What Matters to Us
COLLEGE CONFERENCE ASKS ‘WHAT MATTERS TO US’?
Over 200 people from the Social Care and Early Years sector took part in a national ‘What Matters to Us?’ conference at Ayrshire College’s Kilmarnock Campus on Wednesday 20 March.
Bringing together partners from Iriss, the Scottish Social Services Council, College Development Network, Early Years Scotland, the ALLIANCE, University of West of Scotland and college sector representatives, the event provided an opportunity for final year HN students to hear from inspiring speakers and take part in topical workshops.
Guest speakers provided inspiration at the conference, offering a range of perspectives on the key skills of leadership and partnership working, with themes around person-centred and person-led care, equipping future practitioners with the knowledge to provide more holistic support.
Conference Chair, Kerry Musselbrook, Project Manager at Iriss said “'We were delighted to be involved in this national conference. It was a pleasure to be able to support students and inspire them at this key transitional point – celebrating them and their professions which make a massive difference to people’s lives.
“In planning the programme, partners wanted to encourage them to use this power, and show everyday leadership to be the very best they can be - listening to what really matters to people. It’s about professionals and non-professionals working together to achieve real positive change.”
HNC Social Services students assisted with registration and directing delegates to the workshops on the day.
A marketplace of information stalls provided the opportunity for students to link with organisations who provided information supporting career development.
Head of Learning and Skills – Health and Social Care, Christine Hutchison said “The care team from Ayrshire College were really proud to be asked to host this national conference. Students from Social Care and Early Years made the journey from across Scotland to attend. The stories from the guest speakers were inspiring, focusing on how their chosen paths makes them leaders both now and in the future in caring for our most vulnerable in society.”
The conference closed with a celebratory performance courtesy of Centrestage’s Catalyst Voices Choir.