliver training in relation to employment and haveworked with employment agencies and intermediate labourmarket programmes in providing accredited and unaccredited,formal and informal, learning to their customers.

We are based at in Ebbw Vale, but are able to deliver ourservices and work across a much wider geographic area.

To find out more, discuss your requirements or request aquote please contact the Training Manager, Carol MadgwickTel: 01495 352253e-mail: carol.madgwick@evad.org.uk

Dyffryn Training, EVAD454 Church StreetEbbw Vale, NP23 6BG

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Art & Craft Courses

CLASS DAY TIME WEEKS CENTRE

Art for All Tues 9.30-11.30am 30 Ebbw Vale LACArt for All Tues 12-2pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACCake Decoration for All Wed 6.30-8.30pm 30 Blaina LACCake Decoration for Beginners Tues 6.30-8.30pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACCake Decoration for Beginners Tues 7-9pm 30 Abertillery LACCake Decoration for Beginners Wed 10-12 noon 30 Ebbw Vale LACCake Decoration for Beginners Thur 7-9pm 30 Brynmawr LACCake Decoration for Improvers Mon 7-9pm 30 Abertillery LACCake Decoration for Improvers Thur 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACChristmas Crafts Fri 10-12 noon 8 from 12/10/12 Blaina LACEncaustic Art for Beginners Mon 1-3pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACEncaustic Art for Beginners Tues 3.30-5.30pm 30 Blaina LACEncaustic Art for Beginners Thur 7-9pm 8 from 20/09/12 Brynmawr LACFloristry Tues 6.30-8.30pm 30 Brynmawr LACFloristry Thur 2-4pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACFloristry, Gift Wrapping and Bow Making Wed 6.30-8.30pm 30 Blaina LACGuitar for Beginners Mon 7-9pm 30 Abertillery LACGuitar for Improvers Tues 7-9pm 30 Abertillery LACMixed Crafts Thur 1-3pm 30 Brynmawr LACMixed Crafts Fri 1-3pm 30 Abertillery LACMusical Keyboarding Thur 10-12 noon 30 Abertillery Youth CentrePainting and Drawing Tues 4-6pm 30 Abertillery LACPainting and Drawing Tues 7-9pm 30 Abertillery LACPatchwork and Quilting for Beginners/Improvers Mon 2.30-4.30pm 30 Blaina LACPatchwork and Quilting for Beginners/Improvers Tues 2.30-4.30pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACPatchwork and Quilting Intermediate Mon 12.30-2.30pm 30 Blaina LACPrintmaking for Beginners Mon 7-9pm 8 from 17/09/12 Ebbw Vale LAC

See General Education section for courses in Hair Care, HolisticTherapies and Organic & Wildlife Gardening

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Advanced Food Hygiene Tues 6.30-9pm 15 from 15/1/13 Abertillery LACBasic Food Hygiene Tues 6.30-9pm 3 from 2/10/12 Abertillery LACBasic Food Hygiene Tues 6.30-9pm 3 from 13/11/12 Tredegar LibraryBasic Food Hygiene Wed 6.30-9pm 3 from 16/1/13 Ebbw Vale LACBasic Food Hygiene Fri 9am-4.30pm 19th October 2012 Ebbw Vale LACBasic Food Hygiene Fri 9am-4.30pm 8th March 2013 Brynmawr LACIntermediate Food Hygiene Wed 6.30-9pm 10 from 3/10/12 Ebbw Vale LAC

CLASS DAY TIME WEEKS CENTRE

Food Hygiene Courses

Additional Basic Food HygieneCourses (Level 2) will be held

subject to demand.

Tel 01495 303544for further information.

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Computer Courses

Computer courses for beginners and improvers are run by friendly experienced tutors, both in the day and evening. Blaenau Gwent IT Centres arelocated in Libraries and Learning Action Centres in the heart of the community.

QualificationsWe are approved OCR, BCS (ECDL) and City & Guilds centres offering a wide range of nationally recognised qualification in IT where you will:

Learn new IT skillsImprove your IT skillsGain qualifications for employment opportunitiesGain an up-to-date qualificationKeep up with new technologyImprove confidence in using IT

E-type? (BCS)

ECDLBCS Levels 1 & 2

ECDL Advanced

OCR ITQ Level 1

Why should people learn to touch type?Because it is a much faster and more accurate way of typing. Why use just two fingers when you can use allof them? Why stare down at the keyboard all the time when you can sit up straight, keep your eyes on thescreen and let your fingers flow across the keyboard?

The European Computer Driving Licence® (ECDL) is the internationally recognized qualification which enablespeople to demonstrate their competence in computer skills. ITQ Levels 1 & 2 are designed specifically forthose who wish to gain a benchmark qualification in computing to enable them to develop their IT skills andenhance their career prospects.

