Summit themes

The Guardian 2nd Annual Further Education and Skills Summit will provide delegates with the opportunity to listen to and participate in discussions on a broad range of themes. It will:

• Consider the ‘Machinery of Government’ changes and the latest challenges these present for leadership and management

• Explore issues concerning the FE sector’s reputation and the importance of
  pursuing excellence

• Evaluate the role of teaching and learning as the core business in FE and Skills

• Discuss the impact of the changes to 14-19 funding and the challenges and opportunities that come with having funding responsibilities at a local level

• Provide a platform to discuss future developments in focused key issue forums:

• Look at the development and evolution of new qualifications, in particular the diplomas

  • Establish the way forward for apprenticeships as a vital part of the qualifications framework in further education and skills
  • Debate issues of quality assurance
  • Consider the way ahead as the sector moves towards
    self-regulation
  • Evaluate how to develop and further a coherent workforce strategy
  • Hear best practice examples of employer engagement and responsiveness
  • Bring together central aspects of good practice in supporting and encouraging CPD and the importance of professional development in the sector
  • Look at local and regional skills needs and ways for the sector to work effectively on a regional level and in partnership with local communities