REVIEW OF FE STRATEGY Post Primary Review July 2003

Purpose of Review To undertake a comprehensive re- consideration of the strategy for FE To define the role and strategic aims for the sector in the context of wider Departmental policies on learning

Scope of Review To examine the relationships for planning, management, governance and funding of sector The relationships between FE and others - universities, schools, training organisations, voluntary providers and economic bodies Appropriateness of current size and structure

Process Establish consensus on role of FE (Jan 03) Evidence of performance Supporting Economic Development Widening Access and Increasing Participation Improving Quality and Raising Standards Efficiency of Sector Ideas Paper on Way Forward (Autumn 03)

FE Sector Around 200,000 enrolments each year; c130k vocational; 70k leisure and hobby Courses at levels 1-5; 12% are HE courses Approx 50k enrolments aged Majority age attend full-time; those over age 19 attend mainly part-time; 35% increase in enrolments in 6 priority skill areas in 3 years

Evidence The Mission of Sector Relationship with Economic Development Current Model of Incorporation Interface with Education/Training Sectors Performance Size and Structure

Response from Consultation Need for a coherent strategy for FE to be included in collaboration with schools Collaboration not competition Strategic planning at local level to ensure use of specialist resources in FE Parity of esteem between academic and vocational education

Partnerships with Schools Currently c11,000+ pupils from schools in FE colleges for some part of their provision FE budget - almost £2.8m paid in 2003/04 based on 2001/02 data Various types of provision

Range of Provision Alternative Education Provision Key Stage 4 Flexibility Link Courses for individuals or group of students Introductory Courses After school provision

Current Model KS4 flexibility motivates pupils Duplication of provision between schools and FE (including small sixth forms) Status and esteem Selection by some schools at age 16 Different funding mechanisms Assessment is not fit for purpose

Response to Consultation Need for a coherent strategy for FE to be included in collaboration with schools Collaboration not competition Strategic planning at local level to ensure use of specialist resources in FE Parity of esteem between academic and vocational education