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STRATEGIC PLANNING DOCUMENT: 2018-2023

Empowerment through learning strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 05/03/2019 11:30 Page 2

CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION 03 - 13 Our Processes and Planned Execution 22 - 23 Message from our Principal and Chief Executive 03 Message from our Chair of Corporation 04 5. FULL AND PART-TIME ADULT SKILLS Aims to 2023 - Academic 04 LEARNERS 24 - 27 Aims to 2023 - Resources & Services 05 Context 24 - 25 Core Values 05 Alignment with the LEP and Skills Education Plan 25 Re-aligning our Goals and Key Objectives 06 Our Full-time Alumni - Where Are They Now? 26 Ofsted - Key Extracts 07 Vision 26 Vocational Curriculum Overview 08 Our Processes and Planned Execution 27 Enhanced Employer Responsiveness 09 Financial Health and Stability 10 - 11 Marketing Overview 12 6. APPRENTICESHIPS AND WORK-BASED Quality and Staff Development 12 LEARNING 28 - 33 Human Resources Development 13 Context 28 - 29 Alignment with the LEP and Skills Education Plan 29 2. REGIONAL LEARNER DEMOGRAPHY 14 - 15 Our Full-time Alumni - Where Are They Now? 30 Macclesfield Town Region - School Leaver Vision 30 - 31 Numbers to 2023 14 Our Planned Strategic Outputs to 2023 32 Wider East Cheshire Region - School Leaver Our Processes and Planned Execution 32 - 33 Numbers to 2023 15 7. HIGHER EDUCATION 34 - 39 3. STRATEGIC INPUT AND OUTPUTS 16 - 17 Context 34 - 35 Strategic Inputs and Outputs 16 Alignment with the LEP and Skills Education Plan 35 Stakeholder and Employer Quotes 17 Our Full-time Alumni - Where Are They Now? 36 Vision 36 - 37 4. FULL-TIME LEARNERS - AGED 16 TO 18 18 - 23 Our Planned Strategic Outputs to 2023 38 Our Processes and Planned Execution 38 - 39 Context 18 - 19 Alignment with the LEP and Skills Education Plan 19 Our Full-time Alumni - Where Are They Now? 20 8. REGIONAL PROVIDER ANALYSIS 40 - 47 Vision 20 - 21 Selected statistics from the College’s Our Planned Strategic Outputs to 2023 22 Vector local marketing intelligence tool strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 12:27 Page 3 INTRODUCTION

Thank you for taking the time to read the Macclesfield College Strategic continuing to transform and change lives Plan for 2018-23. throughout the community we serve, by being fully committed to our overarching I am proud to continue to lead Macclesfield College - a further and higher mission of “empowerment through education institution that is truly vocational - as it advances on its journey to learning”. becoming ‘Outstanding’ in all aspects. Although it is important for the College The past three years represent a landmark period for Macclesfield College. as a whole to recognise and reflect on Not only have we realised the ambitious and demanding objectives we set how far we have come in such a brief ourselves to achieve back in 2015 with the publication of our previous strategic period of time since my arrival, it is now plan, but we have also emerged from this watershed term as one of the North absolutely critical that we now focus on West’s established leaders in the provision of high quality further and higher the next exciting leg of our journey here education. This is especially pleasing given the perpetually challenging and at Macclesfield College, as we edge ever constrained economic climate in which colleges, like ours, continue to operate. closer towards our collective goal of Moreover, we have accomplished our objectives in consummate style, receiving becoming ‘Outstanding’ together. numerous award nominations, industry accolades and accreditations along the The coming five years will undoubtedly see us way. Perhaps the most notable of these came in 2016, when we were officially continue to face considerable and exacting Rachel Kay CMgr FCMI recognised as the number one college in Cheshire for both employer and learner challenges; financially, our beleaguered sector Principal and Chief Executive satisfaction, in a survey undertaken by leading industry publication, FE Week. is struggling to successfully navigate through these difficult times. That said, Of course, our crowning achievement since my arrival in summer everyone here at Macclesfield College is looking to the future with a good 2015, came in November 2017 when our most recent Ofsted report degree of optimism, that additional funding will reach what is a vital and confirmed our hard-earned and richly deserved status as a ‘Good’ well-deserving sector that transforms lives and supports local economies. college. To have come such a long way in such a short space of time - a little To date, our hard work, commitment and dedication to the task has seen us develop over three years - is a truly momentous and notable success of which I am and deliver high quality, enterprise-driven learning to people of all socio-economic extremely proud. Particularly in the manner in which it was realised, with staff backgrounds and abilities. What’s more, our award-nominated apprenticeship and senior management alike working tirelessly and collaboratively to ensure programmes - devised and coordinated by our employer-responsive arm, Maxim that we significantly improved our standing in the tremendously competitive Business Training - have been highly successful in ensuring that courses, based on Cheshire region. national standards, have been implemented with precision and skill, valued by Here at Macclesfield College, we embrace diversity and see the needs and employers and met with local, regional and, indeed, national skills needs. aspirations of our students as being central to every single decision we make. This strategic plan - written and designed to cover the period 2018 to 2023 - sets We take our responsibilities as an FE, HE and skills training provider extremely out how we will ensure our long-term sustainability, whilst holding firm to our core seriously and, through our work, we give access to high quality learning to mission and values. Whether you are a member of staff, a student or a friend of each and every student. This is complemented by a proven pathway to success Macclesfield College, I look forward to working with you over the next five years through our outstanding teaching and pedagogy. Furthermore, we are and, together, experiencing and sharing in the further success of our local college. 3 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 01/03/2019 10:59 Page 4

A MESSAGE FROM AIMS TO 2023 - ACADEMIC OUR CHAIR OF THE to be judged by Ofsted as officially ‘Outstanding’. to achieve a cohesive, workable innovation strategy and investment programme - to achieve growth (in terms of learner targeting the local economy. CORPORATION numbers in HE, apprenticeships and traditional 16 to 18), Macclesfield College is to future-proof our ability to deliver the new Despite all of our success here over the past three targeting a capacity of 1500 full-time learners. T-Level strategy and to be agile in delivering years, standing still is never an option here at to have access to industry-relevant staff who new Government initiatives. Macclesfield College. understand the pedagogy required to stretch each individual learner to their fullest potential. to map and align local business to College We need to become even more embedded in the curriculum innovation that demonstrates community we are here to serve, working at all to ensure the achievement rates of our most employer-led provision. Macclesfield levels to ensure we deliver outstanding education vulnerable learners are in line with all other College will continue to work with key and learning for everyone. learners enrolled at the College. regional organisations and industry, in support of our plan. We want to create a college that is ‘the place’ for to be fully aligned with the Gatsby measures work-based learning; a place that students and the for careers progression. to move our Adult learning provision to wider community alike recognise as inspirational, to provide a high quality tutorial provision ‘Outstanding’ by 2023, helping to ensure and where people want to come as their first the needs of our community are met, choice. that prepares our learners to be tomorrow’s global citizens. including better progression to employment, an improved Level 2 offer and enhanced Furthermore, we want to build on our previous to continue to ensure a layer of support for career guidance. achievements in creating an environment where learners such as tutorial coaches, learning young people not only achieve academically, but mentors, counsellors, careers advisors, plus to ensure that the East Cheshire region will also grow as individuals in terms of personal and the relevant external agencies, so that recognise Macclesfield College as the first social development. learners can achieve their maximum potential. choice for Higher Education, by 2023. Moreover, we want to reach a target of 1,000 apprentices on to be regionally recognised and valued so as to build on our programme by 2023 via Maxim Business achievements in to achieve the TEF ‘Silver’ standard, enabling Training, our dedicated employer-responsive us to develop a suite of bespoke degree- creating a stable arm. environment in level qualifications that mirror the real needs which people not to achieve outstanding status for our of the regional economy. only can achieve apprenticeships vision here at Macclesfield academically, but College, again via Maxim Business Training. to develop a culture within our staff of also grow as scholarly excellence, encouraging them individuals. Mark Sharples - to achieve a level of leadership & management to present and disseminate their research Chair of the Corporation that is unrivalled in the FE and HE sector. where applicable. 4 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 06/03/2019 14:32 Page 5 AIMS TO 2023 - RESOURCES & SERVICES CORE VALUES to be financially outstanding and sustainable, every partnership and opportunity to serve with a £2 million cash balance by 2023. our community. INTEGRITY We benefit from an open, honest to have a staff cost to income ratio of 65 to to be both proactive and reactive in regard to and transparent approach. This, 68%, through effective budget planning, change and innovation in the FE and HE sector, combined with our strong moral staff utilisation and team structures. thus ensuring employability has a strong principles, will ensure further thread throughout our provision. to provide fit-for-purpose College Estates and positive progress to 2023. Resources which match the ambition of the to be central to the community we serve – curriculum, and ensure that learners have particularly in terms of the regeneration of RESPECT access to excellent resources and technology. the Macclesfield area and the College’s Listening to the needs of all outreach to the community. stakeholders and treating to achieve a departmental income for Maxim them at all times with dignity, Business Training, in excess of £2 million. to achieve genuine and demonstrable community cohesion that places the College honour and tolerance which is to build and enhance a highly responsive at the centre of local skills strategies – for paramount going forward. and diverse marketing function that aligns both short and long-term needs. to the regional demography, ensuring PASSION opportunities are executed to achieve the to continue to recognise student welfare, Our collective and relentless number of applications for each funding mental health and support for learners, drive for excellence in everything stream of the College. offering a fully inclusive College that is we do, is central to us achieving vocationally focused to providing tomorrow’s our ambitious development to create a framework of community and global citizens. plans to 2023. employer opportunities in the local region to harness greater cohesion in the area, to achieve a resilient, progressive and dynamic ACCOUNTABILITY such as dual branding, sponsorship and workforce. Attracting, retaining and developing board representation, thereby ensuring the best staff with leading CPD. We are committed to taking full that Macclesfield College is fully utilising to become the College of choice to work for. responsibility for our actions as an education and training provider, and dedicated to reporting regularly THE MISSION “Empowerment through learning” to the relevant bodies. After much deliberation from staff and senior management alike, it has been decided that we AMBITION retain our existing mission statement - “Empowerment through learning”, as we plot our Our overriding ethos focuses journey to becoming a recognised regional and national centre of excellence in Higher Education on genuine innovation and a and, ultimately, an “Outstanding” college as defined by Ofsted. It has served us extremely well demonstrable ambition to be to date and has helped to reinforce our central message to learners across East Cheshire - that the best education and training learning enables us all to better ourselves both personally and professionally, and contribute to provider in our region... and the economy and long-term prosperity of the dynamic East Cheshire region. beyond.

