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Skills and economic transformation
The Scottish Funding Council (SFC) is working alongside key regional colleges and universities as well as skills partners to support seven innovative pilot projects now in development in two Pathfinder regions in Scotland.
SFC has invested almost £500,000 to support the development and implementation of new course provision to meet priority needs in the South of Scotland and the North-East of Scotland.
Building on existing collaborative working and rooted in local knowledge and understanding of skills needs, the Pathfinder groups in the two regions have prioritised projects which will have the most impact on securing simpler pathways and improved outcomes for learners.
Through evidence, analysis, and collaborative action, the Pathfinders are taking a ‘learning by doing’ approach to understand how SFC can make the education and skills system more responsive, integrated, and supportive of economic recovery and inclusive growth in each region.
The Pathfinder programme was a key recommendation of the SFC Review of Coherent Provision and Sustainability which was subsequently endorsed by the Scottish Government.
The pilots are currently in the development and testing phase with delivery of new course provision and pathways expected from August 2023 onwards. The regional pilots will inform potential system improvement and develop expectations, guidance and good practice for the tertiary education system around skills planning and delivery.