Table Of Content

FE FE Week Week nnnnnnneeeeeeewwwwwwwsssssss ~~~~~~~ aaaaaaannnnnnnaaaaaaalllllllyyyyyyysssssssiiiiiiisssssss ~~~~~~~ jjjjjjjooooooobbbbbbbsssssss ~~~~~~~ fffffffuuuuuuunnnnnnn Interview with CEO of NAS on his fi rst day See bottom of page 2 Monday 26 March 2012 www.feweek.co.uk Lawrence Vincent FE Week spoke to the principal of Bournemouth and Poole College Page 5 Campus Round-up MidKent College student takes the FE Week’s Nick Reinis speaking to the newly appointed chief executive of NAS at the Apprenticeship Quality Conference last week Picture by Nick Linford plunge to help monkey charity Pages 10 & 11 Stay of execution for ESOL Reed NCFE scheme FE Week Exclusive said: “It seems to be good news, and integrate within their commu- also need to remember that unlike especially for Level 1 and Level 2 nities.We really need a long-term learners who choose to work towards Nick Summers learners who stood to have no ESOL commitment from government. Ad literacy and numeracy qualifi cations, @SummersNicholas qualifi cations next year. The 12.5 per hoc announcements about whether some ESOL learners must achieve an cent cut to Adult Learner Responsive we can expect funding for another ESOL Entry qualifi cation to secure funding remains however, and this year creates huge instability and their legal status in the UK because it English for Speakers of Other will undoubtedly result in a reduc- uncertainty for institutions, tutors is required for settlement (indefi nite Languages (ESOL) qualifi cations tion in provision across the sector. and learners and prevents proper leave to remain) in the UK or British Bournemouth and Poole college will continue to be funded for at least This announcement does nothing to planning taking place.” citizenship.” Easter Egg Hunt launches fi rst employability lab one more year, despite changes to the mitigate that.” Chris Hooper, head of ESOL and The SFA says Ofqual will shortly be Pages 12 & 13 eligibility of literacy qualifi cations. The limited duration of protection community learning at Kirklees writing to awarding organisations to Issue 100 of the Skills Funding for ESOL Basic Skills Certifi cates College, said: “It’s been obvious for a advise them that the operational end Easter Egg hunt Agency (SFA) Update states: “Fol- raises questions about how the quali- while that changes to ESOL qualifi ca- date for current ESOL programmes is lowing consideration of the cur- fi cation will be funded in the future. tions are on the cards. now the end of August 2013. rent English for Speakers of Other Gordon Marsden MP, shadow “At least this means that when Ofqual has since clarifi ed to FE Languages (ESOL) Adult Basic Skills minister for FE, skills and regional those changes happen, they can be Week, however, that the funding exten- Certifi cates, this note confi rms the growth, told FE Week: “While we done over a reasonable timescale, sion is not related to the change in CWaen’ vyeo up lfaincedd t h10em E aasltl?e rT ehgeg esg wgsit hinin t hthisi ss pisrsiuneg oscf eFnEe W doenek’t. count but you should be looking for eggs just like these ones! continued funding for 2012/13 of obviously welcome the continuation rather than last minute.” operational end date. Turn the paper over for the answers! ESOL Adult Basic Skills Certifi cates of ESOL Basic Skills qualifi cation The National Institute of Adult “The fact that the funding has been FE at Entry, Level 1 and Level 2.” funding in 2012/13, real questions Continuing Education (NIACE) say extended is not linked to us changing )!p ,4u ekgoaopL (, 26 1e gegaPaP ,) dsgnga e3 o1 wegt(a P1 e,1g1 aePg a:nPo , 0sg1 gege aePra ,9 e&re 8h Tse -g sarPe w,7s engAaP Week The announcement follows a move remain about arrangements from although they welcome the extended the operational end date for ESOL by the Department for Business, In- 2013/14 onwards that is understand- funding for ESOL Basic Skills Certifi - Skills for Life (we are not involved in novation and Skills (BIS) in February ably still causing concerns across the cates, the government’s year by year funding at all),”an Ofqual spokesper- to cease the funding of a centrally FE sector. approach to provision is a concern. son said. held test bank which supports Adult “I will be pressing Ministers to Joyce Black, head of skills for life at “We have extended the operational Basic Skills (ABS) qualifi cations and explain the implications of the scrap- NIACE, said: “We are pleased that the end date so that the current qualifi ca- See if you can fi nd all the hidden Key Skills Communication, as well as ping of Basic Skills qualifi cations funding will be extended for another tions can continue to be used while Easter eggs through out the paper! Application of Number qualifi cations on ESOL courses and learners for year and in time for providers to we undertake some monitoring Page 16 at Levels 1 and 2. subsequent academic years.” complete their curriculum plans and work.” Jennifer Turner, head of ESOL and Sally Hunt, general secretary of the the associated programme publicity. BIS and the SFA are now in discus- literacy at Greenwich Community University and College Union (UCU), However the year by year funding is sions with Ofqual to decide if the inside... College, as well as a member of the added: “ESOL is crucial in allowing a concern. This extension of fund- “shape and content” of ESOL qualifi - NATECLA Management Council, people to access the labour market ing is good news for learners but we cations will change in the future. 2 FE Week Mo nday 26 Ma rch www.feweek.co.uk Apprenticeship Vacancy FE Week news in brief YPLA becomes EFA system ‘under scrutiny’ The Young People’s Learning Agency (YPLA) FE will close next week, making way for the Nick Reinis the future. Education Funding Agency (EFA). She said: “At the NAS’ request, Skills Funding Peter Lauener, YPLA chief executive and @fenickr Week Agency relationship teams have been in contact who will become chief executive of the EFA, with providers and colleges to offer advice and said: “In many ways our relationship with Sanctions are being considered for providers support to those who are currently not using you will stay the same - we will continue to who fail to advertise vacancies on the Appren- the AV system. calculate allocations and make payments in ticeship Vacancy (AV) system, an e-mail seen by “Apprenticeship providers are contractually the way that we always have done. FE Week reveals. required to use the AV system to advertise their “Our aim is that the transition should be as From August 2010, providers were contractu- own vacancies and those of any subcontractors. smooth as possible, and that for many of you, ally required to use the AV system, managed by Usage of the system is growing strongly and the only change you notice is in our email FE Week is a new newspaper dedicated to the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS), to there are no plans to apply any sanctions for addresses and telephone numbers.” reporting on news, analysis, jobs and fun advertise their own vacancies