The waves that the Levy and new Standards caused across the vocational education world now seem like ripples in a pond compared to the tsunami of Covid19.  Yet, the resilience of people in the education sector (along with many others) has been incredible to see. The response of colleagues, colleges and private providers has (in the main) been truly spirited.

@RishiSunak's #Budget2020 - Is this the Budget to 'get it done'? The government will invest £1.5 billion (£1.8 billion including indicative Barnett consequentials) over five years in capital spending to refurbish further education colleges, and has committed to a new £2.5 billion National Skills Fund to improve adult skills (£3 billion including indicative Barnett consequentials).

The @WildlifeTrusts and @The_RHS have launched their annual Wild About Gardens campaign! The Wildlife Trust and RHS are also asking people to pledge a patch for butterflies and moths and plot it on a map. Could this be a simple mental health and well being project for staff or learners? There is also a booklet with practical tips showing people how easy it is to help these delicate garden visitors as they emerge through spring and summer.

@GillianKeegan has now been confirmed as the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Apprenticeships and Skills. Here is the link to the DfE Ministerial portfolio confirmations.

After the recent Cabinet #reshuffle @GillianKeegan was appointed Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Education today (Friday 14th February 2020).