BLI study - survey of participants

The Black Leadership Initiative (BLI) commissioned this survey to provide an in-depth picture of the experiences of participants and the benefits they gained from their involvement in the mentoring, secondment and career development opportunities provided by the BLI. In particular, the BLI wanted to know the extent to which their programs had contributed to the career development of participants. The survey also identified ways in which the BLI programs benefit colleges and, by implication, why they should be supported by post-16 providers and funders. The evidence collected from the interviewees who participated in this study would suggest that, at the level of both personal development and the improvement of skills and knowledge, the BLI has offered its participants positive and valuable programs. The study found that the benefits that BLI participants described ranged from developments in their levels of confidence and aspirations, to specific skills gained during their BLI mentoring, shadowing or career development programs. Participants had the opportunity to engage in a range of practical and interactive activities during their BLI involvement, which provided direct opportunities for individual development. In addition, the participants' colleges and colleagues have been seen to have benefited from their employees' involvement with the BLI.

The Black Leadership Initiative (BLI) commissioned this survey to provide an in-depth picture of the experiences of participants and the benefits they gained from their involvement in the mentoring, secondment and career development opportunities provided by the BLI. In particular, the BLI wanted to know the extent to which their programs had contributed to the career development of participants. The survey also identified ways in which the BLI programs benefit colleges and, by implication, why they should be supported by post-16 providers and funders. The evidence collected from the ...  [+] Show more