Derek Longhurst Chief Executive d.longhurst@fdf.ac.uk

Derek LonghurstChief Executive

d.longhurst@fdf.ac.uk

www.fdf.ac.uk

Higher Ambitions

‘We will give priority to growing a diverse range of models of higher education. These include options such as part-time and work-based courses aimed particularly at mature students or those from non-conventional backgrounds…We will also encourage the further expansion of the successful Foundation degree’

Higher Ambitions: The future of universities in a knowledge economy. BIS (2009)

National growth in Foundation degree student numbers

Regional growth in Foundation degree student numbers

Number of Fd courses running (2008-09)

Who teaches Fd students?

Mode of study (2008-09)

24% part-time

42% part-time

76% full-time

58% full-time

Entrants by region

Entrants by subject area

Widening access (Fd entrants)

Institution type

Age group

% full-timers from low participation neighbourhoods

% part-timers from low participation neighbourhoods

FEC Young

Mature

22%

24%

21%

22%

HEI Young

Mature

15%

16%

16%

19%

• Workplace as learning environment

• Work as the curriculum

• Greater flexibility

• Integration of theory and practice

• Integration of employability skills with

academic skills

Transformation of HE?

• Flexible delivery

• Work-based learning

• Incorporation of NOS/professional standards

• Supports changes within a sector e.g.

development of a multi-professional

workforce to support service users

• Accreditation of in-house training

Workforce professionalisation

Derek LonghurstChief Executive

d.longhurst@fdf.ac.uk

www.fdf.ac.uk