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LOOKING ON TO RE-ALIGNING OUR GOALS AND KEY FIVE MORE YEARS OBJECTIVES FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS Key to us achieving our ambitious targets to 2023, will be an unflinching determination and steely resolve on the part of everyone connected with Macclesfield College, to work together OF SUCCESS... and ensure that we all adhere to a set of pre-defined and inter-related set of basic principles. In order for us to be judged as officially 1. To live and demonstrate the College’s values daily, and strive to deliver our mission in all ‘Outstanding’ by 2023, Macclesfield College that we do. will have realised achievement rates that Our path to becoming outstanding will be reinforced by us living and breathing our central mission exceed provider rate averages across the statement - empowerment through learning. A key part of our immediate strategy in this area is entire curriculum offer. to achieve national recognition as a specialist in a particular area of educational or skills training. 2. To work in a culture that’s striving to be the best for the College and all of its learners, In order to drive our proven service standards to inspiring and showing them the pathways to success. even greater heights, 90% of our teaching and Our new, dedicated Learner Experience Team will play a key role in ensuring this is achieved, by training will be judged as either ‘good’ or ‘better’ providing young people with first-class learning advice and Information Advice and Guidance (IAG), by the end of the proceeding five-year period, delivered in tandem with exciting new courses ranging from Management to Motor Vehicle. leading to the vast majority of our learners achieving at or above their target grades. 3. To provide a sustainable and stable college environment for the region, through strong strategic and financial acumen. On leaving Macclesfield College, it is envisaged A stable college environment will be further established and realised through a programme of that our alumni will then be progressing into prudent investment and financial rationalisation, to ensure the limited budget we have is spent vocationally relevant further training, education on the most vital parts of our infrastructure. or employment in the Cheshire and Warrington region, thereby making their contribution to the 4. Embracing change with an open-minded approach for the good of the College, exploring north of England’s largest and most vibrant opportunities and possibilities with a progressive attitude. economy. Our responsiveness to change and proven adaptability as an FE and HE organisation will stand us in excellent stead, as we seek to expand our provision in key areas, such as Maxim commencing Lastly, we are to launch a regional delivery programme. aiming to ensure that 100% of our 5. To diversify and adapt our offer and provide unique and higher level qualifications that learners will be meet the immediate, short, medium and long-term goals of the East Cheshire region. benefiting from We have worked tirelessly to secure industry-leading strategic partnerships, pathways to employment high quality, with Job Centre Plus and high-profile representation with key bodies such as SEMTA and the AoC. meaningful work 6. To continue to attract, retain and develop outstanding staff to provide the best quality experience Andrea Murphy - service to its learners, employers and the wider audience. placements, by College Vice Principal for Curriculum The ongoing recruitment of the right individuals and, most importantly, the retention of their services 2023. & Quality. through proper remuneration and benefits, is key to keeping us on the fast-track to excellence. 6 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 17:25 Page 7

NOVEMBER 2017: KEY EXTRACTS KEY FIGURES LEARNERS 1157 “College leaders have fostered a culture of “Learners and apprentices are well prepared At the close of Academic Year high expectations... and are ambitious for the for life and work in modern Britain.” 2017/18, there were a total of College. They successfully communicate their 1157 full-time learners aged 16 vision, which is understood and shared by staff. “Learners benefit from very good, impartial to 18 enrolled at Macclesfield A consistent expectation of high standards, and careers advice.” College. shared college values, underpin their focus on improvement.” “Learners have good relationships with their teachers and their peers.” ADULT LEARNERS 2222 Despite a prevailing climate of “The proportion of learners who achieve their “Learners enthusiastically celebrate diversity; qualifications is now high. Learners make swift budgetary constraints and enforced they treat each other with respect and work cut-backs in this vital area, full progress. The standards of their written work together harmoniously.” and the development of technical skills are and part-time adult learning programmes at Macclesfield good.” “Learners benefit from well-planned and College are among the best meaningful work-related learning, external attended in the entire region. “Learners benefit from high-quality external work experience and enrichment activities.” work experience.” “Learners behave well, take pride in their APPRENTICES 419 “Apprenticeships are implemented skilfully, learning and produce work of a high standard.” In spite of the ongoing uncertainty and meet local, regional and national skills that is currently encircling the “Highly-skilled teachers and good links to needs.” apprenticeships sector here in industry.” the UK since the introduction of the Levy, Macclesfield College is “An extensive enrichment programme “Learners develop highly effective practical and bucking the national trend of develops learners’ practical, social and vocational skills that prepare them well for decline in this key area for the personal skills. Learners benefit from guest the workplace.” speaker visits, additional workshops and future of the UK’s economy. trips to industry settings. Learners regularly “Leaders and managers have established compete in - and often win - awards at strong links with local employers and many HIGHER EDUCATION 82 national competitions.” employers seek to employ learners on Macclesfield College serves a completion of their courses.” broadly affluent area in one of “Support for learners is highly effective. As a the UK’s most commercially result, learners such as care leavers and those “Employers are integral to the planning of dynamic regions. Therefore, HE with high needs, mental health difficulties or apprenticeship programmes that are closely remains a key focus for the other significant barriers to learning complete aligned to the needs of their business and College, and further growth is their courses to achieve their qualifications.” the apprentice.” predicted in the next five years. 7 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 01/03/2019 11:05 Page 8

