The 157 Group of leading colleges has unveiled a five-point strategic plan designed to raise the profile, influence and effectiveness of further education. They are: ensuring the group has a powerful influence on policy; raising the national reputation of FE colleges; leading self- improvement and capacity building in colleges; achieving significant additional efficiencies across the group and the sector, improving provision for learners; and positioning the group and the FE and skills sector centre-stage in raising employment and returning the British economy to strong and sustainable growth. 157 Group chairman Frank McLoughlin said: “Members of the group will reach out to offer more radical opportunities to all learners as we assert our role as essential public assets for economic recovery, employment, mobility and social cohesion.”

www.157group.co.uk.