WEA: Creating a recognised pathway into community interpreting
Working together to bring a new SCQF credit-rated qualification to learners in Scotland
The Workers' Educational Association (WEA) is a leading adult education charity with a history spanning more than 120 years. Its mission is to make adult education accessible to everyone who needs it, helping to tackle inequality and promote social justice.
When the WEA identified demand in Scotland for an entry-level Community Interpreting qualification, it worked with Fife College to have its Community Interpreting qualification formally credit-rated at SCQF Level 5.
Responding to demand
The WEA already had a successful accredited Community Interpreting course in England and wanted to build on this experience in Scotland.
At the time, there were no comparable entry-level interpreting courses available, creating an opportunity to develop a recognised learning pathway for people looking to take their first steps towards becoming professional interpreters.
Working with Fife College enabled the WEA to have its learning formally credit rated and recognised on the SCQF Register.
A collaborative approach
The WEA found the credit-rating process to be a positive experience, with support from the Fife College team throughout.
“We felt well supported throughout, and the Fife College team was always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and meet with us whenever required. Their expertise and collaborative approach made the process straightforward and effective.”
The partnership provided the WEA with the guidance and expertise needed to navigate the credit-rating process and achieve formal recognition for its learning.
Creating progression opportunities for learners
For the WEA, one of the biggest benefits of having the qualification formally recognised has been the value it provides to learners.
The SCQF Level 5 Community Interpreting qualification gives learners a recognised first step towards becoming a professional interpreter, while providing a clear progression pathway into further learning and employment.
“Having a formally recognised qualification has been extremely valuable for our learners. For many, it represents their first step towards becoming a professional interpreter and provides a clear progression pathway into further learning and employment opportunities.”
Considering credit rating for your learning?
The WEA's experience demonstrates how credit rating can add value to an organisation's learning provision while creating clearer progression opportunities for learners.
Its advice to other organisations considering credit rating their learning is simple:
“Go for it. The process is supportive, the benefits are significant, and formal recognition can add real value for both organisations and learners.”