Non-Formal Learning

The following sections feature information about non-formal learning, including all areas of The NYA's Learning and Achievement work programme.

The primary purpose of the Learning and Achievement team is to seek to secure the place of non-formal learning by influencing policy and translating that policy into practice for those who work with young people in non-formal educational settings.

Learning in the youth work sense is usually referred to as non-formal learning which takes place in a variety of settings, ranging from youth clubs and centres, to detached work, to mobile provision and more specialist projects. Research has evidenced the contribution non-formal learning can make to young people's life chances in terms of both primary development, (defined as changes in an individual's dispositions, capabilities, attitudes and behaviour) and positional development, (defined as changes to a young persons situation or position as a consequence of the primary changes, such as entering employment, re-engaging with school or undertaking training).

Working within this context, the Learning and Achievement team uses a number of strategies to achieve its objectives:

  • Engaging with stakeholders e.g. Network for the Accreditiation of Young People's Achievement (NFAYPA)
  • Undertaking research e.g. working with the QCA to identify gaps within the Foundation Learning Tier (FLT)
  • Development work e.g. developing ways in which young people can read and write in non-formal settings
  • Partnership working e.g. with NIACE to manage the Young Adult Learners Partnership (YALP), with The Princes Trust in the management and delivery of The Youth Steps programme
  • Project management e.g. the Money Mastery national training programme

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Youth Work 4 Health
Find out more about Hear By Right and What's Changed
Youth Information