Lifelong learning and empowerment: a model in practice

In July 2000, eight BBC staff graduated from the University of Northumbria at Newcastle with an Advanced Diploma in Lifelong Learning (Records Management). This is the first award in a new and innovative framework aimed at meeting the needs of industry in a flexible way. Explains the model for lifelong learning awards, which focuses on the individual or group of individuals and their specific education and development needs, and evaluates its use as part of a training programme at the BBC. The evaluation, based on the views of the student participants, other BBC staff involved and staff from the university, is overwhelmingly positive. The award has had a significant impact on the roles and responsibilities of the BBC staff as well as the status of records management within the BBC. With the collaboration, support and commitment of all those involved, the model was successful in empowering participants both as learners and records professionals.