The new system for
allocating government funding to further education and training in
England comes into effect today, following a transition period
over recent months.
The Skills Funding Agency will fund and regulate adult further
education and skills in England.
There will be four direct routes into training for employers and
learners – Train to Gain, the National Apprenticeship Service and
the Adult Advancement and Careers Service, as well as further
education colleges and training organisations.
Further Education and Skills Minister Kevin Brennan said:
“It has never been more important to make sure the right people
have the right skills to get into new industries and get on in
their careers.
“This new flexible system will drive forward development of new
skills at all levels. It will respond to changing demand from
employers and learners in the years ahead, and reinforce the
freedom of colleges to direct funding to where it is needed most.
“Anyone who wants to get access to some of the fantastic training
available should simply get in touch with their local college.”
Establishment of this new system follows publication of the
Skills for Growth strategy last year and Royal Assent being
granted to the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act
in November 2009.
Under the Act, local authorities will take on responsibility for
securing education and training for all 16 to 19 year olds.
Today also sees the Young People’s Learning Agency taking up its
responsibilities in 16 to 19-year-old provision, working with
Government and local authorities to help develop and deliver their
vision and plans for young people's learning
Young People’s Minister Iain Wright said:
“The Young People’s Learning Agency will play a pivotal role in
the commissioning of high quality provision for young people.”
Notes to Editors
1. For more information on Skills for Growth, please visit - http://www.bis.gov.uk/policies/further-education-skills/skills-for-growth
2. The Further Education and Skills budget for 2010/11 is
£3.5bn, which will support training for an estimated 3.4m adult learners.
Department for Business, Innovation & Skills
The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) is
building a dynamic and competitive UK economy by: creating the
conditions for business success; promoting innovation, enterprise
and science; and giving everyone the skills and opportunities to
succeed. To achieve this it will foster world-class universities
and promote an open global economy. BIS - Investing in our future.
Contacts:
BIS Press Office
NDS.BIS@coi.gsi.gov.uk
Alex. Hamilton
Phone: 020 7215 5976
Alex.Hamilton@bis.gsi.gov.uk