What we do and why we exist
The South West Grid for Learning is a not for profit charity set up by the 15 LAs in the South West to provide learners throughout the region safe, secure and reliable internet connectivity; broadband-enabled learning resources and services; help, support and advice in using the internet safely.
Vision
To be known as the first choice for procuring and delivering safe, secure and reliable information and communication technologies that support and enhance digital literacy and teaching and learning.
Mission
The advancement of education as a solely charitable purpose by any means relating to the effective use of information and communication technologies for the benefit of learners.
Values
The South West Grid for Learning adhere to the following values:
- Providing expert services
- Enhancing learning opportunities through the provision and use of standards driven,
safe, reliable and secure technologies
- Providing flexibility and choice
- Service excellence, through continuous improvement and innovation
- Security:
- Business continuity/resilience
- Information security: availability/ confidentiality/integrity
- Safety
Aims
A. To procure and manage safe and secure connectivity services
B. To promote good practice and provide practical support and expert advice
C. To communicate the benefits of services provided by SWGfL
D. To provide contract management
E. To prioritise and procure appropriate services based on user community need
F. To offer and provide training and events to inform and develop the skills of the user community
G. To deliver in partnership with member authorities government initiatives and strategies as appropriate
H. Maintain and develop a secure framework of interoperability for learning & MIS technologies
I. To provide leadership and conduct research that informs, advises and supports member authorities,
schools, external agencies and government
J. Liaise with other national and international agencies and partners to progress objectives
K. To be a professional, efficient, sustainable and resilient business
L. To enable and enhance positive outcomes for learners through the use of technology
Key Strategies
To achieve our aims, the following equally critical
strategies will be pursued by SWGfL:
1. Improve the skills and performance of the core project team by developing an organisational development plan
2. Improving the efficiency and quality of our service by developing and implementing a business improvement strategy
3. Improving the sustainability and financial resilience
of the charity through an effective financial management and investment strategy
4. Improving the perceptions of the charity through
a coherent branding and communications strategy which communicates the value of our services to our customers
5. Developing an overarching IT strategy to inform
the future technical development of the network and projects undertaken by the business
6. Focusing on our customers through an integrated
approach to service delivery, encompassing E-Safety
and E-Learning, underpinned by the managed service and SWGfL Merlin contracts and a commercial approach as outlined in our business plan
7. Enhancing and developing services by developing
closer relationships with Local Authorities and schools
8. Working with partners and external agencies
nationally and internationally to enhance our service
offering and raise the profile of the organisation