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Higher learning for health workers Hillingdon Hospital Trust signed a learning agreement in September 2008 between senior management and Unison. The Trust agreed to offer foundation degrees in health and social care long-term conditions. Eight learners who were either support workers from occupational therapy or physiotherapy and health care assistants from nursing signed up to the degree course as part of a Pan-London Skills for Health work-based learning project. The project was funded by the Union Learning Fund. Thames Valley University was chosen as the provider after a thorough selection process and interview by the steering group which included a potential student, signifying a clear commitment to achieving a partnership approach. Funding for the course was provided by NHS London. As well as having an excellent career development opportunity the learners are now being allocated higher competency tasks within the profession. Many of the learners aspire to undertake a BSc Honours and others will be given the opportunity to be appointed to a higher employment post. Higher Learning at Work Micro Site The site has been set up to help progression at work. It is useful for union members, reps and working adults interested in progression to higher learning, including apprentices. The site provides a range of resources and materials for union reps and learners including: ❙ What is higher learning? ❙ What opportunities are available? ❙ What is the Open University? ❙ What are Foundation Degrees? ❙ Is higher learning suitable for me? ❙ How can I make a decision?
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Working for learners 2011