ECDL Advanced and Flexiquals Level 3 both offer a full Level 3 certificate which cover advanced features ofthe MS Office software.

This is a stage 1 course for all age groups who wish to access and develop their skills in ICT for education,employment and recreation. Chose from a selection of software ie MS Word 2007, MS Excel.

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Computer Courses

OCR ITQ Level 2

Business ProfessionalText ProcessingLevels 1 -3

City & Guilds ComputerMaintenance Level 1

City & Guilds ComputerMaintenance Level 2

New for 2012

Sage Level 1

This is a stage 2 course from which you can gain an award or certificate. Covers the skills used to use IT atwork with confidence. Chose from a selection of software ie MS Word 2007, MS Excel.

These courses are suitable for those who are studying in preparation for employment in text processing andadministrative-related job roles. They will also be suitable for those who are already employed in such rolesand who wish to develop their knowledge and expertise in this area.

Gain an understanding of how the pc works and building your own pc.

Gain a knowledge of networking and visual basic

This computerised qualification is suitable for those who are studying in preparation for employment inbookkeeping job roles. It is also suitable for those who are already employed in bookkeeping/dataprocessing roles and who wish to develop their skills and for recreational use. It provides high quality,nationally recognised qualifications.

Learners will also have the option to complete a manual Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping Skills.

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Computer Courses

OCN (Agored Crymu)

This is the course for you if you don’t want to sit exams but want to:

Learn new IT skills

Improve your IT skills

Learn IT skills to keep up with your children/grandchildren

Keep up with new technology

Build a portfolio for reference

Improve confidence in using IT

Entry LevelLevel 1Level 2Level 3

New for 2012

Introduction to SocialNetworking

Online Auction Sites andE-Commerce

Image manipulation usingAdobe Essentials

These courses are designed to show knowledge, skills and understanding of a selection of software packagesfrom which you build a portfolio. The portfolio will contain a collection of naturally occurring evidence takenfrom various activities to sufficiently show you have completed all the tasks successfully. Depending on whenyou enrol for your course and what you want to gain from the course you will complete up to 12 credits fromthe units listed. Also short courses offering a range of “taster” units are available.

Courses include: e-mail & the Internet, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, database, web pages,managing files, keyboard skills, digital photography and many more…

You will learn how to communicate via Facebook, Twitter, Skype, email etc and including the need forsecurity and privacy.

Find out how to buy and sell items using an online auction site eg e-bay and includes the need for relevantsecurity and privacy.

Enhancing digital images, 3-D titling, transferring images from your cameras, phones, scanners to yourcomputer. (Blaina LAC)

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Computer Maintenance for Beginners Tues 2.30-4.30pm 30 Abertillery Youth and CommunityC&G Level 1 Education CentreComputer Maintenance for Beginners Tues 12-2pm 30 Brynteg Youth and CommunityC&G Level 1 Education CentreComputer Maintenance Year 3 C&G Level2 Wed 12.30-2.30pm 30 Abertillery Youth and Community

Education CentreDecoupage using IT Thurs 11.30-1.30pm 5 from 8/11/12 Brynmawr LACDigital Imaging Level 1 Thurs 1-3pm 30 Blaina LACDigital Image Creation Level 2 Fri 4-6pm 30 Brynmawr LACDigital Image Manipulation Level 1 Tues 2-4pm 30 Brynmawr LACE-Commerce Fri 10-12.30 6 from 21/09/12 Abertillery LACE-Commerce Thurs 10-12.30 6 from 20/09/12 Blaina LACE-Commerce Thurs 6.30-9pm 6 from 20/09/12 Brynmawr LACE-Commerce Tues 2-4.30pm 6 from 18/9/12 Ebbw Vale LACE-Commerce Wed 2-4.30 6 from 18/09/12 Tredegar LibraryIT for All Mon 11.30-1.30pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACIT for All Mon 11.30-1.30pm 30 Tredegar LibraryIT for All Tues 9.15-11.15am 30 Abertillery LibraryIT for All Tues 9.15-11.15am 30 Ebbw Vale LACIT for All Tues 9.15-11.15pm 30 Tredegar LibraryIT for All Tues 9.30-11.30am 30 Rassau Resource CentreIT for All Tues 11.30-1.30pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACIT for All Tues 2-4pm 30 Abertillery LibraryIT for All Tues 7-9pm 30 Blaina LACIT for All Wed 10-12noon 30 Abertillery LibraryIT for All Wed 10-12 noon 30 Blaina LACIT for All Wed 10-12 noon 30 Rassau Resource Centre

