Level 4 Award in Internal Quality Assurance

New Level 4 Award in Internal Quality Assurance

Crossfields Institute Level 4 Award in Internal Quality Assurance (Integrative Approach)

This fully-online qualification is aimed at those who have a responsibility for the quality assurance of assessment practice within their organisation. It will help them to understand how to recognise good practice and undertake the role of internal quality assurance to meet the requirements of their own organisation and/or of external organisations such as an awarding organisation. 

There is a knowledge component within this programme that focuses on the principles and practices of internal quality assurance and a skills component where the learner is required to demonstrate their skills through naturally occurring evidence.

The knowledge component of this programme will help the learner to understand the need to identify good practice before being able to put the different techniques of planning and undertaking the role (that will be explored through taught session and discussion) into practice. The learner will have the opportunity to create their own internal quality assurance process or critically reflect on their organisation’s existing process.

Why this course?

  • Mapped against National Occupational Standards
  • All assessment is covered, including observation
  • Up to three one-to-one mentoring sessions included

Our curriculum

The award will cover:

  • Identifying good practice in assessment
  • Plans, processes and techniques of internal quality assurance
  • The importance of effective quality assurance
  • Planning internal quality assurance
  • Undertaking IQA activity
  • Managing IQA information
  • Maintaining legal and good practice

Our faculty

  • Marisa Godfrey (Head of Centre, Crossfields Learning)
  • Andrea Brandão (Senior Lecturer, Crossfields Learning)
  • Julie Smith (Founder, Enable Assessment)

Further information

The price of the course is £750 (£625 for existing centres).

To apply for a place, please click here to complete our application form.

If you would like to download the course brochure, click here.

For more detailed information about all aspects of the IQA award, including learning hours, faculty, fees, delivery dates and certification, email dialogue@crossfieldsinstitute.com

About Crossfields Institute

Crossfields Institute is an educational charity specialising in holistic and integrative education and research. The Institute develops specialist qualifications which aim to support the development of autonomous students with the intellectual rigour, practical skills, social responsibility and ability to think creatively and act decisively.

Crossfields Institute
Stroud House | Russell Street | Stroud GL5 3AN | United Kingdom
T: +44 (0) 1453 808118
Company no: 06503063 | Charity no: 1124859

New Level 7 PPIE Certificate Launched

New Level 7 PPIE Certificate Launched for 2022


Crossfields Institute Level 7 Certificate in the Philosophy and Practice of Integrative Education

This fully-online qualification introduces a range of integrative theories and approaches to education.

It was developed in response to the major social, environmental and technological changes that are being experienced globally, and the changing skills and competences that young people need.

As a response to these challenges, many educators are now experimenting with new approaches to teaching and learning with the aim of nurturing capacities such as creative thinking, empathy, resilience and resourcefulness.

Who should apply?

  • School leaders
  • Teachers
  • Curriculum designers
  • Those thinking of a career in teaching
  • Home school practitioners

Our curriculum

The certificate will cover:

  • Integrative approaches to teaching and learning
  • Contemporary approaches to educational practice
  • Student wellbeing
  • Lesson planning and implementation
  • The teaching role in an organisational context
  • Colleagueship and collaboration
  • Classroom leadership
  • Peer-mentoring networks
  • Holistic and formative assessment

Our faculty and key speakers

  • Lorraine Teviotdale (Scotland)
  • Andrea Brandão (Finland)
  • Jonathan Code (UK)
  • Toby Cann (UK)
  • Sven Saar (UK)
  • Silke Weiss (Germany)
  • Dr Bronwen Haralambous (Australia)
  • Dr Eeva Raunela (Finland)

Cost

£1500 (staged payments available)

Further information

To apply for a place on the course, please click here to complete our application form.

If you would like to download the course brochure, click here.

For more detailed information about all aspects of PPIE, including learning hours, faculty, fees, delivery dates and certification, email dialogue@crossfieldsinstitute.com

About Crossfields Institute

Crossfields Institute is an educational charity specialising in holistic and integrative education and research. The Institute develops specialist qualifications which aim to support the development of autonomous students with the intellectual rigour, practical skills, social responsibility and ability to think creatively and act decisively.

Crossfields Institute
Stroud House | Russell Street | Stroud GL5 3AN | United Kingdom
T: +44 (0) 1453 808118
Company no: 06503063 | Charity no: 1124859

IE Conference 2022

Integrative Education (IE) Conference 2022

By Katie Simpson

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On the 3rd and 4th March 2022, Crossfields Institute hosted practitioners and students at Emerson College for the very first Integrative Education (IE) Conference. With a total of 41 attendees, the two-day conference provided a valuable opportunity to gather and discuss the current experience and future of integrative learning.

