Useful links

2008/09 STEM Directories (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)

The 2008/09 STEM Directories (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) are a source of enrichment and enhancement activities for schools and colleges. Three separate directories have been produced and launched in September 2008 to serve the needs of science, Mathematics and Design and Technology teachers across the UK.

The Mathematics directory comprises a collection of schemes and activities provided by organisations from across the UK that aim to enhance and enrich the curriculum. These schemes are usually based around events or experiences that cannot be delivered with standard school contacts and resources. Each activity is linked to the curriculum so that the impact of the experiences and outcomes can be sustained.

View website: www.stemdirectories.org.uk

QIA Functional Skills support programme

The functional skills support programme is a workforce development programme preparing practitioners to be fully competent and confident to teach functional English, functional mathematics and functional ICT in the pilot centres from September 2007.

View website: http://excellence.qia.org.uk

QCA Functional Skills overview

News and update page that includes additional links and information on:

• Trialling and piloting Functional Skills
• Awarding bodies offering Functional Skills
• Functional Skills and Diplomas
• Functional Skills and GCSEs

View website: www.qca.org.uk

LSN Functional Skills Support Programme

The Quality Improvement Agency (QIA) and the Secondary National Strategy (SNS) are leading work to design and develop a programme of support for the introduction of functional skills.

QIA has commissioned the Learning and Skills Network (LSN) to deliver the QIA strands of the programme. The LSN consortium comprises LSN, CFBT Education Trust and Learning for Work Ltd.

The combined knowledge, established networks and specialist associates of all partners will facilitate effective and efficient delivery of the programme. The initial focus of the programme will be on preparing and supporting the schools, colleges and other providers that are participating in the functional skills pilot.

View website: www.lsneducation.org.uk

Tools Library

These Tools are designed to indicate the approximate skills level of a learner up to, and including, Level 2. They form part of the Skills for Life learning journey, following on from the skills check and leading on to diagnostic assessment.

View website: www.toolslibrary.co.uk

National Institute of Adult Continuing Education

NIACE (National Institute of Adult Continuing Education) exists to encourage more and different adults to engage in learning of all kinds. NIACE campaigns for – and celebrates the achievements of – adult learners, young and old, and in all their diversity. NIACE is the largest organisation working to promote the interests of learners and potential learners in England and Wales.

View website: www.niace.org.uk/

National Research and Development Centre for Adult Literacy and Numeracy

National Research and Development Centre for Adult Literacy and Numeracy (NRDC), is dedicated to conducting research and development projects to improve literacy, numeracy, language and related skills and knowledge. This website is designed to provide a resource for all those interested in adult literacy, language and numeracy.

View website: www.nrdc.org.uk

Year of Reading

The National Year of Reading (NYR) is a year-long celebration of reading, in all its forms. It aims to help build a greater national passion for reading in England – for children, families and adult learners alike.

View website: www.yearofreading.org.uk/

The National Association of Advisers in English

The National Association of Advisers in English (NAAE) works to promote the highest standards of English teaching in school, through the involvement of its members as advisers, inspectors and consultants in the schools of England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

View website: www.naae.org.uk/

Get On

Get On aims to help brush up your maths and English skills by directing people to free courses that could help you get to grips with your maths and English skills, and increase your confidence.

View website: http://geton.direct.gov.uk/

National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics

The NCETM is a major initiative funded by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (formerly the DfES) to enhance professional development for mathematics teachers in all education sectors in England.

View website: www.ncetm.org.uk