SERVING THE VOCATIONAL CURRICULUM OVERVIEW REGION’S GROWING Macclesfield College is unique in that it has a full ability to take the next steps with confidence. vocational curriculum offer across all levels of Often this is due to the enrichment opportunities ECONOMY... study. they receive whilst they are with us. Whether it At Macclesfield College, we offer a vibrant This means that all learners are being prepared is the prestige of becoming World Skills finalists, and varied vocational curriculum that meets for the world of work, by highly qualified industry as our media students experienced this year, or the needs of the East Cheshire region... and specialists with access to cutting-edge professional our public services learners experiencing life in beyond. developments. This ensures our students have the an army training camp, there is never a dull competitive edge when applying for jobs, degree- moment. For our learners to progress and optimise their level courses (whether at university, or those offered employability and career potential, it is vital that The creativity of our students is something of by Macclesfield College) or higher apprenticeships. we encourage them to aim for excellence in their which we are particularly proud and seeing our vocational choices, whilst also ensuring that they At the College, we pride ourselves on the richness talented performing arts and musicians taking gain a comprehensive and relevant skills set to get of our curriculum. Whether a student wishes to part in the Barnaby festival, along with our them fully work-ready in an ever more competitive specialise in an occupational trade such as joinery, fashion students displaying their creations at jobs marketplace. hair & beauty or hospitality and catering, we have the local town hall, was a fitting end to another the ideal course to help them take that first step successful year. Our region benefits from a diverse and dynamic on the career ladder. One of our key specialisms industry base, with engineering and manufacturing is our wide-ranging engineering courses; in fact, both playing pivotal roles in establishing the north Progression to Positive Destinations we are one of the only colleges nationally to of England’s strongest economy. The Cheshire and offer aeronautical engineering. Our data shows ‘positive’ destinations for the Warrington sub-region is responsible for around overall College at the end of 2016/17 as very 25% of the North West’s total manufacturing output. It is not just the quality of our provision that sets high, at 98%. This evidences good teaching Particular strengths also lie in chemicals, finance and us apart from our competitors, but also the world- and learning and the development of business services and logistics and distribution, with class work experience that every single one of our appropriate work-related learning and key growth potential students engages in each year they study with us. enrichment opportunities which have prepared also being identified Some of the prestigious placements this year with learners for their intended next stage in their in the agritech and companies such as Mercedes Benz, AstraZeneca learning and/or career. digital sectors. and Angry Birds have led to our students securing work placements at the end of their course; so Our challenge is to The College’s Management Information impressed have employers been with the align the skills of our Services department will initiate a data professional attitude and commitment instilled learners with the collection exercise, contacting our alumni in all of our students. precise needs of the within six months of them leaving Macclesfield, regional economy we Chantelle Dewberry - We are lucky to have access to exceptional facilities in order to ascertain their specific destinations. serve, to stimulate Assistant College Principal and, whether students are studying IT, business or This will be achieved via various different continued growth. for Vocational Studies science they leave Macclesfield College with the methods of information capture. 8 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 06/03/2019 14:41 Page 9

ENHANCED EMPLOYER RESPONSIVENESS TOP MARKS Published annually by Since the Levy was introduced - along with the most recent Ofsted report. New provision has the Department for new Apprenticeship reforms - it has been a been introduced over the past year, including HR Education, these league challenging time, with providers having to gain apprenticeships, lab technicians and higher level tables measure School approval on the Register of Apprenticeship management programmes. Maxim continues to And College performance against key criteria, and Providers, bidding for non-Levy contracts with look at further development of its apprenticeship sit at the heart of the Government’s accountability the ESFA, along with the process of the Digital offer, and there is particular emphasis around framework regarding education, skills and training. healthcare. We are currently working with both Account Service. Macclesfield General Hospital and The Royal CONSISTENTLY HITTING OUR

As part of the reforms, all apprentices are required Manchester Hospital for new apprenticeship DEMANDING TARGETS to spend a minimum of 20% off the job, and pathways for clinical staff. This includes the Macclesfield College has continued employers who do not pay the Levy are required maternity apprenticeships at Level 3 and on its three-year trend of ongoing to contribute 10% of the total training cost Healthcare Science Associate at Level 4. progress and improvement in key negotiated. Teaching and Learning KPI’s. A recent report by an independent non-party think Maxim Business Training tank has confirmed that the reforms implemented is the dedicated employer SUSTAINED EXCELLENCE IN have been harsh, and are having a negative impact responsive division of the APPLIED LEARNING on apprenticeship numbers nationally (April - October College, providing a broad and diverse range of 2017 was 40% lower than the previous year). vocational and first-rate apprenticeship courses to We are now officially the best- local learners and businesses alike, all delivered performing FE College in the whole However, due to successfully gaining supplier within a relaxed and productive environment of Cheshire for delivering Applied approval for a number of large Levy payers and centred on high quality learning. Maxim is well- General Qualifications. the excellent relationships Maxim Business known and widely respected throughout our (source DfE League Tables - Nov. 17) Training has forged with our local employers, region and, through it, we work with some of

the department is continuing to grow its East Cheshire’s largest and most influential CHESHIRE’S LEADING COLLEGE

apprentice numbers. employers, including AstraZeneca, the East FOR 16-TO-19 YEAR-OLDS Cheshire NHS Trust and Lucideon. As a result of the This Academic Year, there are 242 apprentices due strong links forged regionally by Maxim - and the Macclesfield is now also the leading to complete their apprenticeship, compared to 188 comprehensive employer engagement undertaken College in Cheshire for providing last year, and just 115 in Academic Year 2015-16. to date - we have been immensely successful in Technical Level Qualifications.

expanding and transforming our apprenticeships (source DfE League Tables - Nov. 17) The department has effectively moved most of its apprenticeship programmes from frameworks to provision, to include new programmes that meet OFFICIALLY A GRADE 2 PROVIDER standards, to ensure our apprenticeship offer employer needs head-on and deliver opportunities effectively meets the needs of our employers, to young people, once they have completed full- Macclesfield is now also officially a and this was positively acknowledged during our time education programmes. ‘Good’ College. 9 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 06/03/2019 14:45 Page 10

FUTURE-PROOFING THE COLLEGE AND FINANCIAL HEALTH AND STABILITY In terms of expenditure, finance and overall Secondly, in terms of overall business solvency, ITS FINANCIAL HEALTH economic solidity, Macclesfield College has we will be adjusting our current ratio of greater been a consistently strong performer over than - or equal to 1.6. Thirdly, we will be Over the past three years, Macclesfield College the past three years. enhancing our operational performance across the board, with education-specific earnings has grown to become one of the region’s before interest, tax, depreciation and most dynamic and resilient FE and HE The College was officially rated as strong for Financial Health, in 2016-17. amortisation (EBITDA) of greater than, or institutions. equal to, 8%. Academically and vocationally, the College has The College has grown and diversified its Our ultimate ambition of being demonstrably achieved at a consistently high level, and this 16 to 18 provision, for 2017-18 with financially ‘Outstanding’ will also be realised by impressive rate of progress has been matched by partners. us achieving a minimum surplus position (after our continued passion for growth. The College has doubled the numbers of interest, depreciation, tax and amortisation learning hours by students. costs). Likewise, it will be successfully achieved As the college directly serving East Cheshire, it is by us reaching our planned and targeted our duty to continue providing a stimulating and Looking forward to 2023, Macclesfield income growth over the next five years. stable learning and training environment that College will strive to be ‘Outstanding’ benefits people of all abilities and socio-economic Through detailed and unrelenting scrutiny, regarding all aspects of finance, with a backgrounds. underpinned by effective framework methods cash balance of £2 million. of procurement, we will be able to achieve the Through strategic engagements and partnerships By 2023, it is also anticipated that we will required efficiencies in the College’s overall expenditure, whilst maintaining and enhancing with key local employers and organisations, such have achieved a staff cost to income ratio the quality of service on which we rightly pride as Cheshire East Council and the Cheshire and of 65-68%. Warrington LEP, ourselves. we will continue By 2023, we will have provided fit-for- In terms of us accomplishing our projected staff to strive for strong purpose College Estate and Resources that financial health cost to income ratio of 65-68%, effective and match the ambition of the curriculum and thorough budget planning will be key, as will in the face of these ensure that learners have access to challenging times. detailed sensitivity analysis in order to drive excellent resources and technology. positive outcomes for the College.

To achieve our overarching goal of becoming truly Our challenging target of 65-68% staff cost Lynn French - financially ‘Outstanding’, we will be reaching and to income ratio will also be realised by astute Vice Principal for realising a set of key financial indicators. Firstly, and effective utilisation of staffing (minimum Finance and Resources a percentage debt over income level of under 20%. staff utilisation of 98%). 10 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 12:56 Page 11

HAPPY CAMPUS

Likewise, we will be employing and implementing This will also be complemented by a broad- Macclesfield College is an empowering, inspirational effective and efficient staffing structures throughout based, long-term maintenance plan aimed at us and stimulating environment that’s committed to the College, all of which will be fully benchmarked protecting and enhancing our assets and facilities, helping learners of all abilities and socio-economic with the education sector. here at Macclesfield College. backgrounds to reach their maximum potential.

