Thursday 4th December 2008
America Square Conference Centre, London EC3

Conference Papers

If you would like to order the papers for this conference, including the slide presentations as they were presented to the delegate on the day, click here.

The machinery of government changes, proposed in the ‘Raising Expectations’ white paper, are again requiring the further education sector to tackle new challenges and to prove its excellence. The restructuring of the sector and the shift of funding responsibilities to local authorities also means that the sector has more opportunities then ever to take hold of its own fortune and further build its reputation.

The joint DCSF and DIUS consultation on the changes to 14-19 funding responsibilities earlier in the year was trying to drive forward the 14-19 agenda. Strong leadership is needed in the sector as the raising of the learning leaving age to 18 demands the effective delivery of new entitlements for young people. Collaboration within the sector and with local authorities and employers is essential, particularly when delivering qualifications such as the Diplomas. The Framework for Excellence supports the structural changes, as it will ensure excellence amongst learning providers and drive up performance in an increasingly self-regulated sector from 2020.

Bringing together heads of schools and colleges, learning providers, local authorities and employers, this conference will look at the challenges and opportunities arising from structural changes proposed in the latest white paper. It will also consider how an increasingly self-regulated sector
will be able to ensure its own good reputation and deliver excellent provision in a demand-led environment.

For further information contact Paul Rushworth on 020 7324 4364,
e-mail paul.rushworth@neilstewartassociates.co.uk