Lou Doliczny opened the event, which began with a discussion of Crossfields’ seven Principles of Integrative Education (see https://crossfieldsinstitute.com/about). This laid the foundation for practitioners to reflect on their experience of delivering and assessing the IE qualifications in a series of curated workshops.

Our speakers for the event included Jonathan Code, Helen Morris-Ridout and Peter Simpson. Jonathan’s talk involved sharing three stories on the theme of ‘fire’ alongside the question: how should we live? Jonathan invited us into our imaginations, to reflect on the stories that he presented, with a focus on integrating place and purpose in education. As a recent PPIE graduate, Helen spoke to us about the principles of permaculture, making a thoughtful case for shifting education away from an anthropocentric centre, towards a system of integrated learning with an ecocentric heart. Finally, Peter talked about the practice of not-knowing and the opportunities that uncertainty can offer us. Bringing together themes of meditation, critical thinking and creativity, Peter guided us to reflect on both our professional and personal experiences of not-knowing.

In addition to the practitioners, it was a privilege to be hosting 17 students, aged 14-16, all at various stages of the IE qualification. Not only did this give an opportunity to share their learning experiences but it provided a chance for IE students to meet one another and feel a part of something bigger. Jules Ellison and Katie Simpson coordinated a series of youth-focused workshops that encouraged creative reflection on the students’ experience of IE. Students also took part in a fire-lighting workshop with Jonathan Code. Practicing patience, teamwork and self-reflection, our young people managed to get several fires burning, one of which was used to light the fireplace in the main conference room.

At the end of the first day, students reflected on some key messages from the recent publication of Sir Ken Robinson’s manifesto, Imagine If. This stimulated an insightful discussion on creativity and empathy and led to an exploration of young people’s role in the education system. In the final session, IE students shared with the whole conference their visual representations of what an IE graduate should look like – an inspiring end to a wonderful time together.

If you are a learner or a parent interested in registering for the IE qualification, please contact us. If you are a centre interested in running this course as part of your curriculum, please contact us. If you would like to learn more about these qualifications, please see the following pages on our website:

Crossfields Institute Level 2 Integrated Education Award

Crossfields Institute Level 2 Integrated Education Certificate

Crossfields Institute Level 2 Integrated Education Diploma

Crossfields Institute Level 2 Integrated Education Extended Diploma

Crossfields Institute Level 3 Integrated Education Award

Crossfields Institute Level 3 Integrated Education Certificate

New Regenerative Food & Farming Qualification Launched

New Regenerative Food & Farming Qualification Launched

 

Crossfields Institute and Apricot Centre are delighted to announce the launch of

CFI Level 3 Diploma in Regenerative Land Based Systems: Food and Farming

This qualification is open for registrations from January 2023.

This qualification is designed for people who want a practical, work-based approach to learning about regenerative land systems. Upon completion of this qualification learners will be able to work in Regenerative Food Production, Farming or small-scale food production, forestry or other land based businesses. Learners may also choose to complete further study at Level 4 in Regenerative Land Systems.

This Crossfields Institute qualification was created in collaboration with Apricot Centre in order to:

  • Prepare learners to progress to a qualification at a higher level such as a Level 4 Regenerative Food Systems; Foundation Degree in Agriculture and Rural Studies; Degrees in Agricultural Technology, Agriculture and Food or Rural Business Management
  • Prepare learners to progress to a qualification in another subject area
  • Prepare learners for employment in regenerative farming or small holding settings
  • Prepare learners to work in post-harvest roles such as food processing in regenerative food products
  • Prepare learners to work in community supported agriculture or the circular food economy.
  • Support learners’ role working in regenerative land based systems
  • Provide learners with opportunities for personal growth and engagement in learning

 

This brand new year long traineeship is currently being offered by the Apricot Centre CIC. The Traineeship runs from January 3rd 2022 – December 2022 for 5 days a week ( 3 days in placement and 2 days in training).

The programme offers an authentic opportunity on a working farm or woodland, or with a food producer and upon completion gives learners an accredited Level 3 qualification. Development for the qualification was generously funded by Devon Environmental Foundation, Vivobarefoot ‘Livebarefoot Fund’ and Devon County Council.

