Strategic Area Reviews Definition

DEFINITION

1. Strategic Area Reviews (StARS) are nationally standardised investigations carried out at local level into the standard and quality of provision in each area.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

2. The LSC put in place Strategic Area Reviews (StARs) of all LSC funded post-16 learning and skills provision across England in response to Success for All, the Government’s reform strategy for further education and training.

3. The purpose of StARs is to make a fundamental examination of learning provision, both that is currently offered and that is required in each part of the country against:

• the priorities and needs of learners, employers and local communities;
• the need to drive up quality and increase success rates in many areas of provision and to improve its cost effectiveness;
• and the volume and type of education and training needed to meet the LSC’s targets.

LINKS

4. See Circular 0306 Strategic Area Reviews - Arrangements and Guidance for Strategic Area Reviews, Reference CIRC/0702/03 for further information.

Last date modified: 12th November 2008