Further Education
A high quality and responsive further education sector is essential if we are to realise our ambitions of strengthening UK economic performance and transforming the life chances of millions of people. Further education is unique in operating across society, having a real impact on businesses, young people and adults, including those from disadvantaged and minority communities.
Public investment in further education has increased substantially since 1997. At the same time, standards have been rising. 77 per cent of all college students and 60 per cent of those doing full apprenticeships or NVQs now succeed.
With the 2006 FE White Paper and 'World Class Skills' (2007), there is in place a comprehensive reform programme. DIUS is working to create a responsive further education system with a focus on skills, employability and social mobility. Without colleges and training providers, we will not achieve the challenging targets set by Lord Leitch. Over the period to 2020, we need to see investment in skills by employers and individuals far outstripping public investment. That means huge new opportunities for further education.
Please explore the below pages to find out more about Further Education.
New Relationship
The work to transform the FE sector is well underway. Select for information on self-regulation and the impact of Machinery of Government changes
The FE Communications Gateway Panel is challenging Government and the LSC to improve their communications with FE providers especially when promoted as publications.
FE workforce:
Lifelong Learning UK (LLUK)
Find out more about: Qualifications for teachers | Workforce reforms | Recruitment (Catalyst Programme) | Workforce Strategy Implementation Plan
Centre for Excellence in Leadership (CEL)
Find out more about: Qualifications for principals
Institute for Learning (IfL)
Find out more about: Professional registration
Vocational Qualifications
Visit the QCA for information on the Qualifications and Credit Framework and the National Database of Accredited Qualifications
Vocation Qualifications Reform
The UK Vocational Qualifications Reform Programme website provides information for organisations implementing reforms to the UK vocational qualifications reform system.
Safeguarding
For those in FE working with vulnerable adults, recent guidance can be downloaded or ordered from here
National Improvement Strategy
The QIA-led National Improvement Strategy offers services to help colleges and providers drive up quality and standards. Select here too for information on the LSC's Framework for Excellence and intervention strategy
Governance and Legal
Select here for links to the legal framework and consultation and guidance documents.
Apprenticeships
Keep up-to-date with latest developments on Apprenticeships
Investing in further education
Funding for participation rose 48 per cent in real terms between 1997 and 2005 and capital budgets rose from £40 million in 1990-00 to £498 million in 2007-08. Read the report on the demand-led funding consultation.
Register of Education and Training Providers
Any education institution recruiting international students should select the following link for guidance.
Find out more about Register of Education and Training Providers in the UK
FE and Skills E-newsletter
This newsletter is for all colleges and providers, adult education services and partner organisations to keep you updated on the latest developments in FE and Skills policy.
Find out more about the new FE and Skills E-newsletter and how to subscribe
