The paper identifies two distinct periods of sustained growth in HE, that of the late 1980s and early 1990s which was not projected and was unplanned, and a second which continued from the late 1990s which aimed to widen participation and involve 50% of the 18 – 30 age group by 2010.  This paper examines some of the key characteristics of each of these periods of the mass expansion of HE and the policies which shaped them.

Three major dimensions of the English system (in comparison with other parts of the UK) are identified in the first period: the role of the former polytechnics with their emphasis on access, the demand for the full-time three year first degree and the franchising of HE provision from HEIs to FE colleges.  The implications of the above for the role of FE colleges as HE providers are discussed.

The second period of HE expansion with its focus on widening participation and the contribution by colleges is examined and consideration is given to the recommendations made by the National Committee of Inquiry into Higher Education (Dearing report).  The introduction of the Foundation Degree is discussed alongside the funding mechanisms and collaborative partnership issues for colleges in delivery of this qualification.

Finally the future targets of HE participation rates are debated together with the policy objective of greater differentiation for HE, including that offered by FE colleges.  This paper is published in Higher Education Quarterly, Volume 60 (4) 2006 pp392-412.  The definitive version is available at www.blackwell-synergy.com.  This paper is also available on the FurtherHigher Project website at www.sheffield.ac.uk/furtherhigher

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