and also of those those not using the system. in the FE sector. of any subcontractors. “We will consider other measures as neces- Capital strike action The e-mail, sent to providers from representa- sary in future.” So tell us what you think at tives at the Skills Funding Agency, states the AV The AV system, say the NAS, is intended for Colleges in the capital could face disruption www.surveymonkey.com/s/feweek system is “under scrutiny” and that the Agency all apprenticeship providers and employers to after two teaching unions called for strike ac- has been “asked to speak with providers with benefi t from a “free and fl exible recruitment tion over a pension dispute. And tweet us your thoughts @feweek or little or no usage statistics”. website and a wide range of candidates, and The University and College Union (UCU) with the hashtag #feweek It then shows a reminder to the provider of for potential apprentices to access all current has confi rmed members in FE colleges in Lon- their own use of the system. vacancies in one place.” don will join with members of the National Managing Editor: Nick Linford It adds: “NAS is undertaking an analysis and However, providers have given a mixed reac- Union of Teachers (NUT) for a one day strike Deputy Editor: Nick Reinis review of all providers, looking at Apprentice- tion to the system. on Wednesday, March 27. News Reporter: Nick Summers ship vacancy usage against ILR starts, in order Paul Butler, business development director at The strike is in protest against changes to Designer: Daniel Duke to ascertain providers that are in breach of the Making Your Mark (LOTA), said that they solely the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS), which Sales Director: Gemma Ryder Skills Funding Agency contract. use the AV system, with around 70 current the unions believe will see greater contribu- Senior Sales: James Francis “Providers are also responsible for ensur- vacancies listed. tions from pension scheme members, in Operations: Shane Mann ing their subcontractor’s vacancies are posted He said: “We don’t have a problem using it. exchange for reduced benefi ts. Financials: Nahed Chowdhury on AV. Although this is yet not determined, We found the site to be a good marketing tool. Analyst: Tashanna Egbochue NAS are considering a range of sanctions that Going through agencies and local papers can Apprentice wage up Features: Janet Murray (freelance) might be used where providers are in breach of cost a lot of money.” Recruitment: Chardelle Mason contract.” However, Mr Butler is unsure of the use of The government has increased the National Contributors: Ian Pryce Possible sanctions, according to the e-mail, in- the site by other providers in Essex as around Minimum Wage (NMW) rate for apprentices Robin Landman clude lack of growth to contract for adult skills “one-third” of vacancies for the county are for to £2.65. David Hughes and apprenticeship contracts. Marking Your Mark. It comes following recommendations by the FE Week mini-mascot They also include no employer leads being A staff member at a different provider, who independent Low Pay Commission’s (LPC) passed to providers from NAS, providers not be- wished to remain anonymous, said: “I have had recommendations and will come into effect on ing able to participate in marketing or publicity comments from employers that it is not detailed October 1. However, the NMW rates for 16-17 For an annual subscription to FE Week for opportunities, and stopping ‘starts’ payments enough. year-olds and for 18-20-year-olds will remain just £75 visit www.feweek.co.uk and click if a vacancy was not advertised through the AV “It is a good tool, because it attracts candi- the same. on ‘subscribe’ at the top of the page. system. dates who are specifi cally looking for an appren- Business secretary Vince Cable said: “I If you are interested in placing a product However, Sarah Benioff, director of quality ticeship, but because it is an online system they believe the recommendations...strike the right or job advert in a future edition please click at the NAS, denied that any current plans are do not seem to know how to sell themselves as balance between pay and jobs, and have there- on the ‘advertise’ link at the top of the page in place for sanctions - but did not rule it out for well via this method.” fore accepted all the rate recommendations.” on www.feweek.co.uk or contact: E: [email protected] A Way forward for Apprenticeship durations T: 020 8123 4891 M: 0783 7769 411 Nick Reinis He said: “What we’re having to balance is that the Skills Funding Agency is decided. FE Week FE where a 16-18 may have little work experience, Mr Way said: “I’m delighted it’s not going to Week @fenickr nnnnnnneeeeeeewwwwwwwsssssss ~~~~~~~ aaaaaaannnnnnnaaaaaaalllllllyyyyyyysssssssiiiiiiisssssss ~~~~~~~ jjjjjjjooooooobbbbbbbsssssss ~~~~~~~ fffffffuuuuuuunnnnnnn when you get to 19 and above, many of the be just a few weeks and months. I’m certainly Exclusive interview with CEO of NAS on his fi rst day Monwdwayw 2.f6e Mweaerkc.hc o2.0u1k2 people taking apprenticeships have got some looking at it as a role that will go into the begin- Lawrence Vincent Recommendations on plans to introduce a mini- learning which needs to be accredited. ning of next year. mum duration for 19+ apprenticeships have “So how would you design an apprenticeship “It’s a long enough period to get stuck into it C BFoEua Wrmneeemkp sopuuothkse a t noRd T Pohoeou Pler nCinodclilpe-Pgauael gopef 5 been passed by the National Apprenticeship programme if you had a new learner? It’s very and take it into the next phase of apprentice- Service (NAS) to the skills minister. clear to me that that would take a fair amount ships.” SFE Weetk’s Naick Reyinis spe akoing to tfhe new lye appoinxted cheief execcutiveu of NASt at thie Apoprentinceship Q uaflityo Conferrence l astE week S PictuOre by NicLk Linford MpRluiednKgeeedn tto C NhoelllCpe gmFeo snEtukde Pyesan cctgh ehtaasrk ei1et0ysm t&hee 1 1 intTehriem n ecwhise wf eaxse rceuvteiavlee odf b Ny ADSav, iind aWna ey,x nclouws ive of “tAimnde. what’s a fair amount of time? 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1 163uncoCWutanent’ ) vy!bp e,o4uu uepktgo lyaofapiLonc (, T2ued6 1ue d sgetr gahhn1Pa0oeP ,t) mu dshEgnled gaaa e 3sp lbo1tl wa?eeeg tpr (Tal Pe1oeh er,og1eg 1 oakg ePegvis nag:en Pgwogr , 0 ssiffg1to ogehingerri a ne tePtr ha hg,t9 eehi&grs ei a8 sshs Tn spjie uss-g rsswsairuPntee weg,7lris kesnosgA!ecfa PetFhnEee sW deFWoe oeneEnek’kte. s! inoafonfnerfitMwn e cpor erervur orW,in slefieoc aw.lenyl ,sdaw p tlii hrnrteehe vJ a viaFsoonoEuiund sWas lly reieyn feNtk tMbAh oyaSan tSr’ hchicmhhies ioa wefinf fotr esWuortpl addtehu arbrygaeeht ieiln,ne yw aghev hiaisonr sg ptehhxlaoepH“vysYeieeenro raigpusel e tsnrsohoeacpa aeyaltdc ed ieh tdawx’ seanph d bdepo:e r ot “taihiwYernenoeetruc eevwe n emm ha roeyicangrc yeheer x b ettap dhesne iaesdtryyoe if mdetmohn,u ebaacr yuvet yd awtb e.lieeuat ’revhss eain.nr”voy et peionqnrge““u e nITapm ttoleih orpchiipelnioospgkdyhoh .eii rlTprtit’ gsushoh nwaeatrnni ntetd iwee ea rxiosrssc. eshoi utfliiope ntts hpsg a o ioplrsofeoe trtu;s iho nowinddnie gtad hisnis sgtd atho hbaeiei n clU wightK ayooCl rnalkeE.nn Sdg, - at the head of the organisation. an apprenticeship.” so it’s very interesting to see what innovations Although he declined to say what the Service However, Mr Way said a public consultation come up from there and I’m really keen that the Learning & Skills Events, Consultancy and Training Ltd suggested to John Hayes MP in their recom- was not needed at this time, instead suggesting standard of the apprenticeship offer doesn’t get mendation, Mr Way gave an insight into the it would be better to “give the clarity and then left behind. 