Certificate ceremoney held at City Hall, Belfast

Supporting Communities was excited to recognise the success of 34 learners who completed our OCN Levels 2 and 3 in Community Development this autumn. A certificate ceremony took place on Friday, 21 November, at Belfast City Hall, with Lord Mayor Tracy Kelly awarding the certificates for their achievements.

The event was hosted jointly with NI Alternatives and Community Restorative Justice Ireland, providing a wonderful opportunity during Restorative Justice Week to highlight the impact of organisations working together across the community development sector.

Building on Success

Training Officer, Karla Turner, with some of the graduates

This marks the second year of our successful OCN training partnership with Alternatives, and we couldn't be prouder. Over the past two years, an impressive 57 learners have registered and successfully completed their qualifications, demonstrating the strong demand for quality community development training in our communities.

OCN Qualifications in Community Development

Supporting Communities offers three OCN levels in Community Development, starting with a foundation level that introduces core topics and concepts. The level 2 course explores the practical skills needed to deliver community projects in real depth. Through a combination of written assignments and supportive workshops, participants work together to identify and plan a community project, develop a monitoring and evaluation process, and design an effective marketing strategy for their project. It's all about building the hands-on skills that make community work happen.

As students progress, they learn to examine community development from a more strategic perspective. The Level 3 Award in Community Development is an AIEB-recognised Community Work Education and Training programme that takes things to the next level, and, excitingly, provides a pathway to higher education for those who want to continue their learning journey.

Throughout this course, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to run effective community organisations. This includes learning how to maintain and renew an organisation's volunteer resources, navigate the strategic planning process, and ensure governing bodies meet their responsibilities. Participants also explore how to maintain and report on key financial documents, develop programmes that are truly led by the people they serve, and complete effective funding applications. The course covers the critical importance of impact measurement within the third sector and examines the purpose and function of social enterprise as a model for sustainable community work.

Opening Doors to Higher Education

On the final day of the course at Greater Shankill Alternatives, our trainer, Karla, arranged for Rosemary Moreland and Isy Hawthorne from Ulster University to visit and speak with the learners about what comes next.

The Ulster University representatives shared information about further education opportunities at the Belfast campus, covering everything from delivery methods and support services to course duration, exit routes, and fees. Level 3 graduates can progress directly to Ulster University degree courses, even without prior qualifications, opening up incredible opportunities for our learners to continue their educational journey.

The session clearly resonated with participants, and we know that at least three learners across both groups are already seriously considering applying for the University’s September 2026 intake. It's wonderful to see how this programme is creating pathways to higher education and new career possibilities.

Ben Johnston from Alternatives also visited to outline the support available through his role for individuals, groups, and schools across the Shankill area, ensuring learners know what resources are available to them as they move forward.

Partnership Makes It Possible

Karla Turner from Supporting Communities with LIbby Blair from Alternatives Resorative Justice

The success of this programme really demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations work together effectively. As Alternatives is a Housing Community Network (HCN) group, the training delivery was funded by NIHE. The STAR project at Alternatives funded the OCN accreditation and certificate fees for both groups, ensuring the programme was accessible to everyone who wanted to participate.

Karla Turner, who delivered the training courses, said:

“This is what happens when strong local partnerships, accessible qualifications, and learner ambition come together: doors open, confidence grows, and futures begin to take shape. Community development is more than gaining a qualification - it’s about recognising potential, building connections, and taking meaningful steps forward.

That’s what makes delivering OCN qualifications so rewarding. You get to witness real moments of growth - someone finding their voice, making a new connection, or deciding to take the next step in their education or career. The impact is immediate and lasting, and it reaches far beyond the training room. It’s a privilege to be part of that journey.”

Looking Ahead

Congratulations once again to all our graduates on this significant achievement. Your commitment to personal and professional development strengthens community development practice across Northern Ireland and demonstrates the vital role of grassroots community work in building stronger, more sustainable communities.

We're excited to see where your new skills and knowledge will take you, whether that's advancing in your current role, taking on new community projects, or continuing your studies at the university level. You're making a real difference in your communities, and we're proud to have been part of your learning journey!

Interested in our training? Check out our courses here or get in touch to discuss!