OWING to the imposition by the UK Government of a second period of lockdown in England to mitigate the spread of coronavirus, the difficult decision has been made to postpone the launch of The Salvation Army’s new Learning Pathways course. The event, which was due to take place at International Headquarters (IHQ) in London on 17 November, will now be rescheduled for early 2021.
The postponement has been taken out of an abundance of caution, in order to adhere to the prevailing legislation and to protect participants and film crew members. The IHQ building will remain closed throughout the new lockdown, except to essential personnel.
The Learning Pathways course itself remains on track to accept its first students in March 2021. The certificate-, diploma- and degree-level content – offered via downloadable materials and an online learning facility – will offer an opportunity for anyone connected with The Salvation Army to deepen their understanding in the areas of community engagement, community development and community project management. The certificate-level material gives the foundation for engaging with a community using an Integrated Mission and Faith-Based Facilitation approach, bringing together theology and best practice, giving practical skills for community engagement and for supporting course participants’ personal development.
Major Joan Münch, Capacity Development & Resource Consultant at IHQ, who has project-managed the Learning Pathways initiative says: ‘While the postponement is naturally disappointing, we need to stay safe and follow the government’s guidelines to protect ourselves and others. We are excited about the numerous ways in which Learning Pathways will enrich the communities that we work in, and look forward to unveiling the course early next year.’
A new date for the launch event will be shared in due course. This will be followed by training events to enable facilitators to support Learning Pathways students in their local contexts.
IHQ Communications
International Headquarters
