What we do
Agenda for Change
LSC Agenda for Change is a fundamental programme of reform for further education in response to feedback on barriers in the way of the 14-19 and skills agendas received during the LSC roadshows with college principals in the summer of 2004.
- best meet the workforce skills needs of employers
- build a sector fully committed to quality and the highest standards
- change funding methods to support priorities as simply as possible
- streamline data collection and exchange
- enable the sector to achieve business excellence
- enhance the reputation of the sector.
At the 2004 Agenda for Change regional roadshows, the LSC updated college principals on progress and emerging ideas for reform. Feedback indicated broad support for the reforms.
The Agenda for Change proposals, representing a dynamic programme for transforming the sector, are detailed in a recently published prospectus, which includes a detailed technical annex on data. Further technical papers on funding and capital are available below.
The first funding consultation document Learning and Skills - Agenda for Change: Funding Reform – Technical Proposals was published shortly after the agenda for change prospectus in August 2005. The consultation period closed in November 2005.
There was broad support for the aims of the reforms, although there were widely differing views on the detailed funding proposals. As a result of this, and subsequent trialling, a second technical consultation was undertaken: Learning and Skills - the Agenda for Change Funding Reforms - Second Consultation.
Planning for Success, a document setting out how we planned to work with colleges and training providers to agree new development plans in 2006, was also published. It explained how quality would be placed right at the heart of the planning dialogue, and how informed decisions about the best arrangements for provision at local and regional levels would be taken, based on a thorough analysis of both need and quality. In January 2006, hard copies were sent to all colleges and training providers with scope for development planning in 2006.
We have created an online discussion forum for colleges, other providers, key stakeholders and interested parties to ask questions, post comments and provide feedback on agenda for change.
A frequently asked questions (FAQ) brief supports the forums, providing detail about the background and context of LSC agenda for change and plans for taking it forward.
Useful links:
The Prospectus
Second Funding Consultation Response Form
Skills Strategy
Final Report of the Working Group on 14-19 Reform
