Future Vision and Development

Q: What real benefits will the Framework have for providers?

A: The benefits for providers are more informed user choice, a level playing field for commissioning, and consistent tools for management and improvement.

Q: With self-regulation ahead, doesn’t it make sense to give providers more responsibility?

A: The LSC already encourages providers to use the Framework in their self assessment reports; from summer 2009 it will be mandatory for providers to include the Framework within their self-assessment reports for 2008/09. Providers will be able to use the provider software to model scores for management information purposes and will be less dependent on historical data. The LSC and Ofsted have both worked with the Single Voice to develop the new guidance, Self-assessment: updated guidance for the FE system, which is now available on the LSC’s website

Q: What confidence can I have that the Framework will last, especially as everything is going to change due to the new Machinery of Government proposals?

A: The recent consultation document on the Machinery of Government changes proposed a unified performance-assessment framework based on the Framework for Excellence, which would include all schools.