North Forum

Get Yourself Ahead

In 2009 Adult Learning secured funding from the North Forum to undertake a 'Get Yourself Ahead' project to widen access to Further Learning through developing craft and textile skills.  49 people took part in the project in workshops across Shetland.  Many participants have progressed to further learning either at Shetland College,  the Open Learning College of the Arts or within the Evening Class programme.  

A need was also identified for business courses for craft producers.  Train Shetland is now offering this as part of the Business Gateway programme.

We continue to have a strong range of craft and textile classes which support Shetland's ambition to be well known for our creative talents.

This project alerted us to the opportunities we have to encourage evening class participants to move on to mainstream college classes.  This year we will distribute information to current learners to inform them about local opportunities for progression to Further Education. Learners really can 'Get themselves ahead' by taking those first steps into learning!

 

Some of the workshops included:

 Textile Jewellery in Whalsay

Learners experimented with natural and man made fibres incorporating scraps or found objects to create textile jewellery using stitch and bonding techniques.

Learner's Quotes:

"I was able to expand and develop existing skills and learn some new ones. A very constructive and creative day."

"I have learned new techniques and developed my textile abilities. A very welcoming group and plenty of resources to use. Thank you, would do a course like this again."

 

Spindle Spinning in Bigton

Both a beginners and a beyond beginners workshop took place, covering the basics of spinning yarn from Shetland fleece and expanding skills to using different fibres and techniques.

 Learner's Quotes:

"It was fun and interesting. Learned a whole new skill. Loved it being over a weekend, no rush! Brilliant to have an opportunity to learn a traditional Shetland craft."

"It was fascinating to learn more about the natural Shetland fleece and I now have more confidence to continue on my own a little - I would like to continue with more spindle-spinning."

"I enjoyed learning how to spin and have bought my own spindle. I plan to show my mum how to spin."

 

 Weaving in Lerwick

Learners created a cushion cover using basic weaving techniques.

 Learner's Quotes:

"I enjoyed the opportunity of trying weaving on a floor loom. Friendly, well run and fun workshop."

"I now know that I would like to continue with further learning, such as the night class. There are so many possibilities with weaving, I would like to learn more."