Regional Improvement Teams introduced for colleges
The government is introducing new Regional Improvement Teams to help underperforming colleges to turn things around.
The new Regional Improvement Teams will analyse colleges’ performance in delivering on the priorities of a local area, including the skills local people need and improving outcomes for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
All colleges will get access to best practice guidance and performance data and those with identified problems will get targeted support, including peer mentoring.
Made up of sector and industry experts, teams will offer support and advice for improving individual college performance, building stronger collaboration between colleges and universities in responding to local skills needs.
The teams will be rolled out nationally by the next academic year to break down barriers to opportunity for around 70,000 young people – with plans to reach underperforming colleges across the country.
Government has also announced it will invest nearly £800m extra into funding for 16–19-year-olds next year (2026-7). Coming from the existing Spending Review settlement, this funding will support an additional 20,000 students.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: "By providing targeted support where it’s needed most, we’re delivering on our commitment to break down barriers to opportunity and give young people the best possible start in their careers."
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