Event Outcomes

Bridging the divide: building effective progression agreements

Thursday 15 March 2007, Central London

This was a joint conference organised by members of the LSN Solutions, West London Lifelong Learning Network and South London Lifelong Learning Network

Widening participation in higher education is a key priority for the post 16 learning and skills sector. HEFCE has funded the new Lifelong Learning Networks with the specific remit of developing innovative vocational progression routes into higher level study. Developing effective Progression Agreements between a variety of stakeholders, including FE and HE, employers, will play a central role in delivering this change. This national conference presented a review of the best practice approaches in this area and enabled delegates to discuss how progression agreements can be tailored to maximize progression opportunities for learners in their area.

What delegates said:

"Excellent presentations"

"Well rounded, informative and gave helpful advice"

"The opportunity to network was a real strength"

"thought provoking - realistic answers of progression to date"

"Well organised, fascinating"

"Excellent to get the 'learner voice' into this event"

After the resounding success of this conference we are planning follow up events for later in the year. News and updates about these events will be published on the website as they develop.

Please find below the presentations from the conference and notes from the four morning and afternoon workshops:

Main speakers

Progression agreements: definitions, processes and value added

John Stone , Chief Executive, LSN

Presentation

Progression agreements: a HEFCE perspective

Kevin Whitston , Head of Widening Participation, HEFCE

Presentation

Interactive workshops

LLN Progression Agreements: A Way Forward

Chaired jointly by Michael Hill , Head of Widening Participation, Kingston University and Dr. Graeme Hall , Executive Director, West London Lifelong Learning Network

Presentation

Workshop summary

Identifying barriers to successful implementation

Chaired by Rick Crowshaw , Development Manager for Progression and Collaborative Partnerships, Greater Manchester Strategic Alliance (GMSA)

Presentation

Workshop summary and workshop notes

A Curriculum Based Approach to the Development of Progression Agreements

Chaired by Sarah Hardman , Deputy Director, Sussex Learning Network

Presentation

Workshop summary

Retention and achievement

Chaired by Justin Edwards , Associate Director for Information Services, LSN

Presentation

Workshop summary

Plenary

Chaired by Andrew Ward , Chair of the West London Lifelong Learning Network Board and Director of Corporate Development at Thames Valley University.

Summary notes