In order to develop, implement and establish a Considerable challenges, however, lie ahead if fully fit-for-purpose College Estates and Resources the region is to continue to maintain its economic We’re officially a ‘Good’ College. programme that accurately mirrors our ambitions, output and productivity in the longer term, with

caters to the demands of our new curriculum and an ageing workforce, widening skills gaps and We’ve achieved the QAA standard ensures our learners enjoy unfettered access to mismatches with employer needs all remaining for Higher Education. first-rate resources and technologies, we will be key issues for the Cheshire and Warrington devising and launching a 5-year accommodation region. strategy. We’ve got a great team that just

Our aim is to create a state-of-the-art campus No.1 in Cheshire for loves to teach. Learner & Employer This comprehensive and tailored strategy will Satisfaction that will become a recognised centre of be focused on the consolidation of our off-site excellence for academic, vocational and provision of Motor Vehicle training onto our 97% of learners start work, move skills training in the county of Cheshire state-of-the-art campus. on to apprenticeships, higher and the wider North West region by 2023, education or a higher level course by investing into our facilities and equipment. Likewise, we have aspirations to build a new with us. Construction and Built Environment training Lastly, we are committed to building and centre - again on campus - in collaboration maintaining an IT infrastructure within the 97% of our learners would with key strategic partners, to provide first-class, professional skills training and apprenticeships in College, that meets the current and future recommend a course to their friends. this buoyant and dynamic industry sector. needs of our learners. We’re among the best apprenticeship We have also recently added and launched a new As a further and higher education provider, we providers in the area, with success Animal Care & Management facility, from where fully appreciate that our Information Technology above the national benchmark. we will providing specialist courses that deliver provision needs to be at the cutting edge and core knowledge of areas such as health, nutrition, this will be achieved as a priority, despite the ongoing budget constraints affecting the behaviour, communication and general maintenance. We’re passionate about getting our education sector. The sale of excess land on and around our campus students ready for work. More than will also be an essential part of us comfortably 500 learners took part in work reaching our new College resources strategy by 2023. experience during 2017-18. 11 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 01/03/2019 11:20 Page 12

HELPING US TO QUALITY AND STAFF DEVELOPMENT REACH OUR CORE Over the past three years, the College has fostered 100% of Higher Education learners agree a culture of excellence, thanks to first-class staff that exams and tests are well organised. AUDIENCE AND... development practices. Over the past three years, 98% of Higher Education learners agree that Macclesfield College has December 2017: Staff Engagement Survey the rooms they use are suitable for the course. benefited greatly from well- Staff engagement increased from 34% in 2016/ OVERVIEW planned, multi-platform 17 to 70% in 2017/18 (representing a 36% It is a primary aim of Macclesfield College to marketing activity, which has been successful increase). Strong, positive responses included continue to attract, retain and develop outstanding in re-establishing the College’s reputation the following: staff to provide the best quality service to all of our and re-inforcing our central position to the learners, employer partners and key stakeholders. 99% of staff support the mission statement. community we serve. By 2023, we will have developed one of the As part of our five-year strategic plan to 2023, we 99% of staff support the strategic aims/ region’s most experienced, professional, proactive are now looking to build and enhance a highly objectives. and reactive staff base working within the FE and responsive and diverse marketing function to HE sector, by complementing our existing and benefit the College and help ensure we reach 96% of staff agree that Macclesfield College valued team members with top quality, highly our core markets with even greater efficiency going is a friendly place to work. qualified recruits including Mentors, Faculty forward. Heads, Programme Leaders, Quality Managers February 2018: Student Engagement and Adult Education specialists. This focused new strategy will be aligned precisely with the region’s demography, to ensure that future For the mid-year (February) surveys, learner As a College, we benefit from strong leadership, opportunities and routes to market are executed to engagement increased from 45% in 16/17 to clarity of purpose, exemplary values, fully their maximum extent, in order to achieve the 82% in 2017/18 (37% increase). transparent management processes and, above appropriate number of applications for each funding all, open and effective channels of communication. stream of the College. 91% of full-time learners agree that vocational Over the next five years, we are looking to take course teachers help develop their maths skills. our levels of team work, shared vision and Detailed analysis using market intelligence to cohesion to the next level, in order to achieve a build annual strategies that will maximise footfall 97% of full-time learners agree that teachers level of leadership, management, teaching and and applications to ensure maximum output. encourage them to behave well & work hard. training that’s unmatched anywhere in the FE and HE sector. Adopting a college-wide approach towards 98% of part-time learners agree that the understanding learner needs with a curriculum feedback they get on their assessments is This will assist Macclesfield College in becoming offer that appeals and aligns to the current and helpful. both proactive and reactive with regard to change future workforce. and innovation within the sector, whilst helping 98% of part-time learners agree that the to ensure that Macclesfield’s talent pool aligns (continued on opposite page, Column 3) teachers know their subjects well. seamlessly with the Cheshire and Warrington LEP. 12 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 13:04 Page 13

HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ... ESTABLISH THE COLLEGE AS A TRUE STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES Workforce Survey Data for England which reported that 4.7% of FE staff disclosed having a disability. The College’s HR strategic objectives inform, shape, develop and contribute to how the College approaches, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: REGIONAL LEADER addresses and responds to the drivers that influence Equality, Diversity and Inclusion remains at the Adopting a college-wide approach to optimising its business goals to be an ‘Outstanding Learning forefront of all of the College’s recruitment activities. application to conversion into full and part-time Provider’ and ‘Employer of Choice.’ At all times, the In November 2017, the College confirmed its students, ensuring good value for money and College aims to instil a high-performance culture commitment to the Equality and Human Rights appreciable return on investment. which attracts and retains the ‘best staff’, and has Commission’s ‘Working Forward’ pledge. in place the conditions and structures to enable all Mental Health Awareness: staff to strive for high performance to fulfil their Macclesfield College’s new marketing function career ambitions in a College that challenges and A further College initiative has seen NCFE Mental will create a framework of community and supports them in their development. This will be Health Awareness certified training offered to employer opportunities in the local region. This continued into 2023. staff to develop an increased awareness for staff is intended to harness enhanced cohesion in of the symptoms and effects of mental health. the area, and will take the form of dual-branding, ORGANISATIONAL PROFILE Disability Confident Employer: sponsorships and board-level representation, to Staffing Complement: The College has, since gaining accreditation in ensure that we are utilising every available The College’s current staff population is 31% male 2016 as a Disability Confident Employer, been partnership and possible opportunity to serve and 69% female, which correlates neatly with proud to promote its continuing commitment to our local community. the wider education sector gender ratios. Whilst removing barriers, increasing understanding and education sector trends evidence nationally a higher ensuring that disabled people have opportunities Macclesfield College will strive to communicate ratio of male to female employees working in senior to fulfil their potential and realise their aspirations. our marketing outcomes and progress annually management roles, Macclesfield College counters to key stakeholders and the business and local Talent Management: this trend with 70.5% of the College management/ communities alike, in the form of a yearly executive roles undertaken by females. Talent assessment and review continues to afford communications strategy. staff with opportunities to progress and develop Staff Ethnicity: through promotion, secondment, coaching, Building a robust and sustainable marketing Staff ethnicity is 95.4% White British, 2.8% Asian mentoring, shadowing and enrichment of roles. and communications infrastructure, to facilitate and 1.8% Other. The ethnicity ratios for the Cheshire Beacon Teachers (Magic Weavers): East demographic in respect of White British and enhanced public relations and enable good news Asian ethnicity mirror the College’s ratios. The College has introduced Beacon Teachers (Magic to infiltrate the world outside College. This is Weavers). Magic Weavers are ‘outstanding teachers’ to help ensure that current and newsworthy Staff Advising of a Disability: who assist new and existing staff to also become information is always channelled in an accurate, The total number of staff advising of a disability outstanding teachers by further developing and efficient and timely manner, in order to at the time of reporting was 4.72%. This implementing innovative teaching and learning effectively celebrate, promote and publicise complements the findings of the FE College resources. the success of our learners. 13 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 06/03/2019 14:49 Page 14

REGIONAL LEARNER DEMOGRAPHY

Here at Macclesfield College, we will be adapting our overall offer over the next 5 years to fit the demography of the town and its surrounding area over the corresponding period. Over the next 5 years, we see the town of Macclesfield itself grow and dip in demographics.

