Reform of national education bodies.
The funding system which covers universities, colleges and
apprenticeships, as well as student support, will change in
Scotland.
Under plans published today, responsibility for providing
national training programmes, including apprenticeships, will
move from Skills Development Scotland (SDS) to the Scottish
Funding Council (SFC).
SFC's responsibilities for funding further education student
support will move to the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS),
bringing this together with SAAS's existing responsibilities for
higher education student support.
The plans are being taken forward following extensive
consultation across the sector and legislation will be published
in the coming weeks with the intention of making these changes in
autumn 2026.
Higher and Further Education Minister said:
“We want to ensure that Scotland has a world-class skills system
to meet the demands of the changing economy and that our £3
billon of investment in the tertiary skills system delivers the
greatest impact for learners.
“The need for this change is now clear, with consultation
responses and other evidence supporting reform to arrangements
for post-school funding. These changes will help to reduce
complexities and provide greater clarity around the roles and
responsibilities of each funding body.
“We will now look to press ahead with the next stage in taking
forward these changes, through legislation and other
preparations. We also will work closely with SAAS, SDS and
the SFC to reassure staff and ensure continuity of services.”
Background
Written question and
answer: S6W-33842 | Scottish Parliament Website
The planned changes follow a consultation which took place last
summer and for which a report summarising
responses was published today along with an outline business case.
SDS will continue to play a key role in the skills system,
including its ongoing careers delivery.