161-165 Greenwich High Road London SE10 8JA diffi culties surrounding a set timeframe for talk about what the judgement looks like” in the “Also, the apprenticeships hubs in the core T: 020 8123 4778 apprenticeships for people who are aged over 19. future. cities to get lots of people engaging in appren- E: [email protected] From August, the minimum duration for ap- Mr Way also revealed that he expects to be in ticeships there and generating lots of new prentices aged 16-18 is 12 months. the role for around a year while the future of ideas,” he said. www.feweek.co.uk M onda y 26 M arch FE Week 3 Lessons to be learned following SFA data ‘episode’ Nick Reinis read: “The revisions related to the data from the FE Choices website it appeared that a change “The investigation process is ongoing and a survey of learners. had occurred on January 30 as this was the date full report will be published in due course.” @fenickr “The Learner Satisfaction national, provider stamp on the fi le which contained the changed The Agency also said it is identifying lessons and organisation type aggregate scores were data. to learn from the episode. An investigation into changes on FE Choices not affected, but supporting scores on the sub- “The investigation has shown that the “The Skills Funding Agency and the Data has found more than 2,500 data records were scales were affected for some organisation types changed fi le was uploaded to the FE Choices Service continue to abide by the Code of Prac- adjusted without public knowledge. and providers.” website on 6 February. tice for Offi cial Statistics and have taken swift The Data Service, which is part of the Skills The data changes, according to the Service, “All data on the website from February 7 is action to conduct a thorough investigation. Funding Agency, has revealed that 2,639 changes included comparative data at organisational accurate and correct.” “The Agency and the Service are identifying were made to “unique values” in the Learner type and national level, which was changed to The changes, according to the Service, lessons to learn and steps to take to ensure that Satisfaction indicator of the performance com- exclude zeros from the calculations. This caused represent 0.7 per cent of the 371,987 total unique there is no recurrence by reinforcing practice, parison site after it went live on January 26. a change in the minimum value and medians. values. However, a closer look shows that 205 quality management and testing procedures,” As revealed by FE Week last month, FE This change was to background data and no unique values for “Organisation Type detailed the statement said. Choices, formerly known as the Framework for headline score was affected, say the Service. scores” were changed - some 12.7 per cent of As well as the investigation by the Agency, the Excellence, is under scrutiny for unannounced Changes were also made to correct errors the 1,620 total values. Meanwhile, 30 of the 405 Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, post-publication alterations. whereby the code for question 7 was wrongly unique values for “National detailed scores” under a request by the FE and skills minister, Despite the changes, made to comparable referring to question 6 data (for the 19+, all were changed, equating to 7.4 per cent. John Hayes MP, and the UK Statistics Authority data fi elds, neither the Agency nor the Service levels category) and the code for comparative The Skills Funding Agency said they have have launched their own inquiries. made a public announcement, which could data for question 2 was referring to data from “a duty to let users know as soon as possible” As well as the Learner Satisfaction changes, leave them in breach of the Code of Practice for question 1. about what changes were made. data has been revised for one provider’s Em- Offi cial Statistics by the UK Statistics Authority. The Agency initially said the post-publication A statement released by the Agency said: ployer Satisfaction indicator. The Code requires that prompt public an- changes were made on January 30, but they now “The Skills Funding Agency has published The Service said: “The challenge is isolated nouncements are made on errors which are say the adjustments took place on February 6. information on what changes were made to the to one provider and does not raise concern discovered in statistical reports. An Agency spokesperson said: “At the time data on FE Choices, in compliance with statisti- on other providers data or other performance A statement, posted on the Service’s website, of the initial message being uploaded onto the cal protocols. indicators.” Calls for Ofsted to grade IAG Nick Reinis not a school versus college issue. “This is about young people being able to @fenickr make the right choices at the right time based on the best information. FE provider membership bodies are calling on “This would go a long way to help the Ofsted to take a greater look at the information, economy, reduce unemployment, and allow advice and guidance given out at schools. young people to fi nd the career paths that are The Association of Colleges (AoC) believes best suited to them.” NEWLY the education regulator should grade the advice AELP believes that the new obligations will handed out to school students, while Associa- help to raise awareness of apprenticeships FUNDED tion of Employment and Learning Provid- among young people at a time when the govern- ers (AELP) has urged Ofsted to make it a top ment is looking to increase the take-up of the framework priority. Since the announcement programme under the Youth Contract. QUALIFICATION of changes to the careers system, fears have Graham Hoyle, AELP’s chief executive, said: been raised that students in schools will be “The government’s announcement is excellent “signposted” to an online resource, such as the news for young people who need advice in the government’s own National Careers Service current economic climate that will make a real NCFE L3 Certificate in End of Life Care (NCS) website, which launches next month. difference to their prospects rather than just However, the government has confi rmed that ‘park’ them in the system. from September, schools in England will be “Schools will need to be made aware of their We would like to make you aware that the SFA have agreed to required by law to access independent careers statutory obligations and as MPs and peers temporarily fund this extremely important qualification advice from an external provider, in addition to from all parties have repeatedly made clear in any service a school itself provides. Parliamentary debates on the matter, they will Learning aim ref: 50101171 Young people who want face-to-face advice need to comply. 