CLASS DAY TIME WEEKS CENTRE

Computer Courses

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IT for All Wed 11.30-1.30pm 30 Brynmawr LACIT for All Wed 11.30-1.30pm 30 Tredegar LibraryIT for All Wed 1-3pm 30 Blaina LACIT for All Wed 2-4pm 30 Brynmawr LACIT for All Wed 2-4pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACIT for All Wed 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACIT for All Thurs 11.30-1.30pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACIT for All Fri 9.30-11.30pm 30 Rassau Resource CentreIT for All Fri 11.30-1.30pm 30 Rassau Resource CentreIT for All- Summer School Tues 9.15-11.45am 6 from 28/5/13 Abertillery LibraryIT for All- Summer School Tues 9.15-11.45am 6 from 4/06/13 Tredegar LibraryIT for All- Summer School Tues 9.30-12 noon 6 from 4/06/13 Rassau Resource CentreIT for All- Summer School Wed 10-12.30pm 6 from 29/05/13 Blaina LACIT for All- Summer School Wed 11.30-2pm 6 from 5/06/13 Brynmawr LACIT for All- Summer School Wed 1-3.30pm 6 from 29/05/13 Blaina LACIT for All- Summer School Thurs 11.30-2pm 6 from 06/06/13 Ebbw Vale LACIT for All- Summer School Fri 9.30-12 noon 6 from 7/06/13 Rassau Resource CentreIT for Qualifications Mon 9.15-11.15am 36 Ebbw Vale LACIT for Qualifications Mon 9.15-11.15am 36 Tredegar LibraryIT for Qualifications Mon 10-12 noon 36 Abertillery LibraryIT for Qualifications Mon 1-3pm 36 Abertillery LibraryIT for Qualifications Tues 11.30-1.30pm 36 Abertillery LibraryIT for Qualifications Tues 7-9pm 36 Brynmawr LACIT for Qualifications Tues 7-9pm 36 Ebbw Vale LACIT for Qualifications Wed 9.15-11.15am 36 Brynmawr LACIT for Qualifications Wed 9.15-11.15am 36 Ebbw Vale LACIT for Qualifications Wed 11.30-1.30pm 36 Ebbw Vale LAC

CLASS DAY TIME WEEKS CENTRE

Computer Courses

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IT for Qualifications Wed 7-9pm 36 Abertillery LibraryIT for Qualifications Wed 7-9pm 36 Blaina LACIT for Qualifications Wed 7-9pm 36 Brynmawr LACIT for Qualifications Thurs 9.15-11.15pm 36 Brynmawr LACIT for Qualifications Thurs 9.15-11.15pm 36 Ebbw Vale LACIT for Qualifications (Text Processing) Thurs 10-12 noon 36 Abertillery LibraryIT for Qualifications Thurs 12.30-2.30pm 36 Abertillery LibraryIT for Qualifications Thurs 7-9pm 36 Blaina LACIT for Qualifications Fri 1-3pm 36 Abertillery LibrarySage Accounting L1 Thurs 2-4pm 36 Ebbw Vale LACSage Accounting L1 Thurs 7-9pmpm 36 Ebbw Vale LACSocial Networking Tues 2-4.30pm 6 from 6/11/12 Ebbw Vale LACSocial Networking Thurs 10-12.30pm 6 from 8/11/12 Blaina LACSocial Networking Thurs 6.30-9pm 6 from 8/11/12 Brynmawr LACSocial Networking Fri 10-12.30pm 6 from 9/11/12 Abertillery LibrarySocial Networking Wed 2-4.30pm 6 from 7/11/12 Tredegar Library

CLASS DAY TIME WEEKS CENTRE

Computer Courses

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CLASS DAY TIME WEEKS CENTRE

General Education and Training

Admin Skills level 1 Fri 10-1pm 10 from14/09/12 Brynmawr LACAdmin Skills level 1 Fri 10-1pm 10 from 11/01/13 Abertillery LACAdmin Skills level 1 Fri 10-12.30pm 12 from 12/04/13 Ebbw Vale LACAS level English Wed 6-9pm 30 Abertillery LACAromatherapy for Beginners Tues 1-3pm 10 from 18/09/12 Blaina LACCounselling for Beginners Level 1 Thur 6.30-9pm 6 from 20/09/12 Ebbw Vale LACCounselling Level 2 * Mon 6.30-8.30pm 30 Brynmawr LACCounselling Level 2* Wed 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LAC

*Students of Counselling Level 2 will be given the option to enrol on a short course at the end of level 2, to gain further credits, whichwill give them direct access to the AQA Level 4 Counselling Course at the University of Wales Newport (pre - practitioner level).