Designed for people 18+, the Apricot Centre welcome applications from all diverse backgrounds and life experiences. Due to popular demand, the 2022 programme is now full, however the Apricot Centre are taking applications for it’s programme next year. For more information, see: https://www.apricotcentre.co.uk/regen-school

What learners have had to say:

“This well-designed course provides a fantastic opportunity to develop, or start-out, in the regenerative agriculture sector. The course lecturers and students help to support a healthy learning environment where we can take advantage of farm visits, demonstrations, and hands-on activities. The course provides networking opportunities and actively celebrates the successes of regenerative farms, allowing the students the opportunity to benefit from decades of experience whilst encouraging enterprise.”– Ben T

“This course has already proceeded all my expectations from the vast subjects covered to lessons being inclusive to all learning types with hands on practicals and peer learning opportunities! I am excited for what is to come and school is now the highlight of my week for the first time in my life.”– Maddie

“After nearly 20 years in environmental consulting, this course is a breath of fresh air and a major stepping stone in enabling me to change my career. It’s in-depth, hands on and interactive making going back to ‘school’ a great deal of fun and providing the skills and knowledge to regenerate the land and therefore benefit our environment. I would highly recommend this anyone remotely interested in farming and climate change” – Roz

Contacts:

Crossfields Institute is a Gloucestershire based education charity, approved by Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulations in England) as an awarding organisation. The Institute specialises in the development of specialist qualifications for providers with a particular vision or ethos.

The Apricot Centre aims to create and run a sustainable diverse farm, wellbeing service and business. It recognises that there is a fundamental link between the wellbeing of the soil, food and habitat, and the mental and physical health of the people in and around the farm, making for a wonderful environment for a warm and effective mental health/wellbeing service for children and families. The Apricot centre is a CIC (not for Profit) founded in 2006 and aims to be financially self-sufficient.

PPIE Flyer 2022

Exciting New Modular Qualification – Enrolling for 2022

Crossfields Institute Level 7 Diploma in the Philosophy and Practice of Integrated Education

Philosophy and Practice of Integrative Education (PPIE) is an innovative, international teacher development programme that is now entering its fifth year. The main aim of this postgraduate level programme is to inspire teachers to develop their own practice drawing on relevant theory and on their own capacity for critical and reflective inquiry. For the January 2022 intake we have made a significant change, which is that PPIE can now be taken as separate, stand-alone short courses. This enables you to be more selective about what you study and to complete the programme at your own pace. General information about the programme is given below. For more detailed information, visit: www.crossfieldsinstitute.com/learning/#ppie

For more detailed information about all aspects of PPIE, including learning hours,
faculty, fees, delivery dates and certification, please visit:
www.crossfieldsinstitute.com/learning/#ppie or email dialogue@crossfieldsinstitute.com

Crossfields Institute
Stroud House | Russell Street | Stroud GL5 3AN | United Kingdom
T: +44 (0) 1453 808118
Company no: 06503063 | Charity no: 1124859

Early Childhood Qualifications Re-Launched

Early Childhood Qualifications Re-Launched

Crossfields Institute Early Years qualifications

After many years of working collaboratively with NCFE CACHE, Crossfields Institute are delighted to announce the re-launch of following qualifications:

Crossfields Institute Level 3 Diploma in Holistic Baby and Child Care (Early Years Educator)
Crossfields Institute Level 4 Diploma in Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Studies (EYE)
Crossfields Institute Level 5 Diploma in Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Studies – Leadership and Management

These qualifications were previously awarded through NCFE CACHE but will now be part of the Crossfields Institute suite of qualifications NCFE CACHE made the following statement about the qualifications:

“NCFE CACHE has worked with Crossfields Institute since 2013 and would like to wish students following these qualifications the best of luck as they embark on their studies. These specialist qualifications are of quality, robust in both content and assessment and they offer insight into the expertise, skills and professional approach needed to practice in an early childhood setting.”

Below is some further information about each of the qualifications:

 

Crossfields Institute Level 3 Diploma in Holistic Baby and Child Care (Early Years Educator)

The aim of this qualification is to provide the learner with the expertise, skills and professional approach needed to become an EYE qualified holistic early years practitioner, and includes classroom based and placement hours. This qualification prepares learners to use a Steiner Waldorf and Pikler approach to baby and early child education and care, appropriate to holistic and mainstream settings.

Learners completing this qualification may proceed directly to work in an early childhood setting, for example in the role of an early years educator, adult and child group leader, or childminder and carer of children under 3 years, in a Steiner Waldorf or mainstream setting. Learners can also progress to the NCFE CACHE Level 4 Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Studies (EYE) (VRQ).

