‘Theory and Practice of Nurture Groups’ course recognised by Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework

Last month, a key course nurtureuk runs to support and train nurture practitioners was recognised by the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF).

The SCQF is the only framework in the UK that credit rates training outside academic institutions and is therefore a highly sought after award that has both national and international recognition.

The ‘Theory and Practice of Nurture Groups’ was added to the framework in July. The course aims to give an education professional the training they need to set up and run a nurture group including an understanding of the theory which underpins nurture approaches alongside accurate and effective use of the Boxall Profile tool to assess children’s social emotional and mental health needs and their progression. Addition to the framework means that nurtureuk will now be able to offer a SCQF credit-rated version of the Theory and Practice of Nurture Groups.

The course has been given a SCQF level of 8 which translates into a European Qualifications Framework level of 5. Level 5 qualifications are described as involving “comprehensive, specialised, factual and theoretical knowledge” and “granting a comprehensive range of cognitive and practical skills required to develop creative solutions to abstract problems.”

This also means the course is recognised across Europe as comparable to the demands and skills and knowledge developed of modules in other level 5 qualifications, such as a foundation degree, HND or DipHE.

The accreditation process is rigorous, meaning the course has been scrutinised by both a credit rater and vetter. Feedback received during this process said that the Theory and Practice of Nurture Groups “is a comprehensive and well-presented award which is grounded in current theory and related to effective, reflective practice.”

Nurture groups have been shown to help improve pupils social and emotional skills, behaviour, attendance, attitudes towards education and academic attainment. Nurture groups and programmes were recently highlighted in the Timpson Review on school exclusions for their effectiveness in improving outcomes for children. The review called for a specific fund to help support interventions, including nurture groups. This year marks 50 years since nurture groups were first started in Hackney, London.

Responding to the news nurtureuk Chief Executive Kevin Kibble said: “We are very proud that we have gained this recognition. It shows not just the quality of this course, but the value of the skills and knowledge of nurture practitioners and nurture approaches to their schools and pupils. It’s a fantastic way to start our celebrations of 50 years of nurture.”

Delegates undertake the SCQF credit rated version of the Theory and Practice of Nurture Groups course will gain 13 SCQF points.