I would just like to take up a point made by Martin concerning AHRB funding. I know of a recent case where although a candidate had secured a place on a course they had to give it up because they were not awarded a grant by the AHRB, despite having a 2.1 degree and over a years practical archive experience in a public record office. The person concerned was told by the AHRB that although they could not give any feedback on applications, over 5,000 applicants applied for 1,600 awards. If the figures are correct it is very worrying for the profession. Especially given that there appears to be a shortfall in the number of qualified archivist out there? Although there are Career Development Loans available it is not always an option for people already up to the eyeballs in debt from their first degrees. I know that the candidate was told that we live in an age where debt is acceptable; surely this is a personal choice. I think that one of the central problems with present fundin!
g is that the AHRB is a research body which appears to award grants based primarily on academic achievement and not as should be, on a balanced combination of academic achievement, references and practical experience? Without feedback it is difficult to judge otherwise. Perhaps it is time to look to the European Union for possible alternative funding?
Sorry if this is a bit garbled. And no, I don't have time on my hands, this is my lunch break.
Victoria Turrell
Archivist
CRO (Barrow)
********************************************************************************
* This e-mail contains confidential information (which may also be legally *
* privileged) and is intended solely for the use of the intended named *
* recipient. If you are not the intended recipient you may not disclose, copy, *
* distribute or retain any part of this message or its attachments. If you *
* have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately *
* by using the reply facility in your e-mail software. All copies of the *
* message received in error should be destroyed. *
* Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the original author. *
* This email message has been scanned for viruses, and declared to be virus *
* free at the point of exit from Cumbria County Council's network. *
********************************************************************************
|