The materials were used with a tutor group of 25 Level 2 Intermediate GNVQ students. They have very mixed ability with most using English as a second language. The materials were used to support the tutorial and Key Skills lessons on an informal basis.

The three main modules used were Layout, Speed reading and Time management. The students spent plenty of time working through at least two modules.

The Layout module was a great one to incorporate into our Key Skills Improving Own Learning and Performance programme. Students identified problems with the layout of their assignments then tackled the module. All students were able to show an improvement in the layout of the set text to demonstrate evidence of progress. The second text was sufficiently challenging to keep the more able students interested.

The students enjoyed the practical aspects of Speed reading and Time management involving timing themselves and thinking about what they do with their time.

After the success of this pilot group, the college has plans to expand the use of Headstart to help study skills. In particular, the use of many of the level three resources to blend in with the tutorial provision. This is also an excellent way of introducing more ILT resources into the curriculum.

Many thanks to the team at Headstart for developing these materials and administering the tailored courses on the website.

Peter Saville

Peter_Saville@mancat.ac.uk
Deputy Head of Centre
North Manchester Sixth Form College
Manchester College of Arts and Technology