157 Group publishes job outcomes case studies
20th June 2011
The 157 Group has published a set of case studies demonstrating how its member colleges are preparing for the job outcomes and skills conditionality policy initiatives being introduced by the government in summer 2011 as part of an effort to drive up employability rates across England and reward colleges for their hard work in helping learners gain suitable employment. The case studies also highlight the issues that still need to be addressed, such as defining 'job outcomes'; the practicalities of tracking learners; and the complex factors involved.
Lynne Sedgmore CBE, executive director of the 157 Group, said, "While colleges have always played a central role in equipping learners with the necessary skills to gain employment, these policies demonstrate a clear shift in government thinking to an emphasis on achieving positive employment outcomes at the end of study. We wholeheartedly welcome policies designed to contribute to the government's key aims of fighting poverty, supporting the most vulnerable, and helping people break the cycle of benefit dependency."
Frank McLoughlin CBE, chair of the 157 Group and principal of City and Islington College, said, "Colleges and training providers will have the opportunity to maximise their income and performance in this area by helping mandated learners move into employment, and we welcome the new policies. We must remember, however, that colleges work tirelessly to help learners into the most suitable employment routes and opportunities, whether there is a government incentive in place or not."
The case studies are available to download on the 157 Group website at http://www.157group.co.uk/job-outcomes
About the 157 Group
The 157 Group represents 28 of the most influential colleges in the FE sector. It was formed in 2006 in response to paragraph 157 of Sir Andrew Foster's report on the future of further education colleges, in which he argued that principals of large successful colleges should play a greater role in policymaking.
CONTACT
Gemma Knott 07581 354 750
Email [email protected]
The 157 Group Limited
P O Box 58147
London
SW8 9AF
Website: www.157group.co.uk
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