Macclesfield Town Region - School Leaver Numbers to 2023

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Conversely, its outer areas will be growing significantly to 2023, and Macclesfield College will diversify our offer and align our marketing strategy accordingly. This will be in order to maximise learner numbers and achieve our forecast yearly targets, on each dedicated income stream.

Wider East Cheshire Region - School Leaver Numbers to 2023

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STRATEGIC INPUTS AND OUTPUTS

STRATEGIC INPUTS STRATEGIC OUTPUTS

A comprehensive, diverse and responsive curriculum that is tailored We were successful in enrolling a total of 1157 16-to-18 year-olds on to the precise skills needs of local businesses. our full-time courses by the beginning of Academic Year 2017/18.

Ambitious strategic plans to develop facilities and resources for new We made considerable improvements to our achievement rates across apprenticeships, particularly in building technologies. our main study programme for 16 to 18 year-olds. It was up from 86.4% in 2015/16, to 90.4% by the end of Academic Year 2017/18. Clear progression routes to advanced and higher level skills programmes. Despite 2015 to 2018 being an incredibly difficult time for adult The quality of teaching, learning and assessment across Macclesfield education, we continued to maintain a high quality provision in this College. key area, and remain one of the region’s leading providers.

Excellent strategic partnerships with the regional business community, Learner satisfaction within our adult education programmes is local authority, influential commercial bodies and the Local Enterprise consistently high, and 2,222 individuals were enrolled on these Partnership (LEP). courses by the close of Academic Year 2017/18.

A highly successful apprenticeships programme that’s grown by 150% Our employer-responsive arm Maxim Business Training is now firmly since the publication of our previous strategic plan in 2015. established as a leading provider of apprenticeships here in East Cheshire, rated Grade 2 “Good” by Ofsted in our latest inspection in November A concerted and well-planned, multi-platform marketing strategy. 2017.

State-of-the-art campus, benefiting from first-rate facilities and learning Maxim has effectively moved all of our apprenticeship programmes resources. from traditional frameworks to high quality standards, to ensure our apprenticeship offer effectively meets the needs of our local employer The College has instilled a high-performance culture where all staff to base. strive to fulfil their career ambitions in an environment that challenges and supports them in their development. Since the publication of our previous Strategic Plan Document in 2015, Macclesfield College has successfully met ‘UK Expectations’ across all Leadership and management across our challenging curriculum areas is areas of higher education, with several areas of good practice being highly effective. identified by the QAA review team.

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STAKEHOLDER & EMPLOYER QUOTES

“Macclesfield College always provides “Macclesfield College is, by nature, “Macclesfield College has the human an open door, and is absolutely a forward-thinking institution that touch, and is totally committed to determined to engage with the provides a valuable opportunity for work closely with businesses like community it seems proud to serve.” the region’s young people.” ours, with regard to first-class

Trevor Langston - South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce Kevin Green - Chief Executive of Macclesfield apprenticeships provision.” and the Macclesfield Pledge. Town Football Club. Andy Gray - Training Manager, Proseal UK

“Through innovative and enterprising “Every community needs a successful “I have been impressed by the degree initiatives, it is great to see the College college. It’s as simple as that. Macclesfield to which the College engages with linking to Macclesfield, opening the College is driving personal, social and issues affecting the wider Macclesfield town to students to make their mark.” economic transformation in East Cheshire.” community, demonstrating commitment

Neil Puttick - Local Councillor for David Hughes - Chief Executive, to the long-term prospects of students Macclesfield’s South Ward, Macclesfield Association of Colleges. and the town as a whole.” Town Council. Jo Wise - Strategic Regeneration Manager North, Cheshire East Council.

“Macclesfield College is a first-rate “With the help of Macclesfield College, “Macclesfield College plays a critical Further and Higher Education institution we are inspiring young people into role. Not only does it provide educational that is fully committed to its students healthcare careers, with an elite training and vocational support and training for and maintains education’s place as a programme combining academic people to develop their potential, it also doorway into the world of work.” excellence with practical experience.” fully engages with its local community.”

Peter Jones - Founder and Chairman Rachael Charlton - Executive Director of HR & OD, Mike Rance MBE - Make It Macclesfield of the Emerson Group. East Cheshire NHS Trust. Community Interest Company.

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CONTRIBUTING TO FULL-TIME LEARNERS - THE BUOYANCY OF AGED 16 TO 18 - CONTEXT

THE LOCAL ECONOMY Macclesfield College enjoyed demonstrable and in each of the last three years. Moreover, our marked success in the provision of full-time full-time learners are continuing to achieve at Full-time learning here at Macclesfield College learning for 16 to 18 year-olds, during the rates that are consistently parallel with - or is both broad-based and diverse, with a wide preceding three-year period from 2015 to 2018. above - the national average. Likewise, our range of courses and study programmes, all achievement rates for learners enrolled on dedicated to optimising the potential and We continued to perform well in this key area, functional skills programmes in English and eventual employability of 16 to 18 year-olds in spite of a spiky demographic profile locally, mathematics are also either in line with - or throughout the East Cheshire region... and significantly increasing local participation in skills- greater than - nationally reported figures. based learning, with a total of 1157 young people beyond. enrolled on our courses by the beginning of The high level of teaching, training and Our local economy is buoyant, dynamic and growing Academic Year 2017/18. Macclesfield College pedagogy provided by Macclesfield College at a significant rate - currently it outstrips the continues to have a stronghold of 66% of the continues to make a positive and tangible performance of the UK’s core cities, and enjoys the market share of school leavers who don’t go to impact on the lives of young learners across strongest GDP per capita outside London. Moreover, local sixth forms. the East Cheshire region... and beyond. the Cheshire and Warrington sub-region is home to As one of the region’s dedicated FE and HE Moreover, our achievement rates across the 16- world-leading businesses operating in globally institutions, we are fully committed to supporting to-18 bracket increased significantly, with important commercial and manufacturing sectors, the progression of our learners onto positive Education and Training retention up from 86.4% from AstraZeneca (pharmaceuticals) to Unilever destinations. 88.5% of our young learners in 2015/16, to 95.4% by the end of Academic Year (chemicals) and Bentley (automotive). completing their courses by the close of 2017/18. Likewise, the Education and Training pass Academic Year 2016/17, instantly progressed Notwithstanding this, our region is facing some rate for 16-to-18 year-olds studying at Macclesfield to a positive destination, either higher or sizeable challenges if it is to maintain its stability College increased markedly, from 89.9% in 2015/16, further training, or directly into employment. again to 95.4% by the close of 2017/18. and current rate of growth in the longer term. These Furthermore, progression was found to be include the urgent need to bolster and replenish positive for learners studying at all levels. an ageing workforce with ambitious, employable Our provision for young full-time learners is both and highly skilled young people, committed to living broad-based and inclusive, with learners of all Taken on face value, our position as one of and working in the region. abilities able to access high quality learning, here the FE and HE colleges serving the north of at Macclesfield College. England’s largest and most buoyant economy, Our duty here at Macclesfield College is to attract, could - with admitted justification - be viewed recruit, retain and train the calibre of young people Importantly, our overriding commitment to the as being fortunate. The economic output of the Cheshire businesses need to grow and prosper, needs and aspirations of our young learners Cheshire and Warrington sub-region currently nurturing their talents, developing their appetite helped them to successfully complete their exceeds that of the UK’s core cities, and it is for learning and optimising their work-readiness, courses. Achievement rates for our full-time young home to world-leading businesses, operating with full-time courses that stimulate and inspire. learners - studying at all levels - have increased in globally important sectors. 18 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 13:40 Page 19

