17My research question was: 'What is the quality of the guidance provision for students in the social studies/childcare department?' By using the methodology I learned a great deal about the organisation in which I work, for example, the key role of class tutors in guidance provision. Key learnings for me included; . the importance of collaboration in the planning process, . making your findings public, . and working with uncertainty. Additional thoughts . The programme offered the opportunity to network and to exchange ideas with fellow practitioners. . It was a privilege to have Jean McNiff as a facilitator and mentor on the programme. I found her questions and comments both thought provoking and challenging.. I think it is a significant development that NCGE has responded to the particular needs of guidance counsellors in Further EducationPost PrimaryModule 1 from a CFE Perspective continuedNCGE NEWS Winter 2011Additional InformationNCGE will continue to deliver Module 1 to guidance counsellors working in both post-primary and CFE sectors. Interested guidance counsellors should apply for the programme through http://vle.ncge.ieCLICK toLINKOverall, I found the programme to be worthwhile and a positive learning experience. I have expanded my knowledge base and have acquired skills which allow me to conduct action research for my continuing professional development. I would like to thank City of Dublin VEC and City of Waterford VEC for the opportunity to participate in the programme'.

18NCGE NEWS Winter 2011Post PrimaryHave Your SayThe re-development of the Guidance Counsellor's HandbookWhat you saidThe information below provides a summary of the feedback (the most popular responses to each question are indicated) received to date from 34 guidance counsellors.At the Higher Options exhibition held this autumn NCGE advised guidance counsellors that the Centre would be inviting guidance counsellors, working in the post primary and Colleges of Further Education (CFE) sectors, to complete a survey on the re-development of the Guidance Counsellor's Handbook. The survey was distributed to guidance counsellors electronically through the Qualifax mailing list in September and followed up again with a reminder circulated in October. The aim of the survey is to inform the re-development of the Handbook through feedback received from guidance counsellors. 1. What do you like about the current Guidance Counsellor's Handbook? 2. What do you not like? . The information provided in the Handbook. The format ie. a hard-copy resource which is easily accessible. The layout and structure. The Handbook is too large and bulky. The information provided needs to be updated. Lack of clear information and guidelines. The design - needs to be made more attractive