To

CDN Update    
 
With the Spring break becoming a distant memory, CDN is hurtling into a very busy period.   
   
The review of the Professional Standards for Lecturers in Scotland's Colleges is progressing apace. There was an excellent response to the online survey and focus groups. The feedback is informing the writing stage of the revised Professional Standards. I'd like to thank all those who have been involved in this important process.

We are excited to announce the launch of a fantastic programme of more than 90 sessions for College Expo18. This ambitious new event takes place 6 and 7 June in Edinburgh. It will be a celebration of college excellence, a hub for staff development and practical innovation, and an opportunity to participate in cutting-edge debate on vocational learning. Find out below how you can book your place and get involved.

Two other key events coming up are the College Board Members' Conference, on 15 May in Stirling and the annual Finance Development Network Conference, which takes place 31 May and 1 June in Dunblane. Each of these events offer lively days of learning, sharing and networking.

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you wish to discuss any aspect of our work: jim.metcalfe@cdn.ac.uk

 
  
Jim Metcalfe, Chief Executive, College Development Network (CDN)   

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College Expo18: Programme of more than 90 sessions launched
College Expo18 is a new landmark event for everyone involved in post-16 education and training. An exciting programme is now live - and sessions are filling up fast. Book your place.
PLUS: a few exhibition stands are still available, please contact Jackie.cullen@cdn.ac.uk 
College Board Members' Conference
The College Board Members' Conference is a key event for all those involved in the governance of colleges across Scotland. We are delighted that the Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, will open the conference with a keynote, on 15 May 2018 at Stirling Court Hotel.
To book your place, please contact your Board Secretary. 
Professional Standards Update
A very big thank you to all of you who responded to the online survey, we received 1,600 responses. In addition to the online survey we have also conducted 17 Focus Groups, 10 of which were dedicated to lecturing staff; and nine in-depth interviews with key stakeholders. The feedback will inform the new Standards, which will be 'road tested' by a reference group made up of teaching staff drawn from colleges across Scotland. Find out more.

The annual Finance Development Network Conference takes place 31 May and 1 June, Dunblane Doubletree. This event is for anyone with an interest in or who works within the college finance sector. Keynotes include Audit Scotland; RBS Security Awareness speaking on cybercrime; Scottish Funding Council; APUC who will speak about GDPR; and this year's special guest speaker, Eddie 'the eagle' Edwards. There is also a choice of interactive workshops. 
Book your place.

Supporting National Numeracy Day  
Poor numeracy costs the UK economy over £20bn every year. The UK's first National Numeracy Day will take place on 16 May. The aim of the day is to reframe attitudes to numeracy and to help more than 20,000 people take action to improve their numeracy. It offers colleges a great opportunity to get involved by becoming a National Numeracy Day Champion. Find out more.  
Getting it right for you - Learner Journey Survey
The Education and Skills Committee has published a survey which looks at the experiences of young people moving from school towards work. It seeks to find out what help and support young people receive in helping them decide which direction of travel to take in life, and what support they receive to help them on their way. To make the results as meaningful as possible the Committee would like as many young people as possible to complete it.
Please forward the survey link to the young people within your setting: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/TQQTI/  
CDN is offering a unique opportunity to undertake the PDA Advancing Equality and Diversity through Inclusiveness - SCFQ Level 9. This qualification is aimed at anyone working in a teaching and learning environment. It is flexible, offering options and is delivered online through CDN LearnOnline , with support from the course tutor.

National 4 Qualification survey 
The Scottish Government is currently gathering information from a range of stakeholders on their perceptions of the National 4 qualification with a view to improving its currency amongst learners, teachers, parents, employers and others. Colleges are encouraged to get involved.
Complete the survey:
  
Weekly round-up of college news
Every Friday CDN issues an online round-up of what's been happening across the college sector. It's free and very quick and easy to sign up. Do please let us know if there is anything that you would like us to add to the round-up, too.
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