York Consulting LLP Smithfield House, 92 North Street, Leeds LS2 7PN

Tel: 0113 2223545, Web: www.yorkconsulting.co.uk

James RonicleYork Consulting LLP

13th December 2012

Introduction

Turbo-charging

Skills

Funded through Big Lottery BASIS

Programme

Aim: Enhance skills & capacity of

VCS in NW through improving

leadership & management & driving up QA.

Funded PG Cert. in Voluntary

Sector Management

Managed by VCS Learning Solutions, delivered by Edge

Hill University

Evaluation

Reviewed effectiveness,

impact & sustainability

Document Review

Learner Survey

Qualitative Research

• Compared course with 13 similar courses:

Only accredited ‘advanced’ course specific for VCS managers in NW

Significantly lower costs

Strong collaborative approach between VCS & HE

Comparing with Alternative Provision

“The course provides a unique offer.” (Evaluation Report)

Strategic Business & Financial Planning Managing People

Networks, Partnerships & Stakeholder Relations Voluntary Sector Governance

Modules

• Well researched in collaboration with sector

• Meets national priorities

• Meets local needs

Learning points:

• More opportunities to tailor course to specific learner needs

• Stronger practical focus

“It was all very relevant.” (Learner)

Course Content & Structure

“The course content is highly suitable to the needs of the voluntary sector.” (Evaluation Report)

17%

52%

14%

12%5% Strongly agree

Agree

Neither agree nor disagree

Disagree

Strongly disagree

Strengths:• Monthly day schools• Good teaching standard

“It was a positive experience.” (Learner)

“It’s a brilliant opportunity.” (Learner)

Learners’ Experience

“Most learners were satisfied with the results/outcomes of the course and its delivery.” (Evaluation Report)

Learning points:• Flexibility compromised some delivery• Registration/administration problems

• 68% satisfied/very satisfied with results/outcomes from course• Increased knowledge & deeper understanding• Increased confidence in abilities & current approaches

“She’s grown in confidence and risen to the challenge.” (Manager)

“My role as a trustee is more effective due to the knowledge base I have gained.” (Learner)

Impact on Learners

“The course has benefited learners from many different organisations.” (Evaluation Report)

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70

Something to add to my CV

Deeper understanding of issues I was aware of already

Learning from the assignments will influence the work I do in future

Sharing of good practice with other course members

Agree

Strongly agree

“I am engaging the LA in work around co-production which has been strongly influenced by my learning.” (Learner)

“We are now recruiting and retaining volunteers.” (Learner)

Impact on Organisations

“Learners are confident that the benefits they have gained will impact on their organisation and beneficiaries.” (Evaluation Report)

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70

Exchange of good practice

New/improved partnership working and networking across the region

Better stragegy and/or business & financial planning

Improved recruitment & retention of volunteers, trustees and/or board members

Agree

Strongly agree

• Wide impact across range of individuals and organisations likely to have impact for VCS in NW as a whole

• Creating legacy of VCS learning provision:

Helped VCS Learning Solutions develop & providing more VCS learning courses

Increased Edge Hill’s commitment to support for learners in VCS

Impact on Stakeholders & Wider Sector

• Unique course filling a gap in NW

• Overall programme delivered well; relevant course content & good delivery, though some teething problems

• Impact on learners’ knowledge & confidence meaning making more informed decisions

• Good impact on organisations’ internal processes, strategies & partnership working

Conclusion

Met overall aim of enhancing skills & capacity of VCS in NW through improving leadership & management & driving up QA