Community Learning and Development (CLD)

Community Learning and Development (CLD) is the field of professional practice in Scotland which includes youth work, community-based adult learning, family learning, and community development. CLD practice enables people of all ages to identify their own individual and collective goals, to engage in learning and take action to bring about change for themselves and their communities. CLD is a key element of the education sector in Scotland.

CLD programmes and activities take place in community and educational settings. The CLD workforce in Scotland is diverse and includes practitioners in both the public and third sectors who share common professional values and competences.

Education Scotland supports the CLD sector in the following ways:

We also host the CLD Standards Council for Scotland, the national professional body for CLD.

Organisations supporting CLD

Organisations who support adult learning and youth work.

National Community Learning and Development (CLD) Policy

A summary of the core policies and related guidance which underpin CLD work in Scotland.

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