ALIGNMENT WITH THE LEP SKILLS

Significant challenges lie in wait for the region Of all learners progressing to HE, 90% of them AND EDUCATION PLAN however, and these - if not properly addressed secured their first choice at university. All learners Fulfil our duty as a local FE and HE provider to and adequately catered for by education and at College who have not reached a grade 4 in supply our growing regional economy - which professional skills training providers alike - could English and or maths are supported to do so has the strongest GDP per capita outside London - strike at the heart of our dynamic local economy whilst at the College. and adversely affect its productivity and stability, with the next generation of skilled workers. moving forward. In reaching these outcomes we also achieved high levels of learner satisfaction - 98% - well Helping to narrow the region’s skills gap, by Perhaps the most formidable challenge for the above national comparators, and the highest ensuring that young learners are taught and Cheshire and Warrington sub-region in the future, recorded anywhere in Cheshire. Whilst we trained to specific local employer requirements. is the need to adequately replace and replenish its should be rightly proud of these successes, we ageing, highly-skilled workforce. This is an urgent fully appreciate and recognise that there is still Placing increased focus on STEM and digital objective for the area, which equates to 230,000 much more to be done, if we are meet both the skills, as well as the key sectors identified in high quality, qualified positions being filled by short and longer term needs of the region we our region’s Strategic Economic Plan. 2025. serve. Playing our part in establishing an excellent Moreover, there is a clear mismatch between the Government policy has recently dictated that FE skills local employers need, and the skills many and HE colleges - such as Macclesfield - place suite of technology delivering STEM and digital of East Cheshire’s young learners are choosing to a renewed focus on developing advanced and skills for the benefit of the region’s economy. acquire. This is simply down to the fact that not higher level skills, in order to produce the kind enough people are getting the information they of home-grown, highly qualified workers regional Ensuring that young learners gain the basic need, to make informed decisions about what economies across the UK need, to take the nation English and maths skills that would enable them subjects to study, in order to maximise their career forward, post-Brexit. to progress into STEM and digital-based careers. opportunities in the future. This is particularly true for STEM subjects and digital skills. Central to this - as we stated earlier in this Putting employers in the spotlight, by placing section - is a pressing need to train a greater them at the heart of communicating with and Here at Macclesfield College, we are continuing percentage of young people in STEM-related inspiring young people and their parents. to make significant inroads into helping to narrow subjects, whilst honing their digital skills. As far the region’s skills gap. Almost a quarter of our full- as the Cheshire and Warrington sub-region is time young learners were following STEM (Science, concerned, there is a particular focus on recruiting Committed to encouraging young women into Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) courses more young women into engineering and engineering and advanced manufacturing roles. during Academic Year 2017/18. advanced manufacturing roles, and everyone at In the Cheshire and Warrington sub-region, Macclesfield College is fully committed to playing manufacturing contributes 22% of our overall There is an increasing three-year trend of learners their part in realising this hugely important target, economy, compared with just 9% nationally. progressing from Level 2 to higher level programmes. in order to further strengthen the local economy. 19 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 01/03/2019 12:01 Page 20

OUR FULL-TIME FULL-TIME LEARNERS - ALUMNI... WHERE AGED 16 TO 18 - VISION ARE THEY NOW? By 2023, it is envisaged that Macclesfield College north of England’s largest and most vibrant Full-time learning at Macclesfield College is a will have become established as the regional economy. great way to maximise your employability... ‘college of choice’ for technical and professional learning for young people. Jake Petrie - Autorola Limited: In order to optimise our methods and standards of teaching over the next five years, A very popular figure at the College, More young people than ever before - our target is Macclesfield College will need to continue Jake completed his Level 2 Diploma to attract, develop and teach 1,500 high quality accessing high quality, industry-relevant staff full-time learners within the next five years - will in Business and Admin, before who understand the pedagogy required to have chosen to study with us, with participation accepting an exciting apprentice role stretch each learner to the fullest potential. at Macclesfield-based global online in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and vehicle re-marketing specialist, Mathematics) related subjects rising in line with regional demand. A greater percentage of our full- At all times, our teaching and training staff Autorola. “Jake has a great appetite for work, and here at Macclesfield College will approach their his personality is making him a very likeable figure time learners will also be studying at higher levels, by 2023. lessons in a proactive, exciting and inspiring in the office,” says Operations Director, Neil Frost. manner, with the needs of individual learners Now a full-time employee, Jake’s role is in Sales Exciting and innovative new programmes, firmly in their minds. Each tutor, trainer and Support, which includes liaising with transport designed and developed in partnership with assessor employed by the College will ensure firms to move sold vehicles and deal with vehicle employers, will complement our extensive offer that the courses they are teaching are relevant appraisals, producing and sending invoices and to young full-time learners. Foremost amongst to the industry sectors they cover, whether helping to process grievances. these are our current, high-profile partnerships that be through work placements or additional sector-specific training. Emma Higinbotham - Autorola Ltd: with the likes of AstraZeneca, Cheshire East Council, A model learner during her time at Direct Foods, East Cheshire NHS Trust, Lucideon and Proseal UK, with many more strategic link- ups in Macclesfield College, Emma gained In order to give our staff our fullest possible the offing over the next five years. support, the Continued Personal Development her Level 2 Diploma in Business and (CPD) provision in College, will be significantly Admin, before leaving to take up her Through these initiatives, we are aiming to ensure enhanced, so that it can be accurately targeted new position at Autorola. Working that 100% of our learners will be benefiting from at individual staff needs. alongside her fellow College alumnus Jake Petrie in high quality, meaningful work placements, by Sales Support, Emma’s daily duties include arranging 2023. Furthermore, our teachers will endeavour to transport and recording vehicle appraisals, dealing make best possible use of the latest learning with mail and vehicle documents, and general admin. Moreover, it is anticipated that - on leaving technologies available to Macclesfield College. “Like Jake, Emma is a real credit to herself and the Macclesfield College - our alumni will progress into Over the next five years, we are committed to College,” confirms Neil Frost. “She is very bright, vocationally relevant further training, education undertaking a full IT upgrade, which will include determined and ambitious and I’m sure she will or employment in the Cheshire and Warrington the update of our Virtual Learning Environment go far in the world of work.” region, thereby making their contribution to the (VLE). 20 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 13:48 Page 21

A set of teaching and learning tools designed to see continued growth in the number of full-time This focused new strategy will be aligned precisely to both enhance a student's learning experience learners aged 16-18 years over the five-year life with the region’s demography, to ensure that future and encourage them to take responsibility span of this plan. Furthermore, from 2019 onwards, opportunities and routes to market are executed to for their own learning, VLE breaks down the we are planning to target admissions from outside their maximum extent, in order to achieve the curriculum into sections that can be assigned and the Macclesfield area, moving into neighbouring appropriate number of applications for each funding towns like Leek, Congleton, Wilmslow and Crewe. assessed, and features student tracking, online stream of the College. All data used will have

support for both teacher and student, electronic been collected from Vector, our in-house Labour We will ensure our curriculum is both appropriate communication (e-mail, threaded discussions, Market Intelligence (LMI) tool, which represented chat, Web publishing), and Internet links to and responsive to local needs, by analysing labour a significant internal investment for us here at market intelligence and acting appropriately upon external resources. Macclesfield College, during Academic Year its outcomes. During the five-year life span of this 2017/18. Assisted by learning tools such as VLE - combined strategic plan, we will review and refresh the curriculum offer to ensure it remains fully aligned with our unrelenting focus on aspiration - our full- As part of our recruitment drive over the next five to regional and national requirements. time students will be consistently realising high years, we will also be adopting a college-wide achievement rates in all College curriculum areas approach towards pinpointing and catering to A key part of us ensuring that our target of 1,500 by 2023. local learner needs, with a tailored curriculum full-time learners is successfully met by 2023, is offer that appeals and aligns to the current and All full-time students enrolled with us here at the strategic use of expert, outsourced marketing future workforce. Macclesfield College, will be set aspirational target by our preferred providers. Over the past three grades at the outset of their courses, and they will years, Macclesfield College has benefited greatly be closely mentored, monitored and supported to from meticulously planned and well-coordinated Central to our new-look marketing output, will be a robust and sustainable internal and external help them achieve their goals. multi-platform marketing activity, which has communications infrastructure, in continuation of been successful in re-establishing the College’s From the many opportunities provided to them operations piloted successfully during Academic reputation at a crucial time, whilst re-inforcing our to experience and prepare for the world of work, position at the heart of the community we serve. Year 2017/18. This will facilitate enhanced public they will become highly employable. As a relations and enable good news to infiltrate the result, our learners will go onto positive futures, As part of our five-year strategic plan to 2023, we world outside College, as well as communicating with a greater number progressing directly to are now looking to build and enhance a highly inwardly to staff via internal publications, such as advanced and higher level programmes, to assist responsive and diverse marketing function to the Principal’s Blog. The ultimate aim of this is the regional economy and help replenish its benefit the College and help ensure we reach to help ensure that current and newsworthy ageing skilled workforce by 2025. our core markets with even greater efficiency going information is always channelled in an accurate, Despite a reducing population of local young forward. A key element of this will be social media, efficient and timely manner, in order to effectively people aged 16-18 years, through greater market which will be used to promote individual curriculum celebrate, promote and publicise the success of our penetration and improved progression, we expect areas in an efficient and highly targeted manner. learners. 21 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 01/03/2019 12:20 Page 22

