Written question asked by Tim Farron (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 6 January 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 January 2006. It was answered by Bill Rammell (Labour) on Tuesday, 10 January 2006 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Further Education

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills pursuant to the answer of 19 December 2005, Official Report, column 2414W, on further education (funding), what her Department's policy is on whether further education colleges should recruit extra 16 to 19-year-olds above their plans agreed with the relevant local learning and skills council.

Answer: [holding answer 9 January 2006]: My Department's policy on provision for young people is outlined in the Learning and Skills Act, 2000 which details our commitment, and the Learning and Skills Council's (LSC) duty, to secure the provision of education and training for all those aged 16–19 years. Colleges may enrol students above the numbers they have agreed with the LSC and can do so if they wish, and have the capacity. I would expect colleges to respond positively to learner demand where they are able to do so. I would also expect that any unplanned growth in student numbers will be reflected in the plans colleges agree with local LSCs for the following year. Where individual colleges cannot respond to increased demand local LSCs will ensure there is appropriate alternative provision.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 40772; 441 c514W
Session: 2005-06
Related items: Further Education (Funding)
Monday, 19 December 2005
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Finance Further education Student numbers
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk