1. Lifelong Learning Networks (LLNs) (last updated September 2008) Progressing the vocational learner

2. Sub-regional Birmingham, Black Country & Solihull Cheshire & Warrington Coventry & Warwickshire Cumbria Higher Learning Greater Manchester Greater Merseyside & West Lancs Hampshire & Isle of Wight Herefords & Worcestershire Higher Futures (South Yorks) Higher York Kent & Medway Leap Ahead (Derby) Linking London Lancashire MOVE (East of England) North East Higher Skills Network Progress South Central (Bucks) Skills for Sustainable Communities (Leics) South East London South London South West Staffordshire, Shropshire, Stoke on Trent, Telford Sussex Learning Network Thames Gateway West London West Yorkshire Western Vocational Yorkshire & Humber East National National Arts Learning Network Vetnet 30 LLNs now in operation

3. Mission Lifelong Learning Networks are HEFCE funded partnerships of universities, colleges and other education-related organisations. We are committed to increasing the number of vocational learners in HE ensuring the UK remains competitive in the global economy.

4. Aims Improve the coherence, clarity and certainty of progression opportunities for higher level vocational learners Respond to employers’ higher level skills needs, helping to develop a more flexible and skilled workforce Facilitate unique partnerships between colleges and universities Develop curriculum that is fit for purpose Strengthen existing Information, Advice & Guidance, making clear the value of vocational learning.

5. Partners LLNs have achieved some fundamental milestones thanks to the commitment of our colleagues and partnerships with organisations such as: HEFCE Sector Skills Councils Employers Regional Development Agencies local authorities Aimhigher Learning & Skills Council Foundation Degree Forward

6. Achievements Over 1,000 progression agreements have been signed to clarify entry requirements into HE, with many more in development Over 74,000 additional student places have been allocated Over 400 academic partners work in partnership with us

7. Our strengths Change Lifelong Learning Networks make a positive difference to the lives of vocational learners and productivity of employers. Access Lifelong Learning Networks have specialist teams that draw on the expertise from hundreds of providers from our network partners. Knowledgeable Lifelong Learning Networks understand local needs, effectively analysing skills requirements in local communities and businesses. Flexible Lifelong Learning Networks tackle local HE concerns and can react to changing needs. Partnerships Lifelong Learning Networks act as platforms for coherent and coordinated activity at local, regional and national levels.

8. Contact Lifelong Learning Networks National Forum E: contactus@lifelonglearningnetworks.org.ukcontactus@lifelonglearningnetworks.org.uk T: 01904 876350