In his recent grant letter to HEFCE, John Denham directly acknowledges the contribution of Lifelong Learning Networks, as well as prioritising three important areas in which they contribute.

1. HEFCE is being asked as a first priority to deliver an increase in HE student numbers, linked to the Leitch Targets. It is acknowledged that many of these new students will be from ‘underrepresented groups from all parts of the working population’. Flexible and innovative delivery models are urged.

YHELLN is supporting partners to engage with employers on a scalable and sustainable basis. Furthermore it is directly supporting partners to adapt learner support structures to meet the needs of learners from a wide variety of backgrounds, including those in work. This latter initiative will ensure sustainable growth in numbers, and promote the success of individual students.

2. As a second priority, HEFCE is asked to grow Foundation Degree numbers, and to continue to make progress on Flexible Learning Pathways. Adaptability and speed of response to demand are highlighted, as are the provision of tailored programmes for businesses.

YHELLN is directly and indirectly supporting a number of demand-led Foundation Degree developments across the partnership, and piloting the roll-out of ‘bite size’ modules. In addition it is supporting the University of Hull’s ‘Flexible Framework’ initiative. These developments will enhance all partners’ capacity to deliver responsive curriculum to current and future employees of local businesses.

3. Thirdly, widening participation is prioritised. This includes the development of ‘seamless progression routes to higher level skills’ in which the role of Lifelong Learning Networks is highlighted. Alongside this, the importance of short-cycle qualifications and credit accumulation is considered important.

YHELLN is in the early stages of piloting tailored, local progression agreements across the partnership. The bite-size initiative mentioned above will allow meaningful engagement with HE for a wide range of learners, with the option to accumulate credit over time.

Reference:

Rt Hon John Denham MP, Higher Education Funding Council for England Grant Letter, 18 January 2008: http://hefce.ac.uk/news/hefce/2008/grant/