Higher education short course trial Challenge Competition

Announcing the new funding, OfS chair Lord Wharton said:

‘Higher education plays a vital role in our country’s economic and social prosperity. These new short courses will enable students to study in a way which works for them, rather than committing to a three or four year degree which isn’t for everyone. It is important to break down existing barriers around access to higher education, and these courses help to further add to the diversity of England’s well regarded higher education system.

‘I encourage all universities and colleges to consider applying for this important funding which will help ensure the doors of our universities are open to anyone with the ability to succeed.’

Higher education short course trial: Challenge Competition initial guidance

21st Jul 2021: This competition invites provides to bid for funding to develop higher education short courses at Levels 4-6 in government priority areas. The competition aims to fund the development of courses that help people to re-skill or re-train as well as provide opportunities to progress to full qualifications.

The note below provides initial information for OfS registered providers and other stakeholders, including employers, on the aims of the competition, available funding, an indication of likely competition criteria, and next steps and timelines.

Full bidding guidance, including a bid template, was published 25 August 2021 and should be used when developing bids.

Higher education short course trial – Challenge Competition