What was it about and how did it go? 

The programme looked closely at the impact that the QCF developments were having on the qualifications and programmes of learning that Centres would be delivering from Autumn 2010.  Other subjects that got close scrutiny were Apprenticeship Frameworks, Diplomas, the plans for Credit Funding and the revised Common Inspection Framework.  Still many 'ifs and buts', but speakers brought delegates up-to-date.  Even more importantly, delegates had the opportunity to work with colleagues across the country to influence the level and nature of the changes that would confront them and which would affect the futures of centres, companies, teachers, trainers and learners.

You can access the programme and the feedback from delegates by using the links below.

Presentations caused much thinking and the workshop sessions allowed good discussion of points that had been raised.  However, there are still clear concerns regarding the implementation of the QCF, not the least of which is the news that Functional Skills are not now included - at least until we have a further 'review'.

So where does that leave the Apprenticeship Frameworks?  It looks like the NVQ name has been retained but NVQs will now be Diplomas.  Positive news is that there is good indication that the Technical Certificate will remain, but nothing is yet clear.  We want to see the Functional Skills included, but Centres do not need the extra work of bringing QCF and non-QCF elements together.

Awarding Bodies are certainly not currently on the same 'hymn sheet' and there appears to be a range of levels of understanding of what Learners and Providers need.  

Centres are being encouraged to develop and offer their own qualifications but where does that leave standardisation across the country?  How portable will these centre-devised qualifications be?  

And what about funding?  It is a brave person who will try to predict the outcome at this stage!

NFEC will be pursuing these concerns on behalf of Members and the Sector, but there may well be other issues that you would like to see addressed.  Get in touch and let us know

Good news is that delegates voted unanimously for NFEC to return to its 'two conferences a year' format.  Delegates were adament that the pace of change is such that just one per year will not 'get it done'.  So there will be another in the Spring of 2010 and the planned dates are 27 and 28 May. 

Delegates were well pleased with the venue so the May event will be in the same place.