2009
New methodology being introduced for 2008/09 success rates
Published:
31 July 2009
The calculation method for learner responsive success rates is being changed for 08/09 – as agreed at the recent meeting of the Data Harmonisation Group.*
One of the key drivers for the change in the calculation of success rates arises from the introduction of demand-led funding in 2008/09. A key element of the changes, which has an impact on success rates, is the definition of a start date for learners for funding purposes.
For 2008/09 this means a change from the traditional approach based on specified census dates, to one based on the amount of time a learner must remain on programme (six weeks for programmes of at least 24 weeks, and lower periods for shorter courses).
Chair of the Data Harmonisation Group, Lesley Davies (LSC), said: “We’re pleased to be able to provide this advice to providers. The change will simplify the process, ensuring consistency between the definition of learner ‘start’ dates used for funding, and those used for assessing quality of provision.”
The expectation is that the success rate results in 08/09 will be broadly comparable with previous years, taking all factors into account. The Harmonisation Group expects the quality of provision to continue to increase as per the trend over previous years and it also expects some change from the introduction of Demand Led Funding. However, the full impact of any changes nationally and locally (at provider and subject area level) won’t exactly be known until the 08/09 data has been analysed following submission of full year data (F05).
Careful consideration is currently being given to producing detailed guidance for Ofsted inspectors and others, so that they take the change in methodology into account when assessing performance. This will assist with the process of monitoring performance over time and ensure that informed judgements are made on a ‘like for like’ basis.
To find out more visit our Learner Responsive methodology FAQs page.
Notes
* Data Harmonisation Group - A report commissioned by the information authority in April 2008 entitled ‘Harmonising Ofsted and LSC Qualification Success Rate Reporting’ showed that individual colleges and providers were puzzled by the array of success rates used by government agencies such as BIS, DCSF, LSC and Ofsted.
The report led to the LSC and Ofsted intensifying existing working arrangements and to the LSC forming the Data Harmonisation Group. The group has representatives from a wide range of agencies - including the information authority, LSC, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) and Ofsted - and is responsible for taking forward work to simplify success rate reporting methodologies and provide greater transparency across the further education and training system.
