Highlights of the week ending 26 November
This week saw the DfE announce universities will be required to improve outcomes for disadvantaged children in their local schools and colleges, while also taking steps to widen access and setting targets to support HE students throughout their time at university. Michelle Donelan set out the new plans in a speech, which she said form part of the Government’s ambitions for levelling-up. The OfS announced John Blake as the new director for fair access and participation.
The Education Select Committee has announced an inquiry into the future of post-16 qualifications. This comes as the government plans a significant change to the post-16 landscape, with a focus on A levels and the new T Levels. Meanwhile in the Commons, next week, the Skills and Post-16 Education Bill begins Committee Stage – here the Bill can be amended.
The government has published a slew of education related data, including: Education and training statistics for the UK; Further education and skills; Apprenticeships and traineeships; and Vocational and other qualifications quarterly.
Finally, Labour has announced a council of skills advisers as part a new campaign to ensure young people leave education ready for work and ready for life. They also shared analysis highlighting regional and local inequalities in young people gaining essential qualifications.