141 GLH from an outside specialist careers service will “In our view, this requires inspectors from Indicative course duration: 16 weeks be entitled to receive this form of support to Ofsted to check on school visits that necessary help them make an informed choice. arrangements are in place for students to access Joy Mercer, director of policy at the Asso- impartial advice from an external service. We Quote ‘FE Week’ to purchase these NCFE-endorsed student learning ciation of Colleges (AoC), was encouraged by hope that Ofsted will regard this as a priority materials at a special price of £55 per pack for FE Week readers comments of Ofsted Chief Inspector Michael under its new framework.” (publish price £68 per pack) on orders received before 31 May Wilshaw, who told the Education Select Commit- A spokesperson for Ofsted said they will con- tee in February that inspectors would comment tinue to look at effectiveness of the advice and What’s more, for customers using our resources, we will train your on the effectiveness of careers guidance in their guidance given at school. staff to deliver this qualification free of charge. reports. However, the spokesperson also said Ofsted She said: “Young people’s access to appropri- “does not regulate how schools provide guid- ate information, advice and guidance is es- ance to pupils” and that the accountability for Need a partner to deliver this programme on your behalf? We’d be sential for economic improvement and reducing meeting the school’s statutory responsibilities delighted to talk to you about using our own team of experienced youth unemployment. lies with the governing body of the school. assessors and verifiers to help meet the considerable demand for “However, as well as commentary, we would “Ofsted believes high quality independent this and other fundable qualifications. like to see this provision graded - because it is information, advice and guidance in schools only then that schools will give the emphasis to is crucial and evaluates the quality of it when For more information, call us on 01904 550110 or email all the opportunities available for young people. conducting their inspections. [email protected] “Without grading, parents may fi nd a com- “It does provide information and advice for ment in the inspection report diffi cult to locate.” schools and policy makers in the form of survey www.tribalgroup.com She added: “It is important to note that this is reports,” said the spokesperson. 4 FE Week Mo nday 26 Ma rch www.feweek.co.uk FE Week opinion Subway apprenticeships give food for thought Subway has started offering able to ‘follow the rules to deliver customer naturally picked up by the employee in the fi rst The rate is signifi cantly lower than the intermediate apprenticeship places service’. few weeks. minimum wage for adults, which increased across a small number of stores in Optional units of the apprenticeship It’s telling when the unit guide on the by 11p to £6.19 an hour last week, as well as areas such as Tyne and Wear, Devon and qualifi cation include maintaining a ‘positive First4Skills website says the qualifi cation is the rate for 16-17 year-olds and 18-20 year-olds, Dorset. Nick Summers, reporter at FE and customer-friendly attitude’, dealing with most suitable for customer advisers, contact which stayed at £3.68 and £4.98 respectively. Week and a former employee of Subway, customers face-to-face and resolving customer centre operators and hotel receptionists. My fear is that individual Subway stores are gives his view on the new scheme. service problems. The elaborately coined ‘sandwich artist’ job being sold the apprenticeship programme as a These are all elements of basic training title used by Subway doesn’t even come close to vehicle to employing a new member of staff on which will occur on the job anyway. I can say making the list. a fraction of the usual salary. Last week the National Apprenticeship Service this with absolute confi dence because I worked When questioned about the training When questioned, a Subway spokesperson (NAS) were tweeting about a number of for the company almost every weekend during delivered at Subway, a spokesperson for told FE Week: “Subway stores do not operate a Subway stores offering prospective employees my studies in further education. First4Skills told FE Week: “It is our policy not nationally accredited apprenticeship scheme a level 2 qualifi cation in customer service During my employment at Subway I learned to disclose information about any of our clients however individual stores or franchises may through various training providers including a lot about being polite and professional without their explicit agreement and therefore have pursued their own scheme; any comment Lifeskills Centres Ltd and Gateshead Mbc in front of customers, handling customer we do not enter into discussions with any third is entirely a matter for them.” Training Section. complaints and working as part of a team. party as a result.” There is some hope, however. One of the The majority of the 18 openings currently Direction from senior staff was minimal, The vacancy specifi cation on the National vacancies advertised on the NAS website is being advertised on the (NAS) vacancy website instead focusing on the technical skills needed Apprenticeship Service (NAS) website says an NVQ Level 2 in food and beverage counter are being delivered by First4Skills, “one of the to operate the various machinery both out front the apprentice will be paid £104 for working 40 service, which has been “tailored to Subway” UK’s biggest training providers.” and in the preparation/stock area. hours each week. by the training provider Lifetime Health & The mandatory units of their level 2 Very few of the unit headings in the level The pay is in accordance with what was Fitness Ltd. certifi cate, which will be delivered over a 12 2 certifi cate delivered by First4Skills require the national minimum wage for apprentices The apprenticeship wage is still £2.60 an month period, are to be able to communicate any technical ability whatsoever, and even less at £2.60 per hour, although the government hour, but it at least offers training somewhat using ‘customer service language’ and to be require a level of customer service which isn’t announced an increase to £2.65 last week. relevant to the profession. Lettuce eat for free says AoC e-petition Nick Reinis The AoC also found that there are three success. @fenickr times as many students at colleges eligible for In just two weeks, an e-petition has a free meal than at maintained school sixth attracted more than 1,200 signatures, while Equality between FE and schools has been a forms, while colleges educate