Incentivising even closer working between universities, colleges,
and employers would bring significant benefits to our
economy.
According to a new report – Routes to high-level
skills – published today [Monday] by Universities UK,
policymakers should look to build on existing partnerships to
give more students the skills they and employers need.
A series of case studies in the report show how colleges and
universities are already sharing funding, resources, and staff
expertise.
While universities and further education colleges will continue
to offer distinct courses and skills training, the need for
closer working between them and local employers will become
increasingly important as demand for people of all
ages with higher level skills continues to grow,
particularly at Levels 4 and 5 (foundation degree, higher
national diploma, and higher national
certificate).
Alistair Jarvis, Chief Executive of Universities
UK, said policymakers need to find ways to develop
better local links. He said:
“This report shows that colleges and universities across the
country are sharing expertise and resources to provide courses
that employers want. This is very different to the perception
that they operate in isolation. The debate shouldn’t be about
further versus higher education. Government, funders and
regulators should focus on building strong local links, not
seeing an unreal divide.
“There has been a worrying drop in part-time and mature study
numbers, when our economy needs more of them. We must develop
policies to make part-time study more appealing, upskilling
easier and encourage lifelong learning among our ageing
population. Incentivising even closer working between
universities, colleges and employers can help us achieve these
aims.”
MP,
Minister of State for Universities, Science, Research and
Innovation, said:
“The findings of this report demonstrate the undeniable value of
engaging employers in our education system. Not only is it for
the benefit of students but also the country’s economy.
“I want colleges, universities, business and industry to work
together to ensure our education and training system is giving
young people the skills they need to succeed in whatever career
they choose and delivering the skilled workforce employers
demand.
“Our review of post-18 education and funding is also looking at
how we can ensure the system provides genuine choice and works
better for everyone.”
ENDS
Notes
- The new report
– Routes to high-level skills – and case
studies are attached to this email.
- Higher level
skills, which include qualifications at level 4 and 5 (such as
HNCs, HNDs, and Foundation Degrees), level 6 (bachelor degrees)
and level 7 and 8 (postgraduate and research degrees).
- Around 41% of
courses currently offered by universities have a technical,
professional or vocational focus.
- The total
number of part-time students in higher and further education and
with alternative providers has fallen from 539,645 in 2013/14 to
476,910 in 2016/17.