OUR PLANNED OUR PROCESSES AND STRATEGIC PLANNED EXECUTION OUTPUTS TO 2023 Moving forward to 2023, the new-look marketing Specifically we will: An extensive, high quality curriculum offer, function at Macclesfield College’s will also create with a renewed focus on STEM and digital a framework of community and employer introduce a new higher level skills offer skills, in order to align with priorities opportunities throughout the local region. for key subject areas, such as Management, identified by the Cheshire and Warrington LEP. CIPD (the Chartered Institute of Personnel This is intended to harness enhanced cohesion in Development) and Construction Built Excellent standards of teaching and the area, and will take the form of dual-branding, Environment. assessment employed into delivering sponsorships and board-level representation, to Introduce the Technical Baccalaureate as an exciting and innovative new programmes, ensure that we are utilising every available designed in close collaboration with local option for our talented level 3 learners. We partnership and possible opportunity to serve employers and organisations. expect the number of programmes offering our local community. a Technical Baccalaureate option to grow High-profile partnerships with industry- year-on-year, over the life of this plan. Macclesfield College will strive to communicate leading organisations across a range of key sectors that will benefit the regional our marketing outcomes and progress annually Upskill all College staff appropriately, in economy, including Siemens, Seddon Construction, to key stakeholders and the business and local order to facilitate the successful delivery of Cogent and the East Cheshire NHS Trust. communities alike, in the form of a yearly T-levels. communications strategy. Establish the Work Placement Capacity and Continued access to high quality, industry- Through this, our stakeholders and partners alike Delivery Fund (CDF) within the overall College relevant staff who understand the structure, thus enabling links with employers will recognise us as a leading FE and HE college pedagogy required to stretch each and thereby facilitating the work experience learner to their optimum potential. Continued which serves the needs of young people and element of the new T-levels. Professional Development (CPD) provision will be supports their economic, social and personal significantly enhanced for our teaching staff, to development here in East Cheshire. Ensure that all curriculum planning in this area help them reach their targets. is totally cost-efficient. Macclesfield learners will continue to report Macclesfield College is committed to high levels of satisfaction with college life, Deliver the most relevant curriculum offer for undertaking a full IT upgrade by 2023, well above averages for the sector, both here learners within the area. which will include the update of our in Cheshire and nationally. Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Encourage the College’s Senior Management Our young learners will develop into socially Team to become active members of local skills’ Macclesfield College will continue to aware and responsible young adults, and they boards, Macclesfield Regeneration Board, HS2 upgrade, in line with demand. will understand how to best conduct themselves, Board and Digital Skills Initiative within the both in professional and social situations. Cheshire area. 22 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 17:30 Page 23

Ensure the achievement rates of our most Continue to set stretching individual targets have the best possible opportunities to work vulnerable learners are in line with all our for all of our learners, both academically and with up-to-date equipment and resources that other learners. vocationally, as well as framing aspirational are relevant to the world of work, in real-time goals for their next steps. industry settings. Develop the skill set of technical and academic Monitor and analyse the progress of all our teachers to meet the needs of learners with Engage fully in World Skills and regional skills learners, both during lesson-times and over specific learning difficulties and/or disabilities, competitions and look forward to further their entire course, in order to develop their to help ensure effective integration into success in skills competitions over the life learning as quickly and effectively as possible. mainstream courses, wherever possible. span of this plan. We are planning to host forthcoming Skills Shows on campus, thereby Provide a high quality tutorial provision that furthering the development of a culture of Ensure that Macclesfield College is fully aligned prepares students to be tomorrow’s global competition College-wide. to Gatsby benchmarks. These are a framework citizens. of eight guidelines that define the best careers provision in schools and colleges. Continue to ensure a layer of support for Encourage and support local employers learners such as tutorial coaches, learning in promoting the value of recruiting advanced We will continue to maintain our high success mentors, counsellors, careers advisors, plus and higher apprentices from learners rates across our entire full-time provision. By the relevant external agencies, so that all of completing full-time programmes. This will equipping staff and learners with the tools to our learners can achieve to their optimum include marketing material, employer events drive higher level learning, we will ensure all potential. and the development of effective learner- learners do not just pass their qualification, employer engagement services. but aspire to and achieve the highest grades Continue to develop the use of new and possible, at whatever level of study. existing IT, in order to support the delivery of Work collaboratively and transparently learning. Also to ensure that our staff possess with key stakeholders and partners including the requisite skills to optimise the use of this Cheshire East Council, Macclesfield Chamber of Review the standards we expect of our teaching technology in class. Commerce, JobCentre Plus, The Cheshire and and learning staff and ensure that our CPD Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership, the (Continued Professional Development) Build on good practice in areas such as AoC Regional Committee and the Skills and programme supports the promotion of best construction and engineering, by strengthening Growth Company. practice across all of our provision. our strategic partnerships with key employers in this dynamic industry sector, such as Seddon Work in partnership with Cheshire East Council Develop innovative and engaging ways and Wilkinson Star. and others in supporting provision for learners of delivering English and mathematics courses aged 11-16 years in our local schools, in and qualifications, to enable more learners to Liaise with our employer partners across the preparation for them enrolling at Macclesfield achieve higher grades in these vital areas. region and beyond, to ensure that our learners College. 23 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 01/03/2019 12:24 Page 24

IMPROVED COHESION FULL AND PART-TIME ADULT WITH THE LOCAL SKILLS LEARNERS - CONTEXT

COMMUNITY 2015 to 2018 proved to be an immensely As with practically all areas of our curriculum at Macclesfield College has continued to perform challenging and difficult time for adult Macclesfield College, learner satisfaction within education nationally. well in the realm of adult education, despite our adult education programmes has remained pleasingly high, in spite of all the turmoil that’s the ongoing challenges and constraints facing The Government’s austerity measures - designed been surrounding this sector nationally. this beleaguered sector. to reduce the budget deficit following the Great Recession- had a significant and negative impact Our most recent Ofsted inspection in November upon adult education spending. These swingeing Adult education remains a powerful tool for 2017, found that our adult leaders felt safe at cuts subsequently resulted in notable decreases re-engaging those adults marginalised in Macclesfield College. Our attention to health and in adult education participation across the entire society by language barriers, socio-economic safety is meticulous, both in practical workshops country. This was especially true in 2015, when disadvantages or mental health challenges. they led directly to the redundancy of many and in the college buildings. A culture of tolerance Despite the Cheshire and Warrington sub-region and respect permeates the learning environment teaching and support staff delivering adult education across England and Wales. being the north of England’s largest and most and learners are confident to explore diverse and buoyant economy (currently, we as a region complex issues. Despite these substantial set-backs and difficulties, benefit from the largest GDP per capita outside Macclesfield College managed to maintain a high London), 25% of our workers (118,000) are Our Leaders and managers work very effectively quality provision for adult learners throughout the earning below the living wage, and there are with a range of employers, stakeholders and East Cheshire region, and we remain one of the still significant skills gaps hindering further external organisations to design programmes to leading providers of adult education programmes fill skills shortages both in Macclesfield and in the area. growth, both for individuals and businesses. region-wide. Currently there are 2,222 adult learners who are Compared with the national average, our region Our managers work closely with Jobcentre Plus to participating in skills learning, here at Macclesfield has relatively few people who are unemployed, design courses and widen participation in learning. College. Most of these hail from communities and yet we still have approximately 40,000 For example we provide courses for accounting neighbourhoods very local to the college. The individuals who are either out of work or technicians, and the hospitality, retail and healthcare achievement rates of our adult learners have economically inactive wanting a job. sectors in order to reduce unemployment and fill the remained at a consistently high level, with an Likewise, although we have one of the highest high number of job vacancies in Macclesfield and overall achievement rate of 92.5% with success proportions of workers qualified to National the surrounding area. above national rates at all levels of learning. Vocational Qualification Level 4 (NVQ4) and Likewise, our learners benefit from good careers Moreover, our adult education programmes are above (39.7%), and lower than average numbers guidance and support to help them progress to also diverse and inclusive. 80.2% of our completing of residents with no qualifications (7.3%), there employment or further learning. Most learners on adult learners progressed to a positive destination, is still a significant percentage of people (around access to higher education programmes progress either higher or further training or directly into 25%) on low wages, on benefits and, most successfully to higher education. employment. importantly, not progressing. 24 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 14:10 Page 25

