Labour have today proposed a series of further
education reforms at the Association of Colleges’ Annual
Conference & Exhibition. In response, Gravatt, Deputy Chief
Executive of the Association of Colleges, said:
“To be successful after Brexit, we need to lead the
way on skills and post-16 education. We welcome Labour’s package
of proposals, which will make a real difference to the education
and skills training of millions of people across the country each
year.
“We particularly welcome their position on English
and maths GCSE retakes. It’s vital that every young person leaves
education with strong foundations in these subjects– they are the
basis for success in work and in life. Colleges have long called
for flexibility in how to support learners to achieve this. A
one-size fits all approach has not worked and does not work.
Colleges know their students and what works best for them. The
Association of Colleges welcomes Labour’s announcement today that
in government, they would offer colleges this
flexibility.
“It is also encouraging to see Labour acknowledge the
breadth of experience that can and should qualify people for a
range of jobs, beyond degree-level qualifications. People often
talk about parity of esteem, moves like this are critical to
making that a reality.”