Learning and skills Beacon status

An award recognising outstanding sector organisations

Managed by

The Quality Improvement Agency (QIA) is pleased to announce that, as a result of our recent competitive tendering process, the contract to manage and administer the Learning and Skills Beacons and STAR awards has been awarded to Nord Anglia Education plc, with effect from 1 April 2007. The contract will operate for three years, ie, until 31 March 2010, subject to annual review. QIA wishes to congratulate Nord Anglia Education plc on their winning tender, and to offer our thanks to our previous contractors for their help and support during the operation of the original contracts for these awards.

For

Post-16 colleges and other learning providers funded by the LSC and inspected by Ofsted and / or ALI

Beacon status recognises excellence and innovation. It is awarded to organisations rather than individuals, and celebrates outstanding performance in teaching and learning and outstanding leadership and management. Beacons are expected to play a key role in leading improvement, reform and change in the sector.

Beacon innovation work is wide-ranging and has included curriculum development, pastoral support, cross-institution working, the use of ICT in teaching and learning, and improving participation and retention.

Learning and Skills Beacon status is awarded by the Minister of State for Lifelong Learning, Further and Higher Education. Application is by invitation only. Potential candidates, who satisfy set criteria, are asked to submit a short proposal setting out how they will lead quality improvement and reform for the sector. These proposals are considered by an independent advisory panel made up of a number of key organisations in the sector.

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