The paper discusses recent ‘macro’ factors which have impacted on the sector and partnership links which can aid educational development. 

In response to an increase to competition and institutions offering similar products, Bolton Institution has taken the approach of developing links with regional feeder colleges.  Results show that this also raises the profile of HE locally.  This has merits for students in providing an educational pathway without geographical relocation and by providing a holistic picture of future career opportunities.  Students are familiar with the culture of the HEI before making a commitment to study, thus there is a positive impact on retention.

A partnership has been established between Bolton Institute and Tameside College where students studying the three year BSc (Hons) in Sport Rehabilitation spend the first year and a half at the College followed by a further one and a half years at Bolton Institute.   This combines the advantages of both the industry experience and the culture of an institution in the HE sector.  Specific quality management mechanisms have been put into place to ensure academic rigour.

A Greater Manchester Consortium for HE in FE has been established to build collaborative partnerships, extend scholarly activity, and to benefit from good practice.  The article identifies ways in which links between FE and HE can widen participation but stresses that long term success requires robust quality mechanisms and continual improvement.