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An evaluation of young people’s perspectives of the
Increased Flexibility programme
Background
The government’s Increased Flexibility (IF) programme has been running for three years now. This programme enables 14-16 year-olds to spend one day per week at a local College, undertaking a vocational GCSE or NVQ. The aim, among other things, is to increase attainment in national qualifications and interest in post-16 education.
The project
In 2003 TSA was contracted by Sussex Learning and Skills Council (SLSC) to undertake research into the first cohort of students on this programme. The research is focusing on the ‘learners voice’, ie on understanding young people’s experiences of the programme, and inputting this into the development of the scheme. The project involves 41 students, who have so far each been interviewed at three time points. Final interviews with the students will take place in September 2004. A full report will then be produced, and the results widely disseminated.
Extension to the current research
In April 2004 TSA was awarded a further grant to develop this work. We are currently undertaking case studies of 12 secondary schools involved in IF, and exploring the selection process onto IF – this involves young people, teachers, parents, and College staff. The young people will be followed up again once the course has started in September. This extension to the current project will be completed in mid-2005, when we will produce a Good Practice Guide to recruitment and retention on the IF programme.
Project staff
Kerry Devitt, Research Officer, is responsible for both the current project and the new extension, as detailed above. Debi Roker is the project manager.
Further information
Please contact Kerry Devitt at TSA, 23 New Road, Brighton, BN1 1WZ
Tel: 01273 647 332 email kdevitt@tsa.uk.com