Fareham College is one of 203 further education (FE) colleges nationwide calling upon UK political leaders to implement the main findings from the recently published Independent Review of Post 18 Education and Funding, led by Dr Philip Augar.
The Augar Review is the first of its kind since the 1960s that considered higher and further education together as part of a single system. It concludes that in the national interest, there is a pressing need for this system to be more balanced and that the improved status, stability and sustainability of further education colleges should become a national policy priority.
In an open letter to the Chancellor and Secretary of State for Education, 203 further education colleges, including Fareham College, urged the Government to hear and act on the recommendations of the report. In the letter they also raise concerns about the report’s timing. In this period of economic and political uncertainty, there is a worry that its insights and proposals might get lost.
Andrew Kaye, Principal and CEO at Fareham College, said:
“The recent review of Post 18 Education and Funding, led by Dr Philip Augar, made some significant recommendations for further education colleges. Our region’s colleges provide a crucial service to our communities and play a critical role in developing economic growth.
“The report’s recommendations of capital investment in the FE estate, adult entitlement to free level 2 and 3 courses, increased core funding for 16-18 year olds and investment in the FE workforce are very welcome and timely. However, with politicians focused on a leadership contest and an ongoing Brexit debate, as Principal of Fareham College, I urge them not to lose sight of the value FE colleges will play in a post-Brexit economy.”
A copy of the ‘Open Letter on the Implementation of the Augar Review’ can be downloaded here.
