Bridging the learning skills divide

Subject:
Progression

Led by:
Open University - London

Online materials:
To see the final report for this project, click here

Outline:
The project focused on what learners need to support their progression from FE courses to practice-based HE in the cultural and creative sector and how flexible home-based learning can help them to become successful students at level 4.

Programme managers, IAG staff and a range of FE and HE partners were able to identify student needs and map vocational progression against flexible, home-based, study options. This included securing progression agreements into vocational HE courses, based on students having undertaken modular OU courses to fill gaps in their knowledge and skills.

New pathways have been created that incorporate part-time HE study modules, for students progressing from level 3 vocational qualifications in the creative and cultural industries using OU study modules that were already available and which were potentially accessible to learners in FE with appropriate IAG. These study modules support generic and subject specific skills development and overcome blockages in progression pathways.  

Main contact:
Denise Bates, Assistant Director: OU London - 020 7556 6117 / d.p.bates@open.ac.uk