Rewards for Learning: Nurturing success in young people with housing issues

The Rewards for Learning survey was carried out to explore the different methods used for acknowledging achievements in young people who have had housing issues. A postal and online survey was carried out between January 2007 and April 2007 to provide a snapshot of how many youth housing services recognise learning in young people, what methods they are using to do this, and what the barriers to rewarding learning are. Interviews were also carried out to provide the content for case studies which look more closely into how some methods have worked in specific organisations.

A report on this survey is available from June 2007 which addresses the following themes:

What reasons are there for rewarding learning? The survey and additional research showed a variety of reasons for recognising achievements in young people, most importantly the huge benefits experienced by the young people themselves.

What methods for rewarding learning are available? A directory of the range of methods available is provided, along with a more detailed look at the pros and cons of each method. The value of using informal methods to recognise achievement, particularly with vulnerable young people, is also emphasised.

A snapshot survey of methods for rewarding learning The report analyses the postal and online survey results which were received from a range of housing support and homeless services. The range of methods used is discussed along with a look at the benefits and difficulties experienced by service providers and young people.

What has worked for others? Case studies are provided from interviews with housing support services which use a range of different methods for recognising achievements in young people. The case studies look at the reasons for choosing different methods and how this worked in practice for each service provider interviewed.

Background Material The report provides signposting to relevant publications and some useful publications and websites.

For further information or to order a copy of the report contact Wendy Devall, 0131 226 4382.

You can order copies of the report for £10 + P&P from SCSH. Download PDF Booking Form Here

Engaging Young People Training on rewards for learning and service user involvement is taking place on 6th Sept 2007 in Edinburgh. Click for more details.