Search results

Over two papers, we explore the way performance measures drive management practices and organisational process within [further education] FE colleges. In this paper we focus on quantitative indicators of student success, particularly data on student retention and achievement (success rates). Our research suggests these measures are of particular importance to senior college leaders in reflecting the performance of their colleges, and relate strongly to what these leaders believe to be their core business: teaching and learning. Additionally, the Learning and Skills Council focuses on success rates in determining funding and assessing 'college performance'. We begin by discussing the development of performance measures in the learning and skills sector, then briefly review literature on performance measurement in FE, and outline our research methodology. In discussing our findings, we cover: what measures leaders use in their colleges, and why; how they work with success rates; how our respondents believe the measures could be improved; and what other measures leaders would like to see.