Castle College (formerly Broxtowe College) -
Case Study for
Individual Learning Plan Development
Introduction to the project
Specific reasons for developing the individual learning plan (ILP)
The initial teacher training (ITT) project at Broxtowe College was planned to provide a model for the effective use of learning plans in ITT that would incorporate positive and useful input from all parties involved in the trainees’ progress. It was anticipated that this would include employers, subject-specific mentors, tutors, personal tutors and learning support tutors, who would share their advice and guidance via the learning plan. Initially this was to be paper-based, progressing to a web-based model as the project evolved.
The reasons behind the need and desire to develop and implement ILPs were:
- A recent inspection report from Ofsted highlighted the fact that there was no ILP currently in place in ITT provision. This was recommended as an area for development and subsequently noted on the self-assessment action plan.
- It was recognised that there was a need for stronger links between tutors, mentors, employers and students to ensure that all parties were kept informed of student progress and communication, in order to become more effective.
- To meet all the requirements of the new ITT standards, it was felt that preparation must revolve around an appropriate ILP style and format. The project, therefore, gave an excellent opportunity for this starting point to be addressed.
Key idea
"We wanted to develop an Individual Learner Action Plan (ILAP) that would pull together effective generic and subject-specific support from all those involved in a trainee’s development, including employers, subject-specific mentors, tutors, personal tutors and learning support tutors."
Aims
The first aim of the project was to undertake research into current ILP models and initial assessment practice in order to adapt and adopt the most appropriate model.
The second, and main, aim was to develop an ILP that would incorporate effective subject-specific support and involve mentors and employers in the unified development of trainees’ skills and confidence. Liaison between employer, mentor, tutor and student was considered vital to provide complete support for the trainee; the aim was for the ILP to be the link between all concerned.
Objectives
The objectives were to:
- define the purpose and need for ILP/ILAP
- research into current ILP format and usage
- research into current initial assessment processes and systems
- design/develop/adapt ILP documentation, on-line process and procedure
- pilot ILP procedures and evaluate the process
- pilot initial assessment documentation and process
- develop a model for employer involvement
- develop subject-specific support
- establish links between mentors, employers, tutors and trainees
- offer further staff development opportunities to ITT students.