Learners – FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ). If your question isn’t answered here, please contact one of our Lead Scotland Learning Coordinators or our head office.

I (or someone I support) want to explore education but find it challenging to learn in group or traditional classroom settings. Can Lead Scotland provide home-based learning support? 

Yes, Lead can provide learning at home or in community-based venues in areas with active learning projects. Check out our learning services to see if one of our Lead Scotland Coordinators is in your area 

 

Is Lead Scotland a college? 

No. We have links and good relationships with colleges and other learning providers. We are an independent voluntary organisation, and our aim is to widen access to learning for disabled people and carers and provide support to get started. Some of our learners’ transition to college or higher education after learning with us. Please go to the section about accreditation for more information on courses we offer.  

 

What does a Lead Scotland Learning Coordinator do? 

Learning Coordinators have many parts to their jobs. In collaboration with learners, Coordinators work to understand learner goals, develop action plans to achieve them, and provide guidance on potential learning pathways and opportunities. Coordinators also partner and connect with other organisations (learning providers, employers, other services) to get the best choice and outcomes for learners.  

 

What sort of learning can I engage with? 

Depending on your location, learners can explore a wide range of subjects, including literacy, numeracy, digital skills, employability and independent living skills. Learning can be tailored to your needs, whether through one-to-one support or small group sessions, and can be delivered formally (leading to qualification) or informally. 

 

What areas does Lead Scotland cover? 

 Local authority areas with dedicated learning projects are detailed on our website. We also sometimes have Scotland-wide opportunities available (such as Cyber Security and Internet Safety webinars and qualifications). Some of our courses are also available for free online at My Lead – Homepage | Lead Scotland.  

 

What is the referral process to get started with Lead Scotland? 

 Referrals can be made directly by the prospective learner (self-referral) or through a service provider or supporter, with the learner’s consent. To begin, visit the project page for your local authority and choose one of the following options to get in touch: 

 
-Complete the online project enquiry form   
-Email the project’s designated e-mail address   
-Call the project using the phone numbers listed on the website   
-Or contact our Head Office 

 

How many hours per week can I learn with Lead Scotland?  

Learning interaction varies depending on project, but learners typically engage with us for one or a few hours per week. We also aim to empower learners to engage in self-study and become independent with their learning.  

 

Can I gain accredited qualifications with Lead Scotland?  

Absolutely! Lead Scotland is a Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) centre, and depending on the project, we offer formal learning opportunities that can lead to recognised qualifications. Examples include Core Skills in Communication, Numeracy, and Information Communication Technology (ICT), as well as Steps to Work Awards. In partnership with Newbattle Abbey College, we also offer Adult Achievement Awards (AAAs), which are accredited by the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) and recognise any form of learning you’ve completed in the past 12 months. 

We strive to make the qualification process as accessible and straightforward as possible. We’ll discuss your assessment needs and can conduct assessments in your home or online. Depending on the qualification, assessments may be taken in parts, can involve prompting and assistive tools like calculators, or even a scribe, if needed.  

If you’re interested in pursuing a qualification, please speak with your Learning Coordinator in your local authority area. We’re here to support you every step of the way. 

 

I heard you can loan me a computer for learning? 

Lead Scotland is dedicated to promoting digital literacy and inclusion for disabled individuals and carers. To support learners, some of our projects offer laptops and tablets on a temporary loan basis, helping participants engage fully in their learning journey. Additionally, we occasionally receive donated devices through initiatives like the National Device Bank, which we can offer to learners for permanent use. We also assist eligible learners in securing their own equipment through funding opportunities, such as the ILF Technology Grant. We have also on occasion helped learners to try assistive technologies (as available).  Ask your Learning Coordinator about what is available in your local authority area.  

 

Is Lead Scotland on social media? 

Yes, we are active on several social media platforms! Connect with us to stay updated on our latest news, events and opportunities.  

Facebook 
X 
LinkedIn 
Instagram 
YouTube 

 

Do Lead Scotland provide other services other than learning?  

 We do! We have a Helpline Service which operates nationally and a Befriending Service (currently Fife only).