Learner Advisory Groups

Introduction

Our learner group members are an inspiring group of people with a diverse and broad range of experiences,
They help us to shape qualifications and the qualification system in Wales so that it’s fit for the future, and they guarantee that the voices of learners are embedded into all aspects of our work.

Role

We have two learner groups. One is made up of learners in schools, colleges and home-based learning. The other is for learners aged 16 or over, who are currently in an apprenticeship, work-based learning or studying for vocational qualifications.

Our groups help us talk to learners and understand what they need from us and the wider education sector. Members challenge us, as well as support us in our work, to help us give learners the information they need about qualifications.

The meeting content, resources and discussions are confidential, and the thoughts and opinions of all members are not shared unless members' permission is given.
Group members are honest and tell us - including senior leaders - what they really feel about the issues affecting qualifications and learners in Wales.

Membership

Each group is made up of 18-25 learners, who are normally part of the group for up to two years.

All of our members are:

• in education and studying a range of qualifications, including vocational qualifications, GCSEs, AS and A levels and the Welsh Baccalaureate
• from different types of backgrounds and education settings (including colleges, schools, private candidates), and different types of learners (including Welsh-medium learners and those with additional learning needs).

Becoming a Learner Adviser

These are voluntary roles, but the benefits gained are invaluable:

1. Unique experience to include on your CV or UCAS application
2. Improved skills such as communication, evaluation, team-working
3. Supporting the development of Made-for-Wales qualifications
4. Making sure that learners’ voices are heard.

Time commitment

There are up to six Learner Advisory Group meetings a year. The dates are pre-arranged and meetings take place every half term, usually on Tuesdays between 1700 and 1830.

Occasionally, we organise extra catch-ups with the groups if we need more time to discuss activities. These meetings are optional, although we do encourage you to join them so that you can get involved with new pieces of work and catch up with other members.

Applying to join

If you're interested in joining one of our Learner groups or want to nominate a learner, please email us at: learnergroup@qualifications.wales. 

We will ask for your:  

• name 
• age 
• centre name 
• your reasons for applying to join the group (no more than 100 words) 

We look forward to hearing from you.