All SLN funded research projects were completed in August 2008. Project outcomes will be made available on this website in the near future

Research commissioned by Central Sussex College indicates that employers in the Gatwick Diamond area would welcome increasing the proportion of their staff who are vocationally qualified to level 4 and above. Management and Leadership were skills employers felt their employees often lacked and this could prevent growth of their business.

This project will investigate the views of the relevant Sector Skills Councils, to more clearly define the content requirements for a foundation degree in leadership and management, to specifically meet employer and employee needs.

The routes into a level four leadership and management qualification, from current level 3 vocational and academic qualification provided by Central Sussex College and East Surrey College will be determined. Progression routes from the qualification into higher education will also be clarified, with a particular emphasis on higher education institutions based within the Gatwick Diamond.

Objectives of project:

1. Write a course outline for a Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management, in sufficient detail to achieve accreditation; including modules and guided learning hours. Submit for accreditation after consultation with partners and employers for improvement and modification, to ensure it meets employers and awarding body requirements.
2. Critically review with partner provider, sharing all developed materials. Which will include:
   • Course handbook
   • briefing sheet
   • module outlines
   • quality and internal verification standards
   • credit points
   • progression opportunities, both into and after the FdD
3. Results will be shared with other FE and HE providers, both within and outside of Sussex Learning Network. This will be achieved through the college website and by taking part in the SLN Research Forum and conference.

Email: pclark@centralsussex.ac.uk