European study group visit

Around 30 delegates from the Czech Republic, Portugal and Ireland will be coming to Sandwell from June 19 to 21.

Cabinet member for children and families Councillor Bob Badham said: "In today's world it is important that students see and experience teaching and learning practices from all over the world.

"We will be delighted to show the delegates around the borough and showcase some of the wonderful things we have achieved in education.

"In exam results, Sandwell has improved year-on-year for the last 10 years thanks to close working between council education staff and schools."

In June last year, the council was awarded funds through the Leonardo Lifelong Learning Programme to provide "Continuous Professional Development Opportunities" for staff in Sandwell involved in guidance work with learners/students or trainees.

This CPD involves study visits to other partners who are working with Sandwell on the project.

There are three partners - Zlinsky Kraj, which is a local authority based in the Czech Republic, Galway Technical Institute in Ireland and a vocational college in Northern Portugal. The project is called Careers of the Future.

The study visits focus on finding out about what systems of guidance are in place in other countries, visiting providers such as schools, colleges, universities and employers and exchanging good practice.

Sandwell is hosting a study visit from the June 19 to 21 where up to 29 delegates are expected.

This will comprise 10 from the Czech Republic, 12 from Ireland and seven from Portugal.

Delegates include senior figures in education in the Czech Republic and a range of college staff from Ireland and Portugal.

They will visit a cross section of provision in Sandwell finding out about best practice here.  

Delegates are being welcomed to Sandwell at 9.30am on June 20, at the Training & Development Centre in Popes Lane, Oldbury.