What is the applied learning specialism?

With the current developments in 14-19 education and the growth in offering applied courses and new diplomas, there is a growing interest in the applied learning specialism.

Applied learning specialist schools will be expected to champion applied learning excellence by developing and delivering high quality applied and work-related learning. They will do this through developing a network of local partnerships, typically involve other schools, colleges, centres of vocational excellence (CoVEs), training providers, local businesses and employers, and are pivotal within the 14-19 implementation plan.

The applied learning specialism will play a key role in driving up the numbers of young people achieving level 2 qualifications, including English and mathematics, as well as increasing the proportion of young people staying on in education and training post 16 as the system works towards raising the participation age. These schools will focus on the ambition of 'employability for life', improving learners’ aspirations and employability skills and thereby enhancing their life chances.

Currently this option is available to schools in two ways:

• as a High Performing option (see part 5 of the DCSF guidance)
• The HPSS role is outward facing across local partnerships, taking the lead on collaborative provision for a range of applied courses and the lead within Diploma consortia
• or from September 2008 as a combined initial specialism, either for schools new to the specialist system or for schools at the point of redesignation. (see part 1, page 49 onwards of DCSF Guidance.)

This new access to the applied learning specialism will enable a new cohort of schools to play an important role in the 14-19 landscape. Many of these schools, whilst not reaching the HPSS criteria have real depth and strength in applied learning are enthusiastic about contributing to implementation of the reforms and establishing themselves at the heart of local diploma consortium provision.

How many applied learning specialist schools are there to date and where can I see a list?

There are 164 schools confirmed in the first, second and third cohorts of specialist schools and a list is available on this website. These schools begin their funding 2006, 2007 or 2008. The government’s target is for 200 applied learning specialists schools in place by 2008.

How is the applied learning specialism programme being evaluated?

Ongoing evaluation of this programme is carried out by the University of Leeds. Reports produced to date are available here.

How is the SSAT supporting schools interested in the applied learning specialism?

The SSAT has a team of national coordinators and project staff who are contactable through appliedlearning@ssatrust.org.uk who are here to help and advise schools. The programme also has a ream of lead practitioners from applied learning schools who are developing resources and running events to support schools and disseminate best and next practice. The programme also supports regional networks of applied learning schools and any schools interested in the specialism to meet termly to share idea and information.
For more information on any of the above please contact appliedlearning@ssatrust.org.uk or keep an eye on this website where more information will be added throughout the year.