nearly double the AoC’s special twitter account (@AoC_ prominent aspect of the sector for many years the number of 16-18 year olds compared to Campaigns) is gathering pace. - and a new battlefi eld has been drawn. maintained school sixth forms. The AoC also already has the support of No Free Lunch? is a campaign being Pirandeep Dhillon, public affairs offi cer its member colleges, with 79 per cent who launched by the Association of Colleges (AoC) at the AoC, said: “The aim of the campaign be the cost of extending the provision to FE responded to a survey in September agreeing to address one of the sector’s key issues. is for government to make a commitment to colleges and sixth forms. that free meals in colleges for 16-18 year olds As it stands, the 16-18-year-olds from a extend the provision for free meals to college Although it does not include the would encourage participation. disadvantaged background who study in students.” administration and capital costs, the AoC Over the coming weeks, the Association school sixth forms receive free meals at She went on to add: “One of the reasons is believe the investment needed to fund the will be putting together case studies of lunchtimes - but if they were to choose to the fundamental inequality of the current provision is in the region of £38 million - a hard up students who could benefi t from study at a FE college or a sixth form college, system. fi gure described as a “relatively small sum” free meals, while campaigners will also be this benefi t would not be available. “There are more students that are from a by Mrs Dhillon. urged to lobby their local MPs to join in the This, according to the AoC, who say disadvantaged background who are learning However, the AoC believe that by extending campaign. eligibility for free meals should be based on in colleges then in a school sixth form; we the right to free meals for college students Mrs Dhillon also added: “We’ll also look need, not on where you choose to study, is estimate that there are 103,000 students who aged 16-18 it would encourage participation of at demographic trends; are there particular “clearly unfair” and must change. are currently missing out on free meals. this age group in education and training. regions which are more affected than others?” In putting together their campaign, the AoC “Because of the loss of the EMA, rising cost This is key, Mrs Dhillon adds, as the Follow the campaign by via the twitter feed has found that 103,000 students are missing of travel and rising cost of food, students are government seeks 100 per cent participation. @AoC_Campaigns or by using #nofreelunch out on a free lunch each year - equating to 20 being hit harder.” Although the campaign is currently in its To sign the petition, visit http://epetitions. million lunches a year. An important aspect of the campaign will infancy, it has already achieved some initial direct.gov.uk/petitions/31069 www.feweek.co.uk M onda y 26 M arch FE Week 5 FE Week profile Lawrence Vincent ~ his story However, it was then that the opportunity Nick Reinis came up to work in juvenile correction @fenickr systems in Boston, Massachusetts. Although he knew it would be a challenge, he insists - as a man in his late 20s - it was The Principal of something that he had to do. “I was teaching English to kids who were Bournemouth and Poole mostly Hispanic. We had a lot of challenges. When people say the kids are difficult here, the College talks to FE Week benchmark I had was completely different,” he says. “Id idn’t think I’d ever be a principal,” Despite the many challenges, it was a part says Lawrence Vincent, who has been of his life which he talks about with great principal of Bournemouth and Poole College affection and thoughtful reflection. for the past four years, before adding: “I wasn’t He says: “America seemed like ‘the promised a career academic.” land’ so if you had the opportunity to go there, Although the sentiment is often banded you would take it. around, with Vincent, a man who openly “Living there in your late 20s is a fantastic admits that he is happier away from of the experience. It felt different to here. It felt a bit spotlight, you get the impression he really more exciting and rewarding.” means it. However, by the late 90s, he moved back to But here we are, in the 51-year-old’s England after taking a job teaching at South impeccably tidy - but modest - office where we Thames College. find each other discussing his life’s work. “I didn’t find it easy to adapt in America; I So how did it happen? How does a man missed London. I find London is full of good who has the impressive and intriguing ideas for colleges,” he says. CV which includes a fleeting career in the As well as those ideas, Vincent brought back music industry and work to help rehabilitate across the pond his own new ideas for how he offenders in the USA become a principal? could develop the sector. It began for Vincent in Leeds, a city he is “When I was in America, I was attached to proud to say he is “born and bred” in, but one a community college, so I brought back a real which he was keen to leave - and move away belief that colleges in the UK should become from quickly. “It was a hard city. I left Leeds as more involved in local communities and I’ve soon as I could,” he says. held that ever since. Vincent attended Sherburne High School, “I fell in love with the college sector. They but “didn’t enjoy” his time there, insisting that are fantastic, vibrant, interesting places,” he Picture by Nick Reinis he “did okay and moved on” after his exams. says. Despite disliking growing up in the city, Vincent still today holds a high affection for studying business management at nearby sense” of them which will be the ones to his beloved Leeds United. “We take public Bournemouth University, while his son Kit is “flourish” with them. Heading away from the city in the late 1970s, studying music at his father’s college, before However, he does not think deregulation Vincent moved down to London where he money and have heading off to Sussex University next year, will lead to privatisation of colleges - as has studied humanities at Greenwich University. and his youngest daughter Mya is working been suggested in some quarters. “We need “I enjoyed London a lot,” he says, adding: “I fantastic resources hard towards her GCSEs next month. businesses to work with us, not control us,” was pleased to be away from The North and Like-father-like-son, Kit is also in an up-and- he says. so we should be doing something different.” coming band - he is the drummer for Kinnie Vincent is also delighted that his college And it was while living in the capital that the Explorer (Keen musician and FE Week is the first to sign up to the NCFE and Reed more generous with Vincent was able to develop one of his main head designer Dan Duke has played on the employability partnership. passions in life; music. same bill as Kit’s band and gives them a top “There’s a theme I’m developing here and our time, space and Working at record store, HMV, he immersed report). Vincent