Scope

In 2008/09, the Framework for Excellence (the Framework) will apply to all FE, tertiary, sixth-form, agricultural and horticultural, and art and design colleges, and to private training providers that deliver Apprenticeships, Train to Gain and other LSC employer responsiveness-funded provision. The Provider Guide sets out in detail which elements of the Framework will be relevant for each type of provider, including which performance indicators.

The Framework will be piloted in 2008/09 by adult and community learning providers, independent specialist colleges and other providers not included for implementation in 2008/09.

From summer 2009, following this second phase of pilot activity, the Framework will apply to all providers that receive some element of LSC funding, except universities and other higher education institutions delivering further education provision, learndirect and providers that deliver European Social Fund provision only. The Framework will apply to all FE providers from summer 2010.

The consultation document on the Machinery of Government changes proposed that the Framework be developed to underpin a single, unified provider performance-assessment framework for post-16, to include sixth forms in secondary schools from 2010. This is discussed further in paragraphs 103 to 107.