Further education means business: underlying evidence

In 'Further education means business' the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) sets out the findings of an extensive review of Northern Ireland's further education sector [report available in VOCEDplus at TD/TNC 137.1047]. The review has been wide ranging in its approach and has considered regional, national and international policies and practice. New research was commissioned to supplement existing information on further education and the work of further education colleges. In addition, study visits were undertaken to evaluate best practice in vocational education both at home...  [+] Show more

In 'Further education means business' the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) sets out the findings of an extensive review of Northern Ireland's further education sector [report available in VOCEDplus at TD/TNC 137.1047]. The review has been wide ranging in its approach and has considered regional, national and international policies and practice. New research was commissioned to supplement existing information on further education and the work of further education colleges. In addition, study visits were undertaken to evaluate best practice in vocational education both at home and abroad. Concurrent with these information gathering exercises, DEL also launched a major public consultation which sought opinions primarily on the future role of the sector. As a result of this research DEL has compiled a considerable body of new information relating to further education in Northern Ireland not previously in the public domain. The evidence includes DEL statistics on the sector, consultants' reports on different elements of its work, evidence from study visits to investigate best practice elsewhere and public opinions on the working of the current system and the future role of the sector.

This document presents a summary of this new information together with a listing of the material already in the public domain which contributed to the review.

Edited excerpts from publication.