Fostering closer working: SLN and Aimhigher Sussex

30 Jan 2007

The Sussex Learning Network (SLN) and Aimhigher Sussex have identified significant benefits to be gained from closer joint working.

Aimhigher Sussex is an outreach organisation which seeks to raise aspirations. It is part of a national initiative to increase participation in higher education. The SLN works with partners across Sussex to increase the opportunities for vocational learners to progress into and through higher education.

With such complementary aims, Aimhigher and the SLN have agreed a number of ways of working more closely on the ground, to develop a more streamlined approach and enhance the delivery of their services.

In January 2007, Chris Baker (Director of the SLN) joined the Aimhigher Sussex Steering group, and Liz Allen (Director of Aimhigher Sussex) joined the SLN curriculum team. These links, together with regular meetings between staff teams, will support joint activity in a number of exciting areas, including:

• joint funding of the Foundation Degrees in Sussex website
• the development of jointly branded information, advice and guidance (IAG) materials on vocational learning opportunities
• joint planning of staff development events for school and college staff
• joint planning of staff development around shared interests, including progression, admissions, and the new 14-19 diplomas.