Our team undertook in-depth, semi-structured consultations with staff and Entry/Level 1 students in 15 post-16 education and skills providers across England. The sample intentionally included a concentration of providers who, based on performance data, appeared to be effective at supporting Entry/Level 1 students to achieve Level 2 qualifications. At each provider we consulted with senior managers, recruitment and enrolment teams, academic and pastoral support staff, department heads, teaching staff and students. A total of 200 people consultees contributed to the study.
"It’s a great report, and I’ve submitted it to the Ofsted inspection team." – Strategic Commissioner, local authority
“Thanks for such a thoughtful report. It will be very useful to us and other organisations. Another great job from York Consulting!” Local Authority Director
“Thank you for this very helpful evaluation. I have only received positive feedback on it. It has been great working with you.” Local Authority Head of Service
“Your report was extremely thorough, and I appreciate how responsive you were to our additional requests for analysis.” Government department
“The team at York Consulting were professional and a delight to work with. I am very grateful for their input.” Government department
"Well done – a lot of work in a short space of time and at such high quality.” Sector Skills Council
"Your workshop was extremely well received and enabled managers to gain detailed insight, drawing on your expertise and knowledge.” Senior manager, not-for-profit organisation
"It [YCL’s final report] is one of the most impressive evaluation reports I’ve had the pleasure to read.” Principal, Further Education College
“YCL staff understand our organisation…I have developed a great relationship with them and I hope to work with them again.” Housing Association
“I’ve enjoyed working with you on this project. Thanks for your co-operation and flexibility.” Government department
