A Guide to Community Learning and Development in Scotland

Introduction

Community Learning and Development(CLD) in Scotland refers to a distinct educational based approach to lifelong learning that aims to empower individuals and communities to participate actively in, and shape their own, learning and development.

CLD is a collaborative and inclusive process that involves various stakeholders including learners, young people, community members, community volunteers, local authorities, voluntary and charity sector organisations, educational institutions, and other organisations across the public and third sectors.

CLD is a field of professional practice that enables people 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 uses a range of formal and informal methods of learning and social development with individuals and
groups in their communities. CLD programmes and activities are developed in dialogue with communities and participants, working particularly with those excluded from participation in the decisions and processes that shape their lives.

Through working in these ways, CLD extends the reach of democracy and widens its scope.