The conferences attracted speakers from key educational organisations including Gareth Griffiths from the Learning and Skills Council, Carey Johnson from the Department for Children, Schools and Families and David Wales from the National Apprenticeships Service.

Delegates were given the opportunity to discuss and share their views on the implications of the DCSF's 14-19 Action Plan. Many delegates found this to be an invaluable opportunity in helping them to understand and prepare to meet the DCSF's requirements

Katie Adams, Data and On-line Projects Manager for the 14-19 Team, Manchester City Council said,
"It was great to talk and share ideas with colleagues from other local authority areas about the challenges we face. I left the conference with greater clarification about what we need to do and by when." 

In addition to providing clarification on DCSF requirements, the conferences also gave delegates the opportunity to consider ways to improve Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) through the 14-19 prospectus. Presentations and discussions highlighted the challenges 14-19 partnerships face in ensuring that learners have access to all relevant learning opportunities in their area.  These challenges include providing clear guidance on best practice IAG, encouraging further education colleges to engage with other local providers and making learning pathways clear to all, including teachers and parents.

Presentations from the National Apprenticeships Service (NAS) provided greater clarification on what is expected of local authorities in relation to integrating prospectuses with Apprenticeship Vacancies Online. The NAS also provided welcome reassurance that they will be working closely with local authorities across the UK to ensure that 14-19 prospectuses make all opportunities available to learners, including apprenticeships. 

Overall, the conferences were a significant step towards helping key stakeholders understand and move towards meeting the requirements of the DCSF 14-19 Action Plan.

For more information on the '14-19 Action Plan - Next Steps' conferences please contact 0117 370 7000 or email education@s-cool.com.

Invaluable networking and best practice sharing opportunities