1. WHAT IS LIG ? Learning Innovation grants are kickstart capital payments to independent work based learning providers funded by the LSC designed to encourage the innovative use of technology in teaching and learning

2. WHY LIG ? Aims-To encourage the innovative use technology in teaching and learning, to enhance the learning experience and to contribute to learner achievement and success. Managed in partnership with the Association of Learning Providers

3. WHAT IT ISNT Not for Administration systems Not for finance systems Not for training purposes (capital only) Not for revenue (it is a capital grant)

4. The story so far-Massive demand from the sector Four phases since 2006 Value of bidsGrants Allocated received LIG 1£6.6M £1.47M LIG 2£4.5M£1.68M LIG 3£10.8M£2.8M LIG 4£14.0M£4.0M

5. Why is the LSC making this investment Because experience and evidence in the last two years tells us that it works It does improve retention It does improve results It does improve the learning experience

6. LIG 4 2008/09 The next stage-Key points £4 million grant fund available Criteria Focussing on Train to Gain and Apprenticeships Encouraging providers to work in consortia Providers to contribute 6.9% to admin of fund Open to non-ALP members but LSC contractors only Priority- independent WBL providers

7. Why are we asking providers to make a contribution this time ? We are adopting the same policy with all capital grants across the sectors ie. FE and ACL due to budget constraints Experience has shown that this approach ensures the buy-in of provider management It was always the intention for the LSC to kick start this initiative but the sector must make it sustainable

8. What are we looking for from capital bids? That they address our priority areas ie Train to gain and apprenticeship provision There are clear learning benefits with positive and constructive outcomes They are innovative and creative, not simply a continuation of existing work Outcomes should be measurable, realistic and deliverable Show development of staff skills and knowledge

9. LIG Grants-This is part of the LSC strategy in the sector Other Examples of the LSC funded programme CEL and QIA staff training programmes (Connect, Realise, e-Guides) Course attendance capital grants Appointment of Regional Support centre WBL advisors Development of the Excellence Gateway

10. In Summary We hope that you will be inspired today as you see the outstanding examples of good work prompted by the LIG grants This innovative work is about inspirational people however our belief is that the grants have accelerated progress in this critical area.