FE chartered status consultation launched Tuesday, November 20, 2012 - 15:13

Responding to the launch of the consultation to create a Chartered Status Scheme for Further Education Institutions, NIACE Chief Executive, David Hughes, said:

“Anything that enhances the profile, trust and reputation of colleges and training providers is welcome. We would hope that if a college has chartered status then it would give learners assurance about the quality of the learning experience that they can expect. Learners need to be sure that when they make the decision to learn they are learning with an organisation which takes its accountabilities seriously and values their involvement as well as delivering a high quality experience. 

“It’s really good to see measures included in the Chartered Status Scheme about openness, responsiveness to learners and employers, and improved quality. We also support the aspiration and the willingness to consult with the sector before implementation. That means really listening to what they say. The interests of learners and employers will not be protected by a brand alone but an explicit commitment by providers to serve their communities and make the right links between learning, community and economic growth. 

“We are encouraged that many of the ideas that Baroness Sharp came up with in her report - A Dynamic Nucleus - are being incorporated. It is vital that colleges and providers are accountable to those they work with. We’re really keen to work with BIS throughout this consultation - and beyond – to ensure that this Chartered Status Scheme will go a long way to not only enhancing the reputation of the further education sector but also improving the experience for learners and employers across the country.  

“We know there will be challenging implementation issues and NIACE is committed to ensuring there are procedures in place to stop it becoming too bureaucratic. We encourage all NIACE members to consider the proposals and respond to this very important consultation for the further education sector.”