Family and Intergenerational Learning - Valuing Outcomes for All
Pavilion Conference Centre, Llandrindod Wells
1st February 2011

Members of the Family and Intergenerational Learning (FIL) Network came together from across Wales to attend the network's annual conference held in Llandrindod Wells which sought to demonstrate how FIL can provide benefits for all across a range of policy areas.  The network has always been successful in attracting people from diverse organisations and delegates included representatives from National Museum Wales, The Welsh Language Board, Booktrust Cymru and various learning providers and local authorities.

Lynne Hill, Policy Director for Children in Wales, chaired the day which began with a speech from Andrea Nicholas-Jones, confirming the Welsh Assembly Government's commitment to intergenerational practice. Carys Morgan then gave an overview of the People's Collection / Casgliad y Bobl, an exciting new online resource which will encourage people to play an active part in documenting the culture and history of Wales. The morning session ended with a presentation detailing how the Credit and Qualifications Framework for Wales is creating a mechanism to recognise and record all learning and training in Wales. (All powerpoint presentations  are available to download below).

The afternoon workshops further reflected the variety of settings where FIL can have a positive impact. Workshops  included a community digital storytelling project, an award winning FL numeracy group and a look at the groundbreaking work at Parc Prison which is encouraging offenders to maintain ties with their families. The conference also provided an opportunity to publicise the Welsh Assembly Government's recently released  policy statement on Adult Community Learning in Wales , Delivering Community learning in Wales which generated much interest from delegates.

 Conference feedback was positive with 90% of delegates rating the day very good or good. One delegate summed up how many people had felt about the day by saying she had most enjoyed 'making new contacts and new ideas to take back.'

 Follow on activity

NDC staff took the opportunity to  draw attention to  Family Learning Day which is due to take place on 21st May 2011, as part of the wider celebration of Adult Learners' Week (ALW). Several delegates were keen to organise events during ALW and will be encouraged to attend the next network meeting to discuss and share their ideas for activities.

 To capitalise on the interest delegates showed in heritage projects and the People's Collection, the next FIL Network meeting for South Wales is being held at the Glamorgan Records Office in its new, purpose built, home when there will be an opportunity to hear more about the facilities they have on offer. (Click here to book a place.) 

 All network members will continue to be actively encouraged to send in details of current work for inclusion on the NIACE Dysgu Cymru website and to continue to provide a forum for the exchange of good practice and new ideas.