Steve Beebee of the National Youth Agency (NYA) discusses why they believe in the value of value of Learning Outside the Classroom
While there can be no doubting the value of mainstream education within a formal, classroom setting, The National Youth Agency (NYA) believes there is an equal — but sometimes less visible — value to learning outside of the classroom. For generations, youth workers and others involved in non-formal education have, without much in the way of recognition, brought enormous benefits to the young people they work with, the individuals who are often the most vulnerable and hard to reach. In the current policy climate, it now seems essential that this vital provision should be recorded and recognised appropriately. The NYA welcomes the government's focus on youth and its recognition that learning outside the classroom, and personal journeys of achievement, are invaluable first steps for a great many young people.
Learning outside the classroom is the bread and butter of the entire youth-work agenda. Although some youth workers do work with or alongside schools, the vast majority of work is done in a myriad of settings away from the classroom. The range of learning too is greater, not insistent on subjects that some young people feel have no relevance to their lives, but offering learning about the wider community, team working, leadership and initiative — the type of skills future employers want — along with a whole range of accredited outcomes and links to further opportunities. From national initiatives like the Duke of Edinburgh Award to communication skills to vocational qualifications, the opportunities within the remit of learning outside the classroom are virtually endless, and their benefits deep and far-reaching.
The NYA is dedicated to working in partnership with young people and with organisations and services to ensure better outcomes for young people. It is convinced that those better outcomes can only be maximised if the potential of learning outside the classroom is fully recognised. In its desire to be responsive to policy and improve services, The NYA is keen to draw attention to how learning in non-formal settings can relate specifically to the five Every Child Matters outcomes: being healthy; staying safe; enjoying and achieving; economic wellbeing; and making a positive contribution. Indeed, where schools might struggle to fit all five outcomes into their already busy and regimented curricula, the NYA believes that learning outside the classroom provides the flexibility and creative vision to simultaneously meet government aims, match provision to need and significantly improve the lives and prospects of all young people.
To find out more, go to the NYA website or contact Sue Houlton, Programme Manager of the Learning and Achievement Team at the NYA, on 0116 242 7402, or email sueh@nya.org.uk.