urges me to check them out as that’s resilience. himself in the New Wave movement and soon as I can when I get home. “Colleges will have to be more resilient and expertise” started promoting and managing young bands. But how does he balance the rigour of being we have to train students to become more Although none went on to become huge a principal, with seeing his family, as well as resilient,” he adds. stars, it was a time of his life that you sense he However, ambition soon took over from the finding time for his hobbies? But, what about the future for colleges? thoroughly enjoyed. love affair with London in his heart when “The job of a principal is demanding and Although he praises existing community “It was interesting. I enjoy going to see the opportunity came up to become the new all engulfing, so you have to create an offer work, including the ideas within the report bands play live. It’s a big part of my life,” he head of department for social and community for this, and your time with your family, but released in November by Baroness Sharp, adds with a smile. studies at Bournemouth and Poole College. you have to work at it,” he says, particularly the chair of the Independent Commission However, it was then that Vincent’s move He would then swiftly become the college’s when “there’s never been a harder time to run on Colleges in their Communities, alongside into education began. vice-principal and then - four years ago - he a college”. NIACE and the 157 Group, Vincent says: “I While working at a community radio station was named its principal. He adds: “Expectations are increasing and think that we can go further. he became involved in “social issues and “I was always feeling I could do the job of changing. “We take public money and have fantastic social problems” and shortly after he started my line manager,” he says, before adding: “The way in which we have to be measured resources so we should be more generous with as a youth worker in Thamesmead - an area “But this is enough for me; I have no great is changing and it will have a significant our time, space and expertise. which at the time suffered heavily in the ambitions after this.” impact on us.” “We are developing enrolment, so local recession. Vincent then jokes about his desire to own a He adds: “It’s a challenge to implement the people use the facilities but don’t enrol on “Through that, I started to get philosophical jazz club, but admits it is more of a pipedream recommendations of the Wolf Report, but I’m courses. at people who weren’t achieving, rather then a realistic option. a devotee of Wolf.” “So that’s like using our libraries and IT. than at those who were, and that defined my And it is then that we move onto discussing And what about the new college freedoms We’ve even had elderly people who come in for interest in teaching and in education,” he his three children. handed down from government? Vincent hot meals. People say it’s not easy, but it is.” explains. He tells me that eldest daughter Jordan is believes that it is the colleges who can “make 6 FE Week Mo nday 26 Ma rch www.feweek.co.uk FE Week Experts Staff pay should be left Government must do more to the college to decide to tackle diversity problems their own pay levels? If we have to compete Recent evidence that unemployment rates with private providers not constrained in this among black 16 to 24-year-old men avail- way isn’t that unfair on good schools, colleges able for work have risen to 56 per cent - double and hospitals who might lose out as a result what it was three years ago - is appalling news. and end up employing fewer people? But even worse is the growing evidence that the government is falling short in its efforts The economic arguments are usually couched to tackle the root causes and direct attention in terms of the disparity to local market where it is due. rates. For example, if an employer is constrained by national rates it can live within a Everything is now focused on two big ideas - given grant only by employing fewer people Apprenticeships and the Work Programme. We or a less high-powered structure. Pay freedom in the Network for Black Professionals invested might enable a more effective mix. much time, resources and energy in helping government shape the two-year Diversity in Similarly, it is economically rational for the Apprenticeship pilot programme that ends this brightest people in a low pay area to opt for July. But after a steady rise in BME participa- their local public sector or move south to tion in such programmes, it now appears to be the private sector, in both cases diminishing faltering. the local private sector by starving it of that talent. Government plans to cut apprenticeship funding rates by two per cent next year for 16 to 18-year-olds, while leaving the adult apprentice- “The freedom to ship funding rates unchanged, will only make it First, it is clear by the government’s own admis- harder to tackle diversity problems. sion that the big push on apprenticeships in- determine our own cluded too many questionable training schemes pay and conditions is When the disastrous ONS unemployment under this label. I am a big fan of the AoC and have always statistics were announced, officials at the De- seen as a key source of believed a mature sector must have a pan- partment for Work and Pensions were quick to Second, as the IPPR report, Rethinking Appren- college body to argue on its behalf. However, competitive advantage” defend their performance. Every effort was be- ticeships, and FE Week’s detailed analyses have I have always opposed the idea that such a ing made to give all young people the right skills shown, resources were targeted at the wrong body should even recommend, let alone tell and experience to match them to vacancies, a age group, with investment in training for me, how much I should pay my staff. DWP spokesperson insisted. adults already in work, at the expense of young On the other hand if it led to lower public sec- people in desperate need. Independence is a cornerstone of college suc- tor incomes in depressed areas it could make “This includes the Work Programme, which cess, independence means being accountable things worse by reducing consumption. assesses people as individuals to discover what And, as the IPPR report shows, while BME com- for how you treat your staff. barriers are preventing them from getting a job munities account for 14 per cent of the 18-24 age For fourteen years now, Bedford College and will then work with them overcome these group in the overall population, they account has operated pay awards based on manager problems. We are also spending £1bn over the for less than eight per cent of apprenticeship “In a typical year, assessment (based broadly, but not slavishly, next three years to help young jobseekers by places. two per cent of staff on personal objectives). Staff are graded 1-4, creating around half a million opportunities like Ofsted descriptors, and pay awards are through work experience and apprenticeships.” Third, it is still not clear what