Sharing good practice in Centres Of Vocational Excellence

In 2005-06 we ran a project in support of LSC Lancashire’s Employer Responsiveness/CoVE programme. The aim was to support the development of good practice networks, building on existing good practice shared through regional and national networks, and develop case studies. We also held a cross-sectoral conference to promote the exchange of good practice between sectors.

Key findings included:

• A great deal of collaboration exists, particularly at regional and national level. At local level, sharing may be more likely on cross-cutting themes such as employer responsiveness or equality of opportunity
• For collaboration to occur effectively, potential conflicts of interest – e.g. between neighbouring Colleges working in the same sectors – must be recognised and realistic action plans developed which work within the constraints these impose.
• For some sectors – e.g. retail - the CoVE emphasis on Level 3 qualifications was inappropriate. CoVEs felt they would work more effectively with greater flexibility over levels of qualifications and numbers to be achieved.
• There were concerns over ongoing funding after the end of CoVE funding, especially if the CoVE primarily works with SMEs who may not be able to afford full cost recovery courses

Click here for the full report (available shortly).