The Leading Edge – a model of Employer Engagement Sandra Hopkins, Work Based Learning Manager The Background • The government’s vision for a prosperous economy relies on growth in skills at levels 4 and 5 in line with the needs of business. HEIs need to play a part in delivering programmes to meet these needs.
• As the population declines and the traditional market of 18-24 year olds reduces, HEIs need to explore other markets in order to continue to grow. This growth needs to be responsive to the needs of the economy.
• Learners need programmes which are flexible, accessible, life-friendly and which allow them to reach their potential in the workplace.
Challenges identified • UK and International recession • Changing cultures within Higher Education and Business • Building sustainable relationships, not just offering one-off courses • Differing expectations on timescales and terminology
Why at the University of Leicester? • Leading edge research and a commitment to teaching and learning also provide a solid basis fro the development of relevant and high quality programmes for employers.
Academic champions strategically placed in departments
• Quality teaching through our seven Foundation degrees and numerous flexible distance learning courses, each with varying levels of employer engagement and using work based learning.
Business Services (including KTP, consultancy)
Centrally placed team of: - Director of Professional and Flexible Learning - Work Based Learning Manager - Business Development Manager - Administrator
• Business and education partnerships with large employers and colleges through the Lifelong Learning Networks and Colleges and University of Leicester Network. • Awarded funding under the HEFCE Strategic Development Funds. • Commitment to drawing upon and developing our research and teaching expertise, to support employers in their training and education and make a substantial contribution to the economic development of the region.
Employers seeking to engage with the University of Leicester to develop their businesses and staff
Employer Engagement at the University of Leicester
Curriculum Development • Development of a flexible framework within which employer responsive provision can be developed quickly. • Populated with courses such as the Certificate in Professional Practice (with Specialism) where leadership and management combine with specialist subject areas.
The Future? • Modular delivery • Employer Based Training Accreditation • Apprenticeships • Predicting future skills needs and growth areas
References References: Leitch, S. (2006) Review of Skills - Final report - Prosperity for all in the global economy - world class skills. HM treasury. Brennan, J and Little, B. (2006) towards a Strategy for Workplace learning: Report of a study to assist HEFCE in the development of a strategy for workplace learning, London. Lambert, R. (2003) Lambert Review of Business-University Collaboration - Final Report. HM Treasury.
leadingedge@le.ac.uk