Digital Baseline, New Report from AoC, Ufi and Jisc Explores Digital Transformation in FE

A new report from the Association of Colleges (AoC) and Ufi, in collaboration with Jisc (Digital baseline: exploring the use of technology in FE), calls for the creation of a core digital skills framework to ensure every student leaves college equipped for the modern workplace.

The recommendation is one of several aimed at embedding technology into teaching, learning and leadership across the further education sector.

Drawing on insights from over 220 FE professionals and in-depth interviews across the country, the report reveals a sector in motion. Colleges are embracing digital tools, from AI tutors to immersive simulations, not just to teach, but to transform. Lessons are becoming more interactive, learning is becoming more personalised and vocational education is becoming more aligned with the modern workplace.

David Hughes, Chief Executive of Association of Colleges, said:

“This report shows that digital technology is no longer a bolt-on to learning, it is the backbone of modern vocational education. Colleges are innovating every day, using tech to teach smarter, support learning, reach further, and prepare students for a fast-changing world. But innovation must be for everyone. That means investment, collaboration, and a shared commitment to digital equity across every college. We are proud to work with Ufi and Jisc to take these recommendations forward and ensure every student, in every college, has the digital skills they need to succeed.”

The joint report sets out practical recommendations under three core themes:

Teaching, learning and the student experience

• Build communities of practice to share what works.
• Work with partners to create a clear, accessible CPD offer.
• Collaborate with college practitioners to co-design a core digital skills framework to ensure every student leaves college ready for the digital world.

Leadership

• Leverage the AoC Technology Reference Group to foster collaboration and reduce duplication.
• Encourage colleges to contribute to AoC Think Further and Research Further, building a stronger evidence base for digital innovation.

Infrastructure

• Embed cybersecurity and safe practice into digital strategies.
• Work with government to ensure equitable access to devices, connectivity and support – with EDI at the heart of delivery.

Anthony Painter, Director of Strategic Engagement at Ufi, said:

“Colleges are right at the centre of the need to ensure that everyone can thrive in a world where technology is increasingly embedded in work, skills and life more widely. It’s so encouraging to see passion and innovation right across the sector. By working with AoC and others, Ufi is aiming to see ethical, human-centred adoption of technology and wider upskilling with digital capabilities across staff and students alike.

“Strong commitment and collaboration across the sector will see technology, adopted responsibly, contributing to student success. And this report lays out some of the avenues through which colleges, working together, can make a real difference to the digital capabilities of the nation. The importance of these capabilities was outlined both in the recent curriculum review and the Skills White paper. And here are some real practical steps in response.”

A roadmap for digital transformation

AoC and Ufi will now use these recommendations to form a roadmap for digital transformation – working in partnership with sector stakeholders as part of their commitment to a multi-year Strategic Partnership.

Initial actions will include:

• Convening a working group of college practitioners to co-design the core digital skills framework.
• Collaborating with partners to scope a sector-wide CPD offer focused on digital confidence and capability.
• Exploring options for a shared digital charter, aligned with DfE guidance and informed by college experience.