Further Education Bill

AIM

A Bill will be introduced to reform the Further Education system so that it can better equip people with skills that they and the economy need Extract from the Queen's speech

This bill would enable colleges to award foundation degrees independently of universities.

It reflects commitments made in the White Paper "Further Education, Raising Skills, Improving Life Chances" published March 2006.

MAIN PROVISIONS

Remove local Learning and Skills Council structure and replace it with 9 Regional Councils

Give Learning and Skills Councils powers to intervene where FE provision is unsatisfactory, including new duty to direct removal of principals and senior staff of FE colleges

Regulate qualifications of all FE college principals

Improve consultation between the FE sector and employers and students