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New arrangements for post-16 learning in the UK were developed in response to a number of perceived weaknesses in the existing system. By November 2002, the implementation of new learning arrangements had resulted in policy, organisational and operational changes. This interim report is part of a two-year project to assess key stakeholder and partner opinions on key post-16 processes and their contribution to learner performance, quality and standards. Key organisations representing accountable stakeholders for the post-16 learning arrangements are: the Department for Education and Skills (DfES), the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), Jobcentre Plus, the Adult Learning Inspectorate, and the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted). The report examines the development and changes since April 2001 in the funding, institutional structure and operation of learning for adults and young people over the age of 16. The qualitative evaluation focuses on five key areas: implementation of the LSC arrangements; raising standards; the Standards Fund; inspections; and Area Wide Inspections. The report suggests that there have been some difficulties associated with the changes but the key elements are in place. There is a high level of awareness among stakeholders of the need for improved performance and raised standards. Many new and improved processes have been and continue to be put in place. At this point, a systematic impact on learners appears limited apart from a few specific isolated instances of changes affecting learners. A final evaluation report will be compiled when the study is completed in January 2004.