Learners and Participation

Open doors from an empty FE college corridor towards a street on an autumn morning

The Next Step After Post-16 Study Looks Less Secure

DfE's 2024/25 destination figures show fewer young people sustaining a next step after post-16 study. This week's update also explains the Adult Skills Fund over-delivery decision and specialist apprenticeship reviews.

Oct 163 min read

Completed wooden bird box mounted beside tools in an empty FE college workshop

The 13 Skills Learners Can Already Show

Skills England's 13 employability skills give colleges a clearer way to discuss evidence from enrichment, work and caring. This week's post also covers the AoC pay recommendation, SEND plans and NEET taskforces.

Oct 93 min read

A meal tray beside a serving counter in an empty college refectory

Free Meals Have Expanded. The Eligibility Check Hasn't.

Free meals now cover every 16 to 19 learner in a household receiving Universal Credit, but most FE providers still cannot use the electronic checker. This week's update also sharpens qualification and reporting deadlines.

Sep 183 min read

Empty further education college classroom with chairs pulled back from desks.

When Enrolment Masks a Young Person Falling Away

New attendance analysis estimates that almost 42,000 16 and 17-year-olds may be missing more than half their college sessions. The briefing also covers adult English and maths participation, V Level assessment rules and autumn data deadlines.

Sep 113 min read