Learners interested in studying this qualification should contact Emerson College, East Sussex +44 (0)1342 822 238; +44 (0)1342 826 055 or email registrar@emerson.org.uk

 

Crossfields Institute Level 4 Diploma in Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Studies (EYE)
Crossfields Institute Level 5 Diploma in Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Studies – Leadership and Management

These Crossfields Institute qualifications were originally created in collaboration with subject specialists including London Steiner Kindergarten Training Company Ltd and Dorothy Marlen in order to provide the learner with the expertise, skills and professional approach needed to be an holistic early childhood educator.

Learners interested in studying this qualification should contact either The London Steiner Kindergarten Training Company by contacting the course administrator Suzanne Leek at: Suzanne.Leek@ntlworld.com. The London Steiner Kindergarten Training Company based in London with residentials in Gloucestershire.

Alternatively, learners can also contact North of England Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Studies by contacting the course coordinator Jill Taplin at Jill@neswec.org.uk or telephone 01782 504567. This course is based in York with residentials in the Midlands.

 

Any organisations wishing to deliver this qualification should contact Crossfields Institute at info@crossfieldsinstitute.com or 01453 808118. Crossfields Institute is a Gloucestershire based education charity, approved by Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulations in England) as an awarding organisation. The Institute specialises in the development of specialist qualifications for providers with a particular vision or ethos.

New Horticulture and Forestry qualification launched

New Horticulture and Forestry qualification launched

Crossfields Institute and The Orchard Project are delighted to announce the launch of

Crossfields Institute Level 2 Award in Forest Gardening

This qualification is open for registrations from 10 February 2021

This Crossfields Institute qualification was created in collaboration with The Orchard Project in order to provide learners with:

  • an understanding of forest gardening
  • a thorough understanding of how to plan, plant and manage a forest garden
  • the practical skills to engage in planting, pruning, grafting and soil enhancement
  • plant identification skills and familiarity and understanding of botanical terminology

This qualification was developed in response to the growing interest in forest gardening as a way of producing food in a way that is low maintenance, has a low carbon footprint, encourages biodiversity, and is resilient to climate change. This is a relatively new area of expertise however and is not well understood by the public, so there is a need to teach people the skills to create well designed and well-maintained forest gardens.

  • Any learners who are interested in finding out more about this qualification should contact The Orchard Project on 07525 115209 or at orchard@theorchardproject.org.uk
  • Any organisations wishing to deliver this qualification should contact Crossfields Institute at info@crossfieldsinstitute.com or 01453 808118

Crossfields Institute is a Gloucestershire based education charity, approved by Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulations in England) as an awarding organisation. The Institute specialises in the development of specialist qualifications for providers with a particular vision or ethos.

The Orchard Project is the only national charity dedicated solely to the creation, restoration and celebration of community orchards. We aim to make a serious contribution to a better food system, based on people working together where they live to produce and harvest their own fruit.

Animal Nature: Understanding the Nature of Animals

Join us for this workshop in which we will seek a deeper understanding of ‘animal nature’. Drawing on insights from a range of disciplines (science, art, agriculture and ecopsychology) we will delve into the many ways in which our lives interface with those of the animals around us.

Saturday February 23th 2019
9 AM- 7 PM
The Museum in the Park, Stroud, Gloucestershire

Full attendance: £65 (light lunch included)

Morning Sessions

Animals Underground – Dr Liz Hamilton
Environmental Sciences: University of Gloucester

Seeing the Animal Whole – Ed Berger
Biodynamic Land Manager: Ruskin Mill Trust

Afternoon Sessions

Encountering Animal – Roger Duncan
Systemic Family Therapist

Animal Ethics: Perspectives – Dr Isis Brook
Research Fellow Crossfields Institute International

Animals & Transformation – Jonathan Code
Director and Researcher Crossfields Institute International

To book the course by phone 01453 808118
or email jane.tyler@crossfieldsinstitute.com

Raising happy girls

The author and childcare expert Steve Biddulph’s latest book is out today 20th April.  Following on from his book on raising boys the new book: 10 Things Girls Need Most To Grow Up Strong and Free,  tackles the possibly even trickier subject of how to raise girls.

There is a great deal of concern about girls health and wellbeing at the current time.  Much of this focuses on the way social media can work to undermine a girl’s confidence and set up damaging rather than empowering role models.  For a taste of the book’s central message have a look at the article by Lorraine Candy for the Sunday Times magazine.  This is available on Steve’s website.  There is quite a harsh message for parents here but see what you think, even if you don’t have young girls to raise.

http://www.stevebiddulph.com/Site_1/UK_Times_Article.html