Who are Learning Champions ?

Company or Local residents who have discovered a passion for informal or formal learning that they want to share with families, friends and neighbours. Learning champions are local individuals who will act as the interface between the professional and the local community, the 'jam in the sandwich.' Volunteers who want to make a difference in their community by helping others.

WHAT WILL THEY DO?

• Learning Champions will provide voluntary outreach support to initial learning engagement.
• Provide information on local learning opportunities.
• Be able to signpost to other organisations and agencies where needed.
• Provide support and mentoring to help overcome self esteem and confidence barriers through a 'hand holding' approach.
• Capture and record the voice of the 'non-learner' leading to a better understanding of what's required.
• Provide feedback to providers, planners and funders of adult and community learning through the Adult and Community Learning Partnership.

WHERE WILL THEY BE?

• Allianz hope to have at least 100 learning champions in each cluster group area during 2009/2010.
• The initial focus will be in deprived ward areas where the greatest support is needed.
• Local shops, supermarkets, pubs, libraries, community centres, at organised events.

WHAT'S INVOLVED IN BECOMING A LEARNING CHAMPION?

• Initial informal, group discussion-based course on mentoring skills and knowledge. There is no writing required at this stage, we are fully inclusive to all individuals and more formal progression courses will be available if that's what is wanted.
• Willing to be involved in your local community.
• Have a minimum of two hours per week to spare.
• Feel passionate about learning.
• Have an understanding of how difficult it can be to take the first steps.
• Like talking but can also listen to others.
• Like being part of a team.