apprenticeships might be graded 4 and different for each grade. are for - are they to raise skills levels or solve Is the programme really focused on the special- the unemployment problem? Hopefully both receive no pay award” In a typical year, two per cent of staff might ist support learners from BME backgrounds but, whichever, we know that young people from be graded 4 and receive no pay award. For need to address their specific issues and to move BME backgrounds are being given particularly staff overall though our average pay award employment? short measures. Even the hint that the Chancellor might has exceeded the AoC recommendation every dismantle national pay rates has drawn both year, and we believe in many years has been The lack of referrals to the NBP for exactly We in the NBP will continue to support what- outrage and triumphal applause depending the highest in the sector. this type of support would suggest not. Nor are ever initiatives are necessary to address diver- on your point of view. Both are inappropri- adequate steps being taken to deal with factors sity. Our proven track record over the decade in ate. Our pay scales exceed the equivalent school that deter young BME adults from apprentice- tackling BME under-representation in college teaching scales, and overall staff numbers ships. leadership is now reaching out to all education National versus local pay setting is a complex have risen from 250 to 750 over that period. sectors and the wider public services. question and worthy of serious debate, main- There are many questions. For example, how ly because we know it will change behaviours The freedom to determine our own pay and many of the opportunities cited by DWP will We have secured contracts to reduce re-offend- in ways that are hard to predict. conditions is seen as a key source of competi- those from a BME background be able to take- ing through mentoring for offenders, assisting tive advantage. If we were faced with a choice up? Was the increased intake in BME appren- ex-offenders back into education and training, There are some philosophical arguments put to move back to national pay setting our ticeships due to the focus from the Diversity and the partnership’s impact on the Diversity in against national pay. Shouldn’t the taxpayer Corporation would therefore vote against. pilots or what? And when they end in July, will Apprenticeships programme was acknowledged expect the state to spend the minimum it can the early increases we saw continue? by politicians in all parties. to get a job done? It is understandable that many public sector bodies feel uneasy or hostile to a change, but We will have to wait until the summer for But we need coherent apprenticeship and em- If so, why should the taxpayer pay over the lo- let’s at least have a full and open debate that detailed analysis and figures on the impact of ployment policies built in sustained investment cal market rate? If you believe in decentrali- acknowledges the benefits and drawbacks of the Diversity in Apprenticeship pilots. But it is not false economies, targeted at the most vulner- sation shouldn’t that include pay autonomy? such a change. already telling that the record black unemploy- able groups. ment rates are among precisely that group at If you want us to look more like John Lewis Ian Pryce, principal whom the pilot initiative was aimed. What does Robin Landman OBE, chief executive of the surely that means organisations agreeing of Bedford College this say about the apprenticeships? Network for Black Professionals www.feweek.co.uk M onda y 26 M arch FE Week 7 FE Week Experts On the move again to promote adult literacy? It is also underpins the thinking behind people who are already anxious enough. So or the wherewithal to access the learning many other developments, including the how do you reach people without scaring which could make such a difference to their launch of the National Careers Service, them? You don’t teach kids to read by lives. This partnership with the BBC and FE Loans, freedoms and fl exibilities for frightening them. other work such as Adult Learners’ Week colleges and providers and the cutting of red do make an impact, providing the impetus tape. This Government has set out its stall: The media has a signifi cant role to play here. for some people to go to the local college, it wants empowered learners to drive the adult learning centre or library. Others will learning and skills which get delivered. On the Move, a television show made by call the helpline which directs them to Next the BBC in 1976, which I watched as a (very Step. Will they get the advice and support In a country (and a world) where power, young) schoolboy, was aimed at adults with they need to progress? Will there be learning resources and outcomes are all very unequal, literacy problems. Written by Barry Took and opportunities to meet their needs? Will the we need to be wary that this vision for staring Bob Hoskins (before he was famous) system meet their demands? Is the system empowered learners does not simply result in as a removal man, it had a massive impact, fully prepared for empowered learners? those with the loudest voice scooping up the resulting in a surge in demand for adult entire adult learning budget. It is not enough education. I sincerely hope that the system is ready for learning to be funded which meets the for all learners and there is lots of evidence needs of those already engaged and ignores NIACE was involved then and has been that people working in adult and further How do we listen to people who have quiet those who could and need to benefi t. again this last six months advising the BBC education want to deliver in ways which voices? as it launches a new series of BBC Daytime address equality issues. There are lots of scary statistics around; dramas ‘Secrets and Words’ exploring adult As public funding of adult skills gets tighter for instance, our Inquiry last year cited the literacy. But reaching out, designing learning which and tighter there is a strong argument Survey which found that 5.2 million adults meets diverse needs and doing the extra for making sure it gets spent both on the of working age lack the literacy skills to The fi ve dramas start on Monday (26th work to support success is a tough call when highest priorities and with positive impact. enable them to function effectively in modern March), running every day next week at 2.15 resources are getting tighter. We all need to Rather than dictating what those priorities society (Work, Society and Lifelong Literacy, – 3.00pm on BBC1. To back this up, we have remain vigilant to make sure that even those should be, the current policy is to make the NIACE Inquiry Report, 2011). Only last week also been supporting a complete revamp of people with the least powerful voices are ‘system’ respond to learner and employer the BMJ published research that showed that materials and resources on the Skillswise listened to and their needs met. That would demands. This is the driver for the UKCES poor literacy skills can mean