GCSE English Thur 6.30-9pm 30 Abertillery LACGCSE English Wed 9.30-12 noon 30 Ebbw Vale LACGCSE Maths Foundation Tier Wed 6.30-9pm 30 Abertillery LACGCSE Maths Foundation Tier Wed 6.30-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACGCSE Maths Higher Tier Mon 6.30-9pm 30 Brynmawr LacHair Care for Beginners Mon 10-12 noon 30 Abertillery LACHair Care year 2 Mon 12.30-2.30pm 30 Abertillery LACHair Care for Beginners/Improvers Tues 1-3pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACHair Care for Beginners Wed 10-12 noon 30 Blaina LACHair Care year 2 Wed 12.30-2.30pm 30 Blaina LACHair Care for Beginners Fri 10-12 noon 30 Brynmawr LACImprove your English Mon 9.15-11.15 36 Tredegar LibraryImprove your English Tues 10-12 noon 36 Brynmawr LACImprove your English Tues 10-12 noon 36 Ebbw Vale LACImprove your English Tues 7-9pm 36 Brynmawr LAC

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Improve your English Tues 7-9pm 36 Ebbw Vale LACImprove your English Thur 7-9pm 36 Abertillery LACImprove your English Fri 10-12 noon 36 Ebbw Vale LACImprove your Maths Mon 11.30-1.30pm 36 Tredegar LibraryImprove your Maths Mon 1.30-3.30pm 36 Abertillery LACImprove your Maths Tues 9.15-11.15 36 Ebbw Vale LACImprove your Maths Tues 11.30-1.30pm 36 Ebbw Vale LACImprove your Maths Wed 6-8pm 36 Abertillery LACImprove your Maths Fri 10-12 noon 36 Ebbw Vale LACImprove your Maths Fri 4-6pm 36 Brynmawr LACOrganic and Wildlife Gardening Fri 10-12 noon 30 Abertillery Youth CentrePhotography C&G 7511 Wed 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACPre GCSE Maths Thur 7-9pm 36 Ebbw Vale LACSign Language – An Introduction TBC TBC 8 Ebbw Vale LAC

Tel 01495 303544 for more infoSign Language OCN level 1 Mon 10-12 noon 30 Ebbw Vale LACSign Language OCN level 1 Mon 7-9pm 30 Abertillery LACSign Language Level 1 Signature Tues 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACSign Language Level OCN 1 Wed 7-9pm 30 Tredegar LibrarySign Language Level 1 Signature Thurs 7-9pm 30 Tredegar Library

CLASS DAY TIME WEEKS CENTRE

General Education and Training

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Cache Level 2 Supporting Teaching and Wed 6-9pm 36 Brynmawr LACLearning in SchoolsCache Level 2 Supporting Teaching and Fri 9-12 noon 36 Abertillery LACLearning in SchoolsCache Level 3 Teaching and Learning in Schools Thurs 7-9pm 30 Brynmawr LAC

CLASS DAY TIME WEEKS CENTRE

General Education and Training

Training for Teaching Assistants

The CACHE level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools is suitable for anyone considering employment as a teaching assistant orfor practising teaching assistants who do not have a formal qualification. The course covers the skills and knowledge needed to carry out the role ofa teaching assistant who will be working under the supervision of a class teacher.

The CACHE level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools is a progression course for anyone who has already completed a level 2course or who is a practising teaching assistant wishing to gain a level 3 qualification. At award level, the course provides an understanding of theknowledge needed when working directly with children or young people in a school environment. There are progression routes to certificate anddiploma courses at Coleg Gwent for those who wish to build on the award to further develop their skills and competence.

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Don’t worry - we’ll teach you what methods are used in schools these

days AND help you to update your English and Maths skills.

We will show you how to set up an e-mail account and help you

with internet job searches. We can help you gain an IT qualification,

show you how to use office equipment and improve your telephone

skills.

Don’t let that stop you! We can help you to set up your own email

address and apply for jobs online

I want to help my child but I’ve forgotten

everything I learned in school

If I improve my computer and office skills

I can get a better job

I don’t know how to apply for jobs online!

For more information, contact the Basic Skills Team on 01495 309951

or just drop in at your nearest Skills Club

Abertillery Youth and Community Centre Wed 9.30-12.30

Integrated Children’s Centre, Blaina Wed 9.30-11.30

Ebbw Vale Learning Action Centre Fri 10.00-1.00

Rassau Resource Centre Tues 2.30-4.30

Tredegar Library Mon 10.00-1.00

What is a Skills Club?• A place where you can learn at your own pace • drop in when it suits you •learn new skills • brush up on forgotten skills: English, Maths, Computers, CVsand Job Applications

Skills Clubs

Free childcare is availablebut must be arranged in advance.

