Developing responsiveness: college-employer interaction

Responsive interaction between further education (FE) colleges and employers, learners and the wider community, is manifest in enhanced student learning and the ongoing provision of the skilled workforce required by employers. Successful interaction is vital if FE colleges are to play a key role in the economic and social development of the United Kingdom (UK). This document reports on the outcomes of a study to explore the level and nature of interaction between FE colleges and employers, and factors affecting the success of partnerships. The research builds on an earlier project which summarised good practice in the development and management of college-employer interaction. The present study sought to further develop the classification of interactions and criteria for their evaluation, to identify college and employer policies that facilitate effective relationships and factors that hinder success, and to propose strategies to increase interaction and minimise barriers. This report outlines the methodology and the classification of college-employer interaction, describes the changing context of such interactions, details interactions in practice, and concludes with a summary of the main findings and recommendations for improving the responsiveness of interactions. An appendix contains detailed case studies and evidence in support of the report. Show less