Since the launch of Erasmus+ in 2014, Coleg Gwent has been an active participant in ColegauCymru’s Erasmus+ consortium projects. The college has steadily increased the number of learners who participate in the programme and in our 2020 project, has over 200 learners who will undertake work placements overseas from a wide range of subject areas including Public Services, Sport, Photography, Animal Management and Travel & Tourism.
The College’s Health & Social Care department has been particularly active in Erasmus+ projects and, as a result, has built strong partnerships with organisations in Finland, Poland and Sweden. The trust that has been established between the college and partner organisations means that the learners have the opportunity to undertake quality 2-week work experience placements in these countries, sometimes living with host families who provide additional insights into respective cultures and languages. These placements ensure that the learning acquired overseas contributes to the achievement of qualifications here in Wales with evidence and witness statements obtained for learner portfolios.
One Coleg Gwent Childcare student spoke of her experience living and working in Poland for 2 weeks,
"I gained experience working in a special needs school in Poland, where I learnt about the differences and the similarities to special needs schools in Wales. I have learnt a lot about Poland's culture, and I hope that the placement will improve my future practice working with children."