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Mynediad / Entry levelThe emphasis is very much on conversational Welsh. By the end of thislevel, you should be able to hold everyday conversations in Welsh anddiscuss:personal details, events in the past, needs and likes, commands, futureevents, time and money.Mynediad 1 – the first 15 units of the Mynediad course book will becoveredMynediad 2 – units 16 – 30 will be covered.Wlpan 1 (Intensive courses) – 30 units will be covered in the first year

Sylfaen / Foundation levelYou will expand on your speaking skills and should feel comfortablediscussing everyday topics such as the family, work and hobbies aftercompleting this level. Once again, the emphasis is on speaking thelanguage but you also get the opportunity to do some reading andwriting.Sylfaen 1 – the first 15 units of the Sylfaen course book will be coveredSylfaen 2 – units 16 – 30 will be coveredWlpan 2 (Intensive courses) – 30 units will be covered in the first year

Canolradd / Intermediate levelThe aim of this level is to get as much speaking practice as possible, butsome listening, reading and writing work is introduced. After completingthis level you should have the confidence to discuss everyday activities.Your listening and reading skills will also develop, and you should be ableto write letters and complete forms confidently.Canolradd 1 – the first 15 units of the Canolradd course book will becoveredCanolradd 2 – units 16 – 30 will be coveredCanolradd 1/2 (Intensive courses) – 30 units will be covered in the firstyear.

Uwch / Higher levelYou will continue to concentrate on oral skills and be able to speakfluently in a social and professional context. Also you will be able tounderstand extended oral Welsh in formal and informal contexts. Thesecourses also help you write competently.Uwch step 1 a 2 – will follow the Cwrs Uwch 1 course bookUwch step 3 a 4 – will follow the Cwrs Uwch 2 course book

Progression route from beginners to fluency

Intensive 3/4 hours a week

Leisurely 2 hours a week

Welsh Courses

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 *It is possible to change tracks when proceeding to the nextlevel - paths usually merge for the advanced level classes andmay vary in contact hours.

Hyfedredd / ProficiencyMae’r lefel hon ar gyfer siaradwyr (iaith gyntaf neu ail iaith) a dysgwyr rhugl sydd am loywi eu sgiliau llafar trwy gyfoethogi geirfa a thrafod pynciau arbenigol a sgiliau ysgrifenedigtrwy ddysgu ysgrifennu’n gywir ac yn raenus. Yn dilyn rhai agweddau o’r ffeil Hyfedredd yn ogystal â defnyddio deunyddiau addas o ffynonellau amrywiol.

Whatever course you decide to follow, you’ll be sure to have a great time! Remember, learning Welsh is fun!

**

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Mynediad 1 Tues 1-3pm 30 Abertillery LACMynediad 1 Wed 9.30-11.30am 30 Blaina LACMynediad 1 Wed 7-9pm 30 Abertillery LACMynediad 1 Thur 9.30-11.30am 30 Ebbw Vale LACMynediad 2 Wed 7-9pm 30 Blaina LACMynediad 2 Thur 2-4pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACMynediad 2 Thur 6.30-8.30pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACSylfaen 1 Mon 6.45-8.45pm 30 Abertillery LACSylfaen 1 Thur 9.30-11.30am 30 Ebbw Vale LACSylfaen 2 Tues 9.30-11.30am 30 Blaina LACSylfaen 2 Thur 7-9pm 30 Tredegar LibraryCanolradd 1 Wed 9.30-11.30am 30 Brynmawr LACCanolradd 1 Thur 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACPontio Tues 9.30-11.30am 30 Ebbw Vale LACPontio Wed 7-9pm 30 Tredegar LibraryUwch 2 Mon 6-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LAC

Welsh Day School Sat 10-4pm 20/10/12 Abertillery LACWelsh Day School Sat 10-4pm 11/05/13 Ebbw Vale LAC

CLASS DAY TIME WEEKS CENTRE

Welsh Courses

Walk with Iolo forWelsh Learners

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French for Beginners Mon 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACFrench for Beginners Tues 10-12noon 30 Brynmawr LACFrench year 2 Tues 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACGerman year 2 Thur 10-12 noon 30 Brynmawr LACItalian for Beginners Thur 1-3pm 30 Brynmawr LACSpanish for Beginners tbc 7-9pm 30 Abertillery LACSpanish for Beginners Mon 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACSpanish year 2 Tues 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACSpanish year 4 Thur 10-12 noon 30 Ebbw Vale LACSpanish year 6 Tues 7-9pm 30 Ebbw Vale LACSpanish year 7 Fri 10-12 noon 30 Brynmawr LAC

Wed 10-12 noon 36 Abertillery LACMon 7-9pm 36 Brynmawr LACTues 7-9pm 36 Brynmawr LACWed 7-9pm 36 Ebbw Vale LACFri 5.30-7.30pm 36 Ebbw Vale LACThurs 6.30-8.30pm 36 Tredegar Library

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Language Courses

Courses aimed at anyone whose first language isnot English, at a range of levels from completebeginners to improvers. All courses containCitizenship materials, which can lead to aqualification that supports an application to theUK Border Agency for Indefinite Leave to remainin the UK or for UK Citizenship.

