This document, drawing on research and wide consultation, focuses on strategic issues and is aimed at senior managers. The paper reports on a survey into how colleges spent the HEFCE development funding awarded in 1999 – 2000. Scholarly activity is discussed in a review of debates on research, teaching and learning. The increasing importance of collaborative partnerships is illustrated by five case studies which highlight some key features in successful partnership working.
The final chapter suggests a framework for strategic planning and management of HE in FE building on information provided by questionnaire respondents. Seven key themes are considered in the planning process.

This research and development project, funded by HEFCE was carried out by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) in partnership with the University of Warwick, City College Manchester and Sheffield Hallam University. It resulted in two HEFCE documents, this and a sister publication (2003/15) aimed at practitioners.

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