Yorkshire and the Humber FE network meeting
On 13 April, the second Yorkshire and the Humber FE network took place at Askham Bryan College, York.
Representation in the network from all FE colleges by senior managers is being established – so far 10 of the region’s FE colleges are represented. This network has been setup by the Functional Skills Support Programme to support senior managers in FE colleges by encouraging peer-to-peer support. The sessions have an agenda which the Regional Facilitator puts together after liaising with the members by email during the weeks before the meeting. At a time of ongoing and often rapid change, this allows the agenda to be very flexible – items can be added and the order changed at the very last minute in order to reflect the most pressing issues of the moment.
Some of the issues that were discussed at this event included how to operate within the funding system and how to manage issues around accreditation and working with awarding organisations. The network has met twice so far and it is clear there is a wealth of experience around the table. Feedback from all attendees has been positive. Some members have met up and communicated between meetings to discuss shared issues.
It is intended that the venue for network meetings will rotate around the region.
The Regional Facilitator intends to set up similar networks for work-based learning providers and the adult and community learning sector. If you are a manager in either of these sectors then you are welcome to join –simply email the Yorkshire and the Humber Regional Centre.