Please see General Education section for details of Sign Language courses

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

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ILS Basic Skills Mon 10.30-12.30pm 36 Abertillery Youth CentreILS Basic Skills Mon 1-3pm 36 Brynmawr LACILS Craft Mon 10-12 noon 36 Brynmawr LACILS Craft Wed 6-8pm 36 Abertillery LACILS Craft Wed 6-8pm 36 Ystrad Deri Community Centre,

TredegarILS Environmental Studies Wed 10.30-12.30pm 36 Georgetown Community Centre,

TredegarILS IT and Basic Skills Mon 9.15-11.15am 36 Blaina LACILS IT and Basic Skills Thurs 10-12noon 36 Brynteg Youth Centre, EVILS IT and Basic Skills Fri 10-12 noon 36 Abertillery LACILS Performing Arts Thurs 10-12 noon 36 Brynteg Youth Centre, EVILS Sewing Mon 10-12 noon 36 Brynmawr LACILS Sugarcraft Fri 10-12 noon 36 Day Care Centre, Abertillery

Independent Living Skills (ILS) are a range of specialised courses, designed specifically for students with learning disabilities.For further information contact Kathy Smith 01495 303544, kathy.smith@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

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Independent Living Skills

Working Skillsfor Adults

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What is Working Skills for Adults?Working Skills for Adults is a European Social funded project,working with employed people across Blaenau Gwent. Theaim of the project is to support local people to improve theirskills and confidence, to enable them to maximise theirearning potential and to improve motivation, productivityand stability within the workforce.

How does the project work?If you live in Blaenau Gwent and are employed for over 16 hours,then Working Skills for Adults will offer you guidance and supportto enable you to acquire the skills and qualifications to achieve youremployment goals.

As part of this project you will be able to access free learningopportunities at local venues, the learning opportunities on offerinclude: ICT; Improve your English and maths; GCSE English andMaths; Languages; Emergence First Aid; Manual Handling; FoodSafety plus bespoke short courses, such as report writing or minutetaking.

You will also benefit from individual support from the project’scommunity learning and development officers plus personallearning action plans, basic skills development and childcareprovision.

For further information on theWorking Skills for Adults projectplease contact:

Working Skills for AdultsRassau Resource Centre, School RoadRassau, Ebbw Vale. NP23 5PP

Telephone: 01495 309951

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Learn @ Tai Calon and gainwork experience

Are you a tenant of Tai Calon Community Housing and looking for work? We run a variety of short courses to help you gain new skills,build your confidence and get closer to finding a job.

Learn in a relaxed, friendly environment, at your own pace with full personal support from your trainer.

OCN Customer Care: 8 week course (2/3 hours weekly) ... learn how to deliver excellent customer service and gain experience of working in an office.OCN Word Processing: 6 week course (2 hours weekly) ... learn how to use Microsoft Office Programmes.

OCN Professional Development and CV Writing: One day course ... learn how to prepare a CV and a job application form that gets you noticed.

You can also learn how to access the internet, set up your own Facebook account and shop safely online.

If there is another course you would be interested in attending, let us know and we may be able to arrange it for you.

We can also help towards the cost of transport and childcare.

For more information contact Tai Calon Community Housing on 0300 303 1717 and ask for Natasha Jones.

Youth Work TrainingOpportunities in Blaenau Gwent

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If you are interested in commencing training for “Youth Work inWales” the following development programme is now availableto individuals wishing to work effectively with young people inBlaenau Gwent. The training programme is available to all parttime, full time and voluntary youth and community workers inBlaenau Gwent.

The Level 2 Award In Youth Work programme provides individuals withawareness into the purpose and role of youth work intervention, thedemonstration of safe working practices, a definition of structures andpractices within organisations and the opportunity to identify personalskills and qualities.

Completion of this training would broaden an individual’s range ofyouth work experience and practical application, under the supervisionof qualified staff in youth organisations within the voluntary or statutorysector. An Agored Cymru Certificate, which is recognised as a formalqualification by the Youth Policy Branch of the Welsh Government, willbe awarded on successful submission. A Level 3 Award in Youth Workqualification is now also available to those who have successfullycompleted Level 2.

For further details contact

Nick Gartside

Youth Development Officer

EVI, Church St, Ebbw Vale NP23 6BE

Email: nick.gartside@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

Blaenau Gwent Youth Service Information

Blaenau Gwent Youth Service provides a flexible and sustainable quality

service by encouraging young people to make informed choices about

THEIR lives through empowerment, education, expression and

participation.

This is achieved through a wide ranging, informal programme of

activities in which young people are encouraged to volunteer. Blaenau

Gwent Youth Centres provide a safe and friendly, relaxed atmosphere for

young people to interact with experienced, skilled youth workers.

For further details please contact: 0800 0323339

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GenesisCymru - Wales

The Genesis Cymru Wales 2 project works alongsideindividuals to help them explore their hopes and ambitionsand to help them to move closer to the world of work.

