GHWY backs government decision to retain majority of post-16 courses  

Go Higher West Yorkshire (GHWY) is in full support of the government’s decision to retain 70% of post-16 courses that were earmarked for defunding. The move follows a feasibility review into vocational qualifications that were due to be defunded by the previous government. Our stance is backed by other sector bodies such as the University and College Union in this article 

GHWY aims to reduce inequalities in Higher Education (HE) access and success. Therefore, retaining these courses will enable learners to have greater choice and clear pathways available to progress into HE or employment. Having a range of qualification options means that learners can select from a combination of types of nationally recognised qualifications to gain skills, experience and knowledge towards their next steps.  

The government’s impact assessment demonstrates this will especially benefit learners from ‘working class’ backgrounds. It will, for instance, provide greater pathways to social mobility through a variety of ways to achieve UCAS tariff points that will support HE application.  

How GHWY can support post-16 learners 

Ahead of the government’s announcement in December 2024, we hosted a CPD session that focused on the Post-16 Qualification Landscape. The session provided an overview of the qualification landscape and useful resources developed by GHWY that can be used with learners to help them make informed choices for their future. 

Watch the webinar.

We also collaborates with West Yorkshire Combined Authority to host the Post-16 Network Group, which has a focus on careers and progression for post-16 learners. It is open to all colleges and sixth forms and has a membership of careers professionals. The group meets three times a year to discuss key sector priorities, and to bring together post-16 staff, HE providers and employers.  

The GHWY Year 11 Support Guide is a key resource to use with learners. It aims to take the complexity out of understanding options for further and higher education.

Further information 

If you are interested in joining Post-16 Network group, or would like to know more about our learning resources please contact ghwy@leeds.ac.uk