The training and education sector, both nationally and locally within Norfolk, is continually evolving.  More recently, the range of training opportunities being offered by organisations within the sector has grown along with an increasing number of accredited programmes designed specifically for the sector.  Alongside this has also been an increasing interest in and demand for training at all levels from within the sector locally.
Given recent changes and the increasing complexity of both the voluntary and community sector and the training sector, there have been some concerns emerging around training and employment for the sector.  “Meeting the Challenge”, the final report of the Voluntary Sector Continuing Professional Development Research Project emerged out of VOLCANN.  The development of the level four qualification came about as a result of this research, which was undertaken by the Research Centre at City College on behalf of the VOLCANN consortium.  This project generated anecdotal evidence from individuals and representatives of voluntary organisations that the sector’s continuing professional development largely occurred in an ‘ad hoc’ manner and lacked cohesion and progression pathways.
A key finding of the research was the overwhelming interest in a sector specific management qualification, which lead to the development, in conjunction with the sector and Edexcel of the Professional Development Certificate in Voluntary Sector Management, a professional management qualification equivalent to the Certificate in Management Studies.
Anecdotal information collected from students through evaluations, course committee meetings and general discussions has indicated that there is now a demand in the local voluntary and community sector for the development of a level 5 programme.

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