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Family Learning

Family learning refers to any educational activity that involves both children and adult family members, and where the learning involved is aimed at both. Family learning projects aspire to create a culture of learning in the family. We understand that parents, carers and other family members are critical to the progression and success of a child’s future, and that inspiration and support can travel across the generations. Here at Birkbeck, we recognise the importance of this in contributing to a student’s well-being and success at university. Importantly, we also recognise that, in addition to setting a positive example, adults should be able to undertake their own learning journey.

At Birkbeck, we collaborate with partner universities and community organisations to raise awareness of the opportunities offered by higher education. We deliver programmes that encourage and support those who have been away from education for a significant amount of time, to explore their own educational aspirations and future plans. Each programme is tailored to the needs of the audience and is designed to kick-start and support a transition into higher education and/or employment. This is always done in-line with schemes of learning, council priorities or aims of third-sector organisations.

Aims

  • Our aims are to support social mobility, encourage adults to behave as agents of change for their young people, raise the profile of Birkbeck, facilitate a bridge to higher learning and provide information, advice and guidance on careers and education. 

Organisations we work with

  • Adult Learning Services 
  • Charities and local community organisations 
  • Careers advisory services 
  • Further education and sixth-form colleges 
  • Local councils and their social and economic development teams 
  • University of London colleges. 

Examples of previous workshops delivered

  • Study skills
  • Introduction to higher education
  • Is university for me?
  • Information stand at partner University of London institutions Widening Participation events
  • Information session at college or school parents/carers evening

If you work with young people, parents/carers or families and would like us to deliver a Family Learning programme at your organisation, please .

Find out more about Family Learning from the Learning and Work Institute.