The need

The Improvement Strategy's vision is for a further education system that attracts young people and adults to learning and equips them with the skills and knowledge they need for work and personal fulfilment, transforms communities, increases social justice and is the powerhouse of a high-skills economy. The further education system will be driven increasingly by demand from learners and employers. To realise the vision, the system needs enterprising and innovative leadership and staff whose motivation and commitment to excellence inspire a culture of learning.

Aims

The three aims of the Improvement Strategy are as follows

1. All learners ⁶ in the further education system are equally able to access high quality education and training that equip them with the skills, knowledge and qualifications they need for work and personal fulfilment
2. Training provision meets employers' ⁷ business needs, and employers can recruit people with the vocational and employability skills needed to increase productivity
3. The further education system continuously improves so that colleges and providers aspire to and achieve excellence, and no provision is unsatisfactory

There is a need to build on and develop existing strengths while meeting the real challenges faced by colleges and providers today. This vision will be brought about only if every organisation with an interest in the further education system works in partnership, considers how current performance may be improved and shares good practice with other organisations.