The post-18 education review chaired by Philip Augar was released on 30 May 2019 and suggests there is a strong argument for change in the further education sector.
 

The review offers the government and stakeholders recommendations, the first being to provide the FE college network with a dedicated capital investment of £1 billion over the next spending review period. The panel also found that while some colleges lack access to specialised provision, others have over-capacity. Smaller colleges that struggle to secure enough staff should consider integrating.

Participation in further study has dropped, likely due to a reduction in fully funded options. At present, only students aged 19 to 23 are eligible to have their level 2 and 3 qualifications fully funded. To support social mobility, the panel recommends that full funding be provided for level 2 and 3 qualifications to everyone, regardless of age.
 

The review panel also recommended that the ESFA funding rules be simplified and colleges be allowed greater flexibility regarding spending. Funding for level 6 apprenticeships and above should be available for those who have not completed a publicly-funded degree.
 

Investment in the FE workforce was seen to be a priority, with clear routes for progression and developments. A lack of data concerning the college sector also needs to be addressed, as it is sparse in comparison to universities and schools. Giving colleges a protected title like universities would help to attract potential learners and prove to the public that colleges are part of an adult education network.
 

Other recommendations included a reduction in the core funding rate for 18-year-olds and appointing Ofsted to inspect apprenticeships.  

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