Are Area Reviews the end of the Generalist FE College? ETF’s David Russell sets the record straight

FE News caught up with Education and Training Foundation chief executive David Russell at the AoC annual conference.

He was part of a debate at the event called: ‘Area Reviews and specialisation – the end of the general FE college?’
The discussion was too interesting not to explore in more detail Click below to hear Russell’s views:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CduQ0f8Ig7c

Russell does not think that Area Reviews and College specialisation spells the end of the general FE college. In fact, he believes specialist colleges that also deliver general services represents a very positive development.

He reflects on the 1999 Specialist Schools programme in comprehensive schools, which initially caused confusion but enabled them to lead with subjects they were proved excellence in delivering, while still delivering a full comprehensive education system.