PDQB Reminder
Expressions of Interest due October 11th
A couple weeks ago, we shared information on the PDQB initiative that we are piloting. Based on discussions following our info-session last winter, we are going to proceed with this initiative on a trial basis and start by offering an opportunity for interested piping students to complete PDQB examinations in Ottawa for SCQF levels 2-4. Bob Worrall will be in Ottawa the weekend of the November 30th Knockout to administer exams.
How it will work:
Students (and their teachers) interested in this should familiarize themselves with PDQB syllabi and test requirements for respective SCQF levels 2, 3, and 4. More information can be found here.
Interested individuals are asked to complete this brief Expression of Interest form so the Branch can the gauge interest and follow up accordingly. We ask that all that are interested respond by Friday, October 11th.
The Branch will follow up with you directly, confirm next steps, and coordinate registration with the PDQB.
At this time, we will begin our trial with piping students, however we plan to expand this to drumming soon. Certification of proctors and testing for higher grade pipers is an area to build on moving forward as well.
Why is the Branch doing this?
As we strive to increase the uptake of piping and drumming in our region, the PDQB system offers a way for pipers and drummers to have their skills recognized in a non-competition manner, and provides a fully recognized certification framework that could be leveraged for broader educational aims.
As this is a new initiative that is somewhat different from previous Branch activities, we are keen for your thoughts as we test the feasibility of this for the long run. If you have any questions, please write to us!
Branch AGM
The Ottawa Branch AGM will be held before the next Knockout on Saturday, October 26th at the HMCS Bytown Naval Officers’ Mess. Items for discussion include elections and motions for the PPBSO AGM this fall. Those present at this meeting will discuss a range of issues related to the management of the Society, including motions from member branches for rule changes to the PPBSO Rule Book.
If you would like to propose changes to the PPBSO Rule Book please forward a proposed motion to president@ppbso-ottawa.org. Following initial vetting by the Branch executive, draft motions will be discussed and voted on at the Branch AGM and then forwarded to the main PPBSO office if approved.
From the PPBSO main office: “All branch motions for the AGM must go through the PPBSO Board’s Governance Committee for vetting before being submitted to the Board of Directors for approval to appear on the AGM agenda. As in year’s past, the purpose of this vetting and approval isn’t to make a value judgement on the content of the motions themselves, but to provide clarity of wording, amalgamate similar motions from multiple branches, and to confirm consistency with applicable laws and the letters patent (and SLP) of the organization”.
Proposed Rule Book motions must be received by Monday, October 14th.