Published Date: Feb 10th, 2025
Learners who took part in the ‘Step In’ course recently came together at Abbeyview Hub to celebrate their achievements. The event, hosted by Fife Council and Fife College recognised the hard work and dedication of those who have taken the first steps towards further learning, employment, and volunteering.
In partnership with Fife Council’s Communities and Neighbourhoods team and Fife College, the ‘Step In’ course has been delivered in High Valleyfield, Dunfermline, and Cowdenbeath, offering a short, practical programme that helps adults re-engage with learning, build confidence, and develop valuable skills in a supportive and relaxed environment, making it an ideal choice for those looking to progress into further education.
The event hosted by staff from Fife Council and Fife College, welcomed around 80 people, including 28 learners along with friends, family, and local councillors to celebrate their success, and many learners found the courage to stand on stage and share how the course has positively impacted their lives, families, and communities.
Certificates were presented in various subjects, including REHIS Food Hygiene, Cooking Skills, Health and Wellbeing, 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families, Ootnaboot Down the Coastal Path, Paediatric First Aid, Emergency First Aid, and Memory Scrapbooking. Some groups also completed the Health Issues in the Community course and the Scottish Mental Health First Aid course.
During their time learning, each group took part in a community fundraising project, collectively raising over £2,500 for causes such as the Blood Bikes, Lochgelly DAST Unit, Teenage Cancer Trust, and Wee Jamie's Journey.
Linda Erskine, Spokesperson for Communities at Fife Council said: “It’s fantastic to see the impact that the ‘Step In’ course has had on learners across Fife. This initiative provides a valuable opportunity for adults to gain confidence and skills in a welcoming environment, helping them take their next steps towards further education, employment, or volunteering.”
Dennis Savage, Assistant Principal, Fife College added: “We are proud to work in partnership with Fife Council to support learners in their journey. Seeing so many participants progress onto further opportunities demonstrates the importance of accessible learning programmes like ‘Step In’. We look forward to continuing to help learners achieve their goals.”
Many of the participants have now moved on to the ‘Step Up’ course at Fife College, while others have joined the ‘Skill Up’ course within their own communities or have taken up volunteering opportunities.