Gweithdy 2 Workshop 2 Yr Awdurdod Addysg Drydyddol The Tertiary Education Authority Neil Surman, Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government

Tertiary Education and Research Commission for Wales

Consultation process The White Paper was launched on 20 June and is open until 23 October. The proposals are high level and will be followed up by a technical consultation expected early next year. Kirsty Williams has said: “This consultation proposes a ‘made in Wales’ approach to post-compulsory education and training so that it is easier for people to learn and acquire skills throughout their careers. Our lives and economy are undergoing huge technological change. The knowledge and skills needed in a transformed workplace mean that ‘average is over’. Doing nothing, or maintaining the status quo, is not a viable option. I encourage all who have an interest in shaping a post-compulsory education and training sector which meets the challenges and opportunities ahead - business, learners and providers – to respond to this consultation.”

The Tertiary Education & Research Commission for Wales The Tertiary Education & Research Commission for Wales would replace HEFCW and provide strategic direction & leadership for the whole PCET sector. The Commission’s functions would include:  Strategic planning of educational & skills delivery across PCET; Funding, quality assessment & enhancement, and managing performance/risk across PCET; Oversee & co-ordinate Welsh Government research and innovation expenditure; and a step-change in available data, including measuring educational progression, destinations & outcomes.

The Commission’s Focus Protecting the interests of learners and ensuring that vocational and academic routes are equally valued. Through strategic planning and funding, the Commission would also be responsible for aligning PCET more closely with the needs of employers in Wales, helping to build a stronger future economy.

Questions Have we defined the problem correctly? Is the solution proposed in the White Paper the right one? What have we missed? How best to work with training providers as we take forward our work?