Pembrokeshire College's community-based education and training PET Project is drawing to a close after two and half years and is seeking the views of anyone who has participated in any training arranged by the project. "A key factor about the project is that learners have had a choice in what they study as well as where they would like to learn in their community," commented PET officer, Janet Davies, "So it is quite fitting for learners to be heavily involved in measuring the impact of the training they have received on their lives. "We have made things easy for people to take part. They can complete a survey online at http://www.pembs.ac.uk/community">www.pembs.ac.uk/community or call 01437 753139 and speak to Alannah who will take any answers over the telephone." The project team will produce a set of social accounts to measure the impact the project has had. The accounts will focus on the social, environmental and economic benefits of the project. A report will be available on the college website - http://www.pembs.ac.uk/community">www.pembs.ac.uk/community -when the accounts have been audited by Cylch, a social enterprise organisation pioneering social accounting within Wales. "Social accounting is a formalised way of reporting the way in which organisations improve the quality of people's lives, support the community, contribute to the local economy or safeguard the environment," added Janet. "Social accounting also provides feedback on whether organisations achieve their aims and objectives. "The PET Project aims were to provide quality learning opportunities - with nationally recognised qualifications - at local community venues, appropriate to the needs of the community. Project funding was there to assist in the reduction or removal of barriers to learning, helping beneficiaries to enter or return to the workplace or further learning." The PET Project is a European Social Funded project delivering learning in the community. All courses offer qualifications and are provided free of charge. If you are interested in social accounting or would like to know more about the PET project, contact Janet Davies, the PET Project officer at Pembrokeshire College, on 01437 753139.
