There is a range of support in place for programmes. The Children's Workforce Development Council provides central support for Learning Mentor provision, using funding provided by the Department for Children, Schools and Families. They also have responsibility for minimum standards of practice, training and qualifications in their role as part of the UK wide sector skills council for Children's Care and Development.

Support for programmes is provided in a variety of different ways, including the following.

A six day CWDC Induction Training Programme (click here to view details) is provided for newly appointed Learning Mentors. This consists of generic moduels for children's workforce staff at levels 3/4, plus role specific learning mentor modules, which together make up the CWDC endorsed programme. Broader information on training and qualifications can be accessed via the training page.

The National Occupational Standards for Learning, Development and Support Services...(NOS LDSS) provide minimum standards of practice for the work of Learning Mentors, Education Welfare Officers and practitioners supporting children and young people (such as Connexions Personal Advisers in England).

• The NOS LDSS are underpinned by functional maps, which specifically describe the different roles covered. A national accredited training framework for roles covered by the standards has also been produced. NVQs at levels 3 and 4 are now available, and a range of foundation degrees and related qualifications are also available or are in the process of being developed.
• The Learning Mentor Functional Map provides the nationally agreed description of the Learning Mentor role.
• The "Ticket to the Future" publication provides in depth information and support in relation to NOS LDSS, their genesis and application, and the subsequent accredited training framework.

Specific support for Learning Mentor Co-ordinators is described on the co-ordinators page.  Similar support information is provided on the employers page.

The Support Materials page of this site contains a variety of materials developed through practice, through the work of the Peer Support Team and through other working groups such as the Forward Focus Group (a group of Co-ordinators). Other useful materials produced by a variety of organsiations are also housed in this area.

Should you require any further information on the above, please follow the relevant links, or email learning.mentors@cwdcouncil.org.uk .