We offer:

One to one support and mentoring with an AdultAdviser at home or community venueConfidence / motivation building coursesMaths and English coursesTaster courses in a range of subjects including:

Hair and BeautyDIYSocial CareChildren’s playCounselling and many more

We can provide childcare and transport to help you accesscourses and support.

For further information please contact us on

Freephone 0800 0323339or 01495 355450 / 01495 355451

FamilyLearning

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For more information contact:

Claire GoughThe Family Learning Co-ordinatorRassau Resource Centre, School Road,Rassau, Ebbw Vale NP23 5PPTel: 01495 309951

The main aim of Family Learning is to help families to learnand have fun together. It also provides a pathway back intoeducation for parents and carers as well as giving familiestime to spend together learning and enjoying new andexciting activities.

Parents know their own children best and Family Learning usesthat knowledge to support families, both at school and at home.

The benefits of Family Learning include sharing; working togetheras a family; discovering how to support your child’s learning;meeting and making new friends; gaining a qualification; buildingyour confidence to work with your children.

ALL ACTIVITIES ARE FREE! FREE CRECHE AVAILABLE

Courses on offer in local schools and community centresinclude:

Working with your child: literacy/numeracy

Keeping up with the Children in literacy and numeracy

Fun with Numbers

Fun with Stories

Together Time

Family Health Matters

Family Craft

Workshops

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Learner’s AwardCeremony

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Sharon Hamer Blaenau Gwent’s Adult Learner of the Year 2012being presented with her award by Councillor Graham Bartlett, Mayor of Blaenau Gwent

Adult Learners' Week 201318th - 24th May

Would You Like to Teach Adults?

We are seeking to appoint various part-time adult

education tutors, to teach a variety of courses throughout

the Blaenau Gwent area. We are particularly keen to receive

applications from tutors in the following subject areas:

British Sign Language, Pottery, Stained Glass Craft, Basic

Skills.

The successful candidates should possess a recognised

teaching qualification, and have experience of teaching

adults. Tutors are expected to plan, prepare and deliver

classes to groups of adult learners. Experience of delivering

accredited learning would be a distinct advantage.

If you wish to have an informal discussion please contact

Kathy Smith 01495 303544email kathy.smith@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

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Blaenau GwentLibrariessupporting you in Lifelong Learning

Your local library offers informal support in everything youneed for successful study and learning:

Wide range of books and materials on a variety of subjects

FREE book ordering service for items available within Wales

FREE local and family history information service

FREE Internet access and taster sessions for beginners

So come along and make your learninga success

Contact your local library for more informationincluding opening hours

Abertillery Library 01495 355646

Blaina Library 01495 355609

Brynmawr Library 01495 357743

Cwm Library 01495 370454

Ebbw Vale Library 01495 303069

Tredegar Library 01495 357869

Or log onto

www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

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WEA CoursesThe Workers’ Educational Association (South Wales)

Community based courses for 2012 - 2013The Workers’ Educational Association is a voluntary movement forlifelong learning and is a well established provider of communityeducation courses in Blaenau Gwent. For further informationlearning with the WEA in Blaenau Gwent tel 01495 791128 orcontact Louise Gilmore at l.gilmore@weasouthwales.org.uk orcourseinfoeast@weasouthwales.org.uk.

Visit us atwww.weasouthwales.org.uk.

Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of this information. Wereserve the right to make changes to this programme if necessary. Coursefees payable, subject to confirmation.

Online Learning Opportunities in Blaenau GwentWe also offer online learning opportunities with Learndirect. Learn a newcomputer skill, update your qualifications or improve your reading writingand number skills. Search the internet for details of jobs, benefits, yourrights etc.

Online learning takes place on Monday mornings 9:30 – 11:30 inBrynmawr Learning Action Centre, Market Square, Brynmawr, NP23 4AJ.

Why not drop in for some informal learning in a friendly environment.

.

Disabled access is available at all venues unless otherwise statedQ

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WEA CoursesThe Workers’ Educational Association (South Wales)Community based courses for 2012 - 2013