you won’t live website to help teachers. be real equality and empowerment. employer ownership pilots which provide an as long as you should. opportunity for employers to have their needs This is important work, reaching people who David Hughes, chief executive of the met in the ways that help support them best. Headlines like these can put more fear into may not have the confi dence, the information National Institute of Adult Continuing Education Cambridge T E C CAMBRIDGE TECs ARE HERE • Business • IT • Health and Social Care Come to one of our FREE events to fi nd out more. To book visit www.ocreventbooker.org.uk and enter code OCTC1 8 FE Week Mon day 2 6th M arch www.feweek.co.uk FE Week gets technical The Apprenticeship Grant for Employers (AGE) of 16- to 24-year-olds goes live on the 1st April 2012. The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) has said in the Skills Funding Agency Update 100: “We are pleased to confi rm the Claims and Payment arrangements for AGE 16 to 24. The AGE 16 to 24 Provider Claims and Data Submission Guidance document and example AGE 16 to 24 Employer Agreement Form will both be sent to providers electronically alongside the contract variation to include an AGE 16 to 24 Appendix to your main Skills Funding Agency contract.” For further information or related queries, please refer to the AGE 16 to 24 section of the Apprenticeships website http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/Partners/Policy/ AGE-1624.aspx or your usual Agency contact. 1 2 3 4 5 6 www.feweek.co.uk Mo nday 26th M arch FE Week 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 10 FE Week Monday 26 March 2012 www.feweek.co.uk FE Week campus round-up Duke of York marches up to Newcastle- under-Lyme College for right royal visit Professional race teams visit Dearne Valley College to launch motorsports programme Dearne Valley College (DVC) is launching based college is offering the new exciting a new motorsports programme. programme that will look at the skills needed The launch event, which took place to compete in the world of motorsport. Newcastle-under-Lyme College (NULC) could help inspire them to “be more than on Thursday, welcomed a number of Jon Barker, DVC programme area manager was given the Royal seal of approval you think you can be”. The Duke of York professional race teams and associations for engineering and technology, said: “This when His Royal Highness the Duke of York added: “I can assure all of you young people showcasing their vehicles such as; ‘Team exciting new programme is ideal for any paid a visit. that you have a great deal more potential Honeywell’ UK Uniroyal Fun Cup Winners, young person wanting to pursue a career in The Duke visited to help promote the work than you probably realise or understand. Max Lees Locost Championship Driver, the motor industry. of colleges in providing apprenticeships, “Over the last 10 years I’ve been doing a the Motor Sport Association, Sheffield and “The practical skills gained will be put to work-based learning and business skills huge amount for British business and I will Hallamshire Motor Club and Dukeries Rally. good use with the sprint car project which is development. continue to do so, because I believe in it, New for September 2012, the Wath- a first for the college.” After meeting local dignitaries, His Royal and I also believe you young people are the Highness was given a tour of the college future of it.” Blackburn College by NULC principal and chief executive Mrs Dobson said: “I’m very pleased that Karen Dobson, accompanied by the Lord- the Duke’s visit has shone a spotlight on the hosts major collision Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Sir James work that we are not necessarily well known Hawley. for, in terms of our work for employers with He told students he hoped the college apprenticeships and skills training.” Redbridge College student scores award Praise for Havering College designers Up-and-coming artists from Havering College of Further and Higher Education received the ultimate accolade from one of the top interior designers in the world. Students at a Blackburn College were given Martyn Lawrence-Bullard, a multiple award the opportunity to put the theory into winning designer with A-list celebrity clients, practice during a mock-up of a major traffic has praised the talents of four students on the collision. BA Fine Arts degree course. Los Angeles-based FMG Support, the UK’s leading vehicle Bullard visited the college in Hornchurch, recovery resource, and the Highways Agency, Essex, as part of a filming project. hosted a Major Incident Day to provide the He toured the college’s £6 million centre As tudent who volunteered to coach “I realised I was enjoying coaching so decided emergency services with a live practice of their dedicated to the study of the creative arts and Redbridge College’s basketball team to stay on as coach rather than play.” emergency plans. looked at the work of students on the BA Fine alongside his full-time studies has been As the season has continued, Chinua has More than 40 Blackburn College students Arts degree course. presented with a Jack Petchey Award for given up more of his own time to introduce were invited to get involved as casualties and He said: “It is a joy to come to Havering dedication and hard work. a second weekly training session and attend people trapped in the wreckage, complete College and see all this great creative talent. Eighteen-year-old Chinua Prescod gives up referee and coaching courses. with fake blood and injuries, as well as act as “There is a fantastic style of work here. You his time to coach the team twice per week and In addition, he studies a full-time course, witnesses and members of the media. can see that everyone has a great painterly attends every match to offer technical and BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Applied Science. Katie Rigby, Level 3 extended diploma in essence. You can see they have studied the tactical guidance from the sidelines. Chinua adds: “The courses I attended have public services, said: “It was such an amazing classics to move forwards.” He said: “This year was the first time the taught me a lot of technical things about the experience.” Painting and decorating students Sam Lucas college had ever had a team but we didn’t have sport and I have passed the knowledge I have Darren Leen, from the Highways Agency and (19), from Chigwell, Glenn Cooper (18), from a coach. gained on to the team. former Blackburn College Public Services tutor, South Ockendon and Brentwood resident “At the first training session I got the “The teachers at the college have given me added: “There is nothing of this scale and size Christian Davy (24), worked alongside a team doing some drills and everything just a lot of help and support, and I couldn’t have in operation like this so it’s a unique exercise for professional team to make Bullard’s creative progressed from there. juggled everything without them.” the students and the spectators.” vision for the apartment a reality.