157 Group welcomes the government's focus on high-quality teaching and learning
2nd December 2011
The 157 Group has welcomed the government's focus on high-quality teaching and learning in its response to the 'New challenges, new chances' consultation, in which it outlines its financial support and the programme of work required to take forward the reform of further education and skills for adults aged 19 and over in England.
Lynne Sedgmore CBE, executive director of the 157 Group, said, "We believe that a consistent focus on the quality of teaching and learning is the most important priority for the FE and skills sector, and we are keen to contribute to the work of the proposed commission on adult education and vocational pedagogy, which will be supported by the Institute for Learning and Learning and Skills Improvement Service. We fully support the establishment of a clear, sector-owned policy to support outstanding teaching and learning - including the use of technology - in FE.
"It is absolutely right too that learners should be at the heart of the FE and skills system, with lifelong learning accounts to encourage and empower them to take greater control over their learning, and high-quality information, advice and guidance on skills, careers and financial support.
Marilyn Hawkins, chair of the 157 Group, said "The report pledges more freedom and flexibility for colleges and providers, to allow them to focus on delivering higher-level vocational and technical skills across the country, responding to the needs of learners, employers and local communities. The 157 Group has been working with LSIS and the Association of Colleges to develop programmes for good practice in governance, and freeing colleges from central government control will pave the way for corporations to work with other providers and local stakeholders to take a lead in developing delivery models to meet the needs of their communities.
"Further education provides nearly 40 per cent of new entrants to higher education and is an increasingly significant provider of higher education in its own right. We welcome plans to remove the regulatory barriers that prevent a level playing field, which should give learners more choice and a better student experience, and help improve social mobility.
"Many of the positive proposals outlined in this strategic document reflect ideas that the 157 Group has addressed in recent policy papers, and we are pleased about the extent to which the sector is being consulted in the plans for its development as a crucial contributor to the nation and economy."