Anger Management & Wed 12.00-2.30 6 from 6/9/12 VITCC TredegarEmotional Well-being.L1Anger Management & Tues 9.30-11.30 8 from 4/9/12 Blaina I.C.C.Emotional Development. L1.Basic skills L1&2 Fri 9.30-12pm 12 from 6/9/12 St Mary’s Church BrynmawrBetter communication-how to be assertive. L1 Tues 12:00 -2:00 8 from 4/9/12 Blaina I.C.C.Better communication-how to be assertive L1 Wed 9.30-12.00 6 from 7/9/12 VITCC TredegarCommittee/Meeting skills & Mon 12.30-3pm 12 from 3/9/12 Ystruth Ladies HutDeveloping Report writing skills. L1.Community Food & Nutrition L1 Fri 9.30-3pm 1 day 7/9/12 EVI Ebbw ValeCommunity Food & Nutrition L1 Fri 9.30-3pm 1 day 14/9/12 Communities FirstConfidence Building L1 Mon 9.30-12:00 6 from 3/9/12 VITCC TredegarConfidence building. L1 Wed 9.30-12pm 6 from 5/9/12 Blaina I.C.C.Counselling Skills L1 Mon 12.00 -2.30 6 from 3/9/12 VITCCTredegarCounselling skills L1 & 2 Mon 9.30-12.00 12 from 3/9/12 Ystruth Ladies HutCustomer Services in a retail environment. Mon 12.00-2.30 6 from 7/9/12 VITCC TredegarC.V.Writing L1 Thur 9.30-3pm 1 day 13/9/12 Cwm Communities FirstC.V.Writing L1 Thur 9.30-3pm 1 day 20/9/12 Nantyglo Senior citizens HallEquality & Diversity L1 Tues 12-2.30 6 from 4/9/12 VITCC TredegarFirst Aid L1 Thur 9.30-3pm 1 day 6/9/12 St Mary’s Church BrynmawrFirst Aid L1 Mon 9.30-3pm 1 day 10/9/12 Communities First GarnlydanFirst Aid L1 Fri 9.30-3pm 1 day 28/9/12 Nantyglo Senior citizens Hall

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WEA CoursesThe Workers’ Educational Association (South Wales)Community based courses for 2012 - 2013

Food Hygiene L1 Thur 9.30-3pm 1 day 27/9/12 Nantyglo Senior citizens HallHealth & Sfety in a Working Environment L1 Thurs 9.30-3pm 1 day 6/9/12 Nantyglo Senior citizens HallHealth & Safety in the Workplace L1 Wed 9.30-3pm 1 day 12/9/12 Communities First GarnlydanHealth & Safety in the Workplace Fri 9.30-3pm 1 day 21/9/12 Cwm Communities FirstInterview Skills L1 Fri 9.30-3pm 1 day 14/9/12 Cwm Communities FirstInterview Skills L1 Fri 9.30-3pm 1 day 21/9/12 Nantyglo Senior citizens HallIntro to Child Psychology L1 Mon 9.30-11.30 8 from 3/9/12 EVI Ebbw ValeIntro to Popular Psychology L1 Fri 12-2pm 8 from 7/9/12 St Mary’s Church BrynmawrIntro to Sign Language L1 Tues 9.30-11.30 8 from 4/9/12 EVI Ebbw ValeManual Handling L1 Wed 9.30-3pm 1 day 5/9/12 St Mary’s Church BrynmawrManual Handling L1 Thur 9.30-3pm 1 day 13/9/12 Communities First GarnlydanMentoring skills L1 Wed 12-2.30 6 from 5/9/12 VITCC TredegarPaediatric First Aid L1 Tue 9.30-3pm 1 day 11/9/12 Communities First GarnlydanPlay & Child Development L1 Thurs 9.30-12.00 6 from 5/9/12 VITCC TredegarPreparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector Fri 9.30-3pm 12 from 25/9/12 Ebbw Vale LAC(PTLLS – Level 3)Recognising & dealing with stress L1 Tues 9.30-12:00 6 from 4/9/12 VTEC TredegarUnderstand the principles & values in Mon 12.00-2pm 8 from 3/9/12 EVI Ebbw ValeHealth & Social Care L1Volunteering & Community Work L1 Wed 9.30-12:00 6 from 5/9/12 VITCC TredegarWorking with Children under 5 L1 Fri 9.30-11.30 8 from 7/9/12 St Mary’s Church Brynmawr

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University in YourCommunity Free places available in Blaenau Gwent, plus free childcare

University Accredited Level 4 bite sized courses

Courses available for September 2012 Include:

Mon Psychology-stress nature and causes TredegarHeritage module Ebbw Vale

Tues Heritage Story telling Ebbw ValeCounselling Cognative Behaviour Ebbw ValeReading and Writing Children’s literature TredegarWeb design TredegarPC Maintenance Tredegar

Wed Sociology Law and Order Ebbw ValeThur Creative Writing poetry Brynmawr

3D Graphics Ebbw ValeInteractive Media Ebbw Vale

Fri Abnormal Psychology Tredegar

“Working across the Valleys to encourage learners back into education and make it an enjoyable and worthwhile experience”

Interested?Call Claire Syder or Tracey Skyrme on 01495 722973

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New for September 2012

Pontio Tues 9.30-11.30am 30 Ebbw Vale LACPontio Wed 7.00-9.00pm 30 Tredegar Library

This is a bridge course between level Canolradd and level Uwch which includes thematic units. One grammatical point will be practiced within the

theme, but also considerable emphasis will be placed on raising confidence levels by practicing conversational skills and extending vocabulary.

Exciting New Bilingual 6 Week CoursesWelsh History and Culture

Please contact any Adult Education Centre for more details

New for Summer 2013

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