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13 May 2026

Confidence, curiosity, and connection: How colleges are building learners for life

Acting as the bridge between school and adulthood for many young people, colleges play a powerful role in shaping learning for lifelong preparation. Revealing the views of 1,000 college tutors and 1,000 students, Pearson’s Perspectives on Life and Learning in Further Education report is now opening up conversations about how colleges foster confidence, curiosity and the life skills learners need to thrive in every part of their education and beyond.

EPA reform: changes inevitable, but not unfamiliar

Change is coming and, as always with FE, it’s seemingly inevitable.

I’ve spent over 20 years working in the sector. In that time, I’ve seen NVQs, the Qualifications Credit Framework, Apprenticeship Frameworks, and Apprenticeship Standards.

Helping every learner use AI responsibly

AI didn’t wait to be invited into the classroom. It burst in mid-lesson. Across UK colleges, learners are already using AI to plan assignments, summarise sources, tidy up grammar and spelling, and even generate whole essays – often with varying levels of guidance from their tutors.

Supporting the UK’s Transport Decarbonisation Plan Through Skills

The UK Government’s Decarbonising Transport: A Better, Greener Britain strategy sets a legally binding path towards a net-zero transport system. With transport accounting for 27% of UK domestic greenhouse gas emissions in 2019 — more than any other sector — reforming how we move people and goods is a national priority.

Project power: ASDAN expands its qualifications portfolio

From 2026, ASDAN’s planned Foundation and Higher Project Qualifications will sit alongside its Extended Project Qualification[CM1] , creating a complete pathway. With flexibility, choice and recognition built in, these qualifications give learners the skills – and the confidence – to positively move forward.

Plan for change funding to drive green construction skills

The government has launched a new plan for change to address the skills deficit in the construction industry, providing an additional £600 million funding over the next four years to train up to 60,000 new construction workers. This initiative is directly linked to other crucial objectives aimed at achieving net zero emissions, fostering growth, and revitalising the workforce in Britain. Green construction skills will be critical to ensure a competent construction labour force that can deliver the Government pledges.

Reshaping the New Green Skills Landscape

The UK government is embarking on a transformative journey to reshape its skills landscape, placing a significant emphasis on the development of green skills. This initiative is central to the government’s goal of becoming a clean energy superpower, promoting growth, and achieving net-zero emissions. A modern and skilled green workforce will be vital in executing commitments related to housing, infrastructure, and sustainable development.