COMMENT: AoC report on the impact of competition in post-16 education & training

In response to a new report from the Association of Colleges on ‘The impact of competition in post-16 education & training’, Amanda Melton CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Nelson and Colne College Group, and member of the Independent Commission on the College of the Future, said:

“We have known for too long that the current overly-competitive post-16 education and skills system is not creating the right regulatory and accountability environment for English colleges to thrive and strategically support people, employers and communities. This new report from AoC gives us evidence to show that coordination is the way forward. As we face a mountain to climb in economic recovery from COVID, we have to make sure the system works for those who need it.

“The recommendations on accountabilities in this new report must be considered seriously. The anticipated FE White Paper is our chance to reset the post-16 education and skills system.”