Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Why are we reshaping the Further Education sector?

FE colleges operate in a rapidly changing environment and need to be able to adapt to meet the evolving needs of learners and of the economy.   In a changing economic and educational landscape, we need to ensure that they offer an attractive and rewarding pathway for learners to gain the vocational skills they need to progress into employment and to improve their outcomes. 

In addition, to be able to attract inward investment and support local companies to grow, we need to be sure colleges are providing the skills which industry needs and the structures we are putting in place will ensure colleges will have the agility to evolve to meet the changing needs of the economy.  Given the pressures on public resources, it is also important that we ensure colleges are providing value for money for public funding.

Colleges face a range of challenges at present:

• A continuing skills gap at Levels 3 (A Level equivalent) and above, alongside a persistently high level of economic inactivity;
• Demographic changes over the next few years will see a rapid fall in the number of learners in the 16-19 age group;
• Challenges in attracting adult learners;
• Ongoing cost pressures.

In addition, FE Fit for the Future will take account of changes in the wider educational landscape.

How will college staff be involved in this work?

College staff and particularly those working directly with learners are best placed to consider how we can build on the excellent work already taking place in colleges to ensure that all learners can achieve their full potential.  We are currently engaging with each College’s senior management on how we can best involve staff at all levels in shaping further education for the 2030’s and beyond.  Through this section of the DfE website and through communication with colleges we will ensure that staff are kept up to date on progress and are made aware of how they can contribute.

Our first round of engagement with FE Colleges will be an in-depth discussion with the representatives of the college Governing Bodies and senior leadership teams of each college at their respective campuses.  This engagement starts this week and is scheduled to run for the next two- three weeks. 

As part of our engagement approach, we are looking at the possibility of organising wider engagement events in each college to explain what FE Fit for the Future is seeking to deliver and to take the views of staff on how this is delivered. 

How will the views of learners be taken into account?

We want to hear from people who are currently taking courses in FE colleges or those who have recently completed their courses.  We want to know what worked well for you and what we can improve?  We are currently working with colleges and will be engaging with student representatives to ensure learners’ views are taken into account.

Is this just a cost-cutting exercise?

While resources are limited, this programme is primarily about ensuring that we use our resources as effectively as possible to deliver better outcomes for learners, for employers and for broader society. 

How will the changes affect anyone who is currently enrolled on an FE Course?

For existing learners, there will be no change to their learning experience. They will continue to have access to the world class lecturers and facilities which colleges have to offer in order to achieve their goals.  This programme is about shaping Further Education for the future.

Over the 30 years since Colleges were set up as incorporated bodies, there have been many changes to how we live, work and learn and we need to ensure that colleges adapt their delivery to take account of those changes.  This is an opportunity to re-vision the role of further education to ensure that it continues to provide learners with the skills they need in a way which best suits their individual circumstances. 

So whether you are someone who is returning to education to improve your employment prospects or a young person who is considering their future career, we want to ensure that Further Education will provide you with an educational and career pathway that is tailored to your needs and aspirations.   

How will the needs of learners with Special Educational Needs (SEN) be taken into account?

Many of our learners currently need additional support. We want to make sure that Further Education offers all learners the help and support they need to meet their needs and to achieve their best outcomes. 

Our Minister has been clear in setting out her ambitions for supporting SEN learners to experience a seamless transition from school to college and to ensure any additional support arrangements are put in place as quickly as possible.  If you, or someone you know is attending an FE College and has special educational needs we would be keen to hear from you and we will work with colleges to make any necessary arrangements for you to have your voice heard.