Conference Overview

Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG),
the Catalyst for all Educational Choice, Progression
and Success

 

The pathways and progression routes between every level and type of Learning, Education and Training from secondary school to post graduate are becoming progressively more diverse and fragmented.  Each reform, initiative, new qualification and the ways that these can be combined adds to the complexity of a changing landscape which includes:

• A plethora of pathways and opportunities
• Implementation of the 14-19 reform agenda
• Varying opportunities for the FLT, NEET and disengaged cohorts
• Schools diplomas
• QCF qualifications
• Apprenticeships
• New learner record systems
• The drive to greater numbers at University
• Increasing availability of vocational degrees and foundation degrees
• Greater selectivity by employers
• Networks that tap into local education, training and employment opportunities

The challenge of taking in all the appropriate detail and relating this to individual learners is formidable and will test the knowledge and communication skills of every advisor in each of the various sectors. The IT systems will have to be robust, flexible and intelligent to support the demands which will be put on them. This challenge, however, will not just rest on the advisors and systems but will affect everyone in the sectors including teachers, trainers, parents and the learners themselves. The catalyst to making this work smoothly or even to work at all will depend on the professionalism of IAG staff with the information and systems which are made available to them.

This one day conference will aim to bring together the growing demands on IAG, review the benefits of multi agency work and collaboration to deliver improved IAG provision.  Explore IAG issues of delivering impartial IAG and referral processes under the present fragmented system.  Investigate the new systems, qualifications and progression routes which will support advisors, policies and qualifications for the development of the IAG professionals.

The conference is aimed at: IAG Staff and Advisory Organisations; schools, FE and Sixth Form Colleges; Learning providers, QCF and Curriculum Specialists; Universities and those involved in information systems for the relevant sectors.