ALIGNMENT WITH THE LEP SKILLS

The Cheshire and Warrington sub-region also has with providers - like Macclesfield College and will AND EDUCATION PLAN a total of 870 young people who are not in continue to work with them to align national and Working with the Cheshire and Warrington LEP education, employment or training (NEET) who local policy on adult education. to put us at the heart of high quality adult are known to the local authorities, and many more training in the north of England’s most buoyant who are at risk of becoming NEET in the future. Our most recent ‘Ofsted’ report - published in economic region. These residents are not benefiting from the growth November 2017 - rates the adult education in our economy, and it is a situation that urgently provision at Macclesfield College to be ‘requiring Helping to address worklessness and inadequate needs to be addressed. For these residents, 19+ improvement’, although it did acknowledge that skills provision throughout the Cheshire and (adult) skills and learning needs to be part of a significant improvements had been made since Warrington sub-region, helping it to progress holistic service that enables them to move into our previous inspection in 2016. even further and create improved living and work and progress. Likewise, in our 2016/17 self-assessment report, working standards across all levels of society. Another key factor influencing adult education our Managers in the full and part-time adults here in East Cheshire, will be relevant from 2019 skills faculty decided that the setting and Addressing and catering for the skills gaps that onwards, when local authorities will take on more monitoring of target grades for learners required exist within the region, whilst contributing to responsibility to deliver quality adult education in improvement. A new system for setting and the replacement of an ageing, highly skilled their local areas, once adult funding is devolved monitoring learners’ targets was duly implemented workforce. from central Government, subject to agreed in early 2017. readiness conditions. Looking to increase the proportion of people The currently Academic Year (2018/19) is one of On the positive side, full and part-time adult aged 20 to 39 with degree-level qualifications. transition to give local authorities time to learn the learners enrolled on a course at Macclesfield It increased by just 1.5% between 2004 and skills for success, strengthen their relationships College enjoy their lessons, are actively involved 2012, compared to 9.6% across the rest of with providers - like Macclesfield College - and test in learning activities and develop high levels of the UK. out mechanisms before Adult Education Budget confidence and self-esteem. Ofsted also found (AEB) devolution comes fully into force. that they took pride in and produce a high Align our adult education provision with the standard of work. region’s Strategic Economic Plan (SEP). This During this transitional year, the Education and sets out the ambition to grow the regional Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) will continue to Most learners reflect very effectively on their economy, and create an additional 120,000 manage the AEB budget nationally, and will be previous knowledge and competently link theory jobs by 2040. responsible for calculating AEB allocations and to workplace practice. For example, learners on notifying all providers. AAT accounting programmes were found to be Engaging in enhanced community activity The Department for Education is supporting capable of linking the topic of profit and loss throughout the East Cheshire area, helping authorities as they build sustainable relationships analysis to their job roles. local individuals to maximise their employability. 25 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 01/03/2019 12:34 Page 26

OUR ADULT SKILLS FULL AND PART-TIME ADULT ALUMNI... WHERE SKILLS LEARNERS - VISION ARE THEY NOW? By 2023, it is envisaged that Macclesfield College technologies, which will become more available Effective, high quality adult education can help will have become an ‘Outstanding’ provider in as part of the College’s revamped IT infrastructure. to kick-start careers and transform lives... the field of adult education, with a range of courses that caters to the precise needs of our We will drive and retain a marked increase in Tina Whiston - HR Coordinator, Elior People Services community, and offers better progression for attendance to lessons, in order to create a Since completing her studies at the learners of all abilities. positive effect on the progress that our adult College in July 2018, Tina progressed learners make. This will also help to facilitate to become HR Coordinator at Elior, To help us achieve this challenging objective, enhanced lesson planning and result in learners based in Macclesfield, and is really we will develop a close, effective and efficient experiencing significantly less disruption, due to working relationship between ourselves and the getting to grips with the employee low attendance, where lesson plans may previously Cheshire East Council. advisor role, which she is loving. “I have been scrapped due to low attendance. can remember having my interview at College in Our adult education provision will have been March 2016, prior to beginning my Level 3 CIPD, carefully planned and developed in partnership We will strive to ensure the feedback from feeling very nervous, going back in to the classroom with the local council, the Skills and Growth our tutors to our learners following course at 50,” says Tina. “I so enjoyed that year of learning Agency, the Macclesfield Chamber of Commerce, assessments identifies precisely what learners and was keen to complete Level 5 CIPD the following the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise need to do to improve their work. Likewise, we year. This was even more of a challenge, but I felt Partnership, Job CentrePlus, local employers, will continue to encourage our tutors to employ that doing my Level 3 first gave me a really good community groups and other local stakeholders. questioning techniques skilfully to extend foundation for that next level.” In doing so, our college will be widely recognised learners’ understanding, successfully develop for the dynamic, invaluable contribution we will Sharon Galley - Practising Counsellor debating skills and broaden their thinking skills. make in shaping and transforming the lives of Macclesfield College is fully committed to Since completing her course at the adults across the region. supporting the diverse learning needs of local College, Sharon Galley is now a adults throughout the East Cheshire region. practising Counsellor. “Having Adult participation in learning will increase during completed the Level 2 and 3 the five-year life span of this plan, supported by Our strategy will look to incorporate skills Counselling courses, I was eager to the devolved Adult Education Budget which will shortages and upskilling needs that Brexit will achieve my Level 4 Diploma which would enable me be controlled by the local authority, to whom will necessitate. We will be at the centre of the to become a qualified Counsellor,” says Sharon. “My be a preferred education and training provider. community, aligning with the needs of SMEs, tutor was excellent, and the combination of working The teaching at the centre of our adult education businesses and larger organisations, to ensure with him and Senior Management at the College courses and programmes will, at all times, be our local economy thrives, and our College fully proactive, dynamic and inspirational, with a clear taught me a lot personally in the process. I have been supports real student opportunities locally. focus on the needs of each individual learner. practising as a Counsellor for just over eighteen In partnership with the local council, the Skills months now and love my job. I have now returned Furthermore, our teachers will make the best and Growth Agency, the Macclesfield Chamber to the College to train as a counselling tutor.” possible use of the latest available learning of Commerce, the Cheshire and Warrington Local 26 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 14:17 Page 27

OUR PROCESSES AND PLANNED EXECUTION

Enterprise Partnership, Job CentrePlus, local Some of our programmes in this key area will Notwithstanding our region enjoying some of the employers, community groups and other local be aimed at improving cohesion between lowest unemployment and claimant figures stakeholders, we will develop and deliver an Macclesfield College and the community we recorded anywhere in the entire United Kingdom, adult education programme that meets the serve. we will continue to support some of our poorer needs of local people and local employers. communities, by reducing pockets of worklessness Despite East Cheshire being one of the North in collaboration with Job Centre Plus, delivering We will ensure that the entirety of our adult West’s and, indeed the UK’s most affluent and practical employability programmes to help get education budget is used exclusively to upskill, commercially buoyant regions, there are still adults back into gainful employment. retrain and develop local work-ready individuals significant pockets of poverty and social in order to contribute to the continued growth deprivation located in some of the area’s These programmes will focus on core interview of the Cheshire and Warrington sub-region’s poorest wards. skills, career planning, job searching and personal buoyant economy. development. The majority will be short courses The programmes we will be devising to help to enable learners to progress quickly into We will also ensure that all our full and part- address this, will be aimed at developing employment, alongside the development of a time adult skills courses and programmes are essential skills for adults, many of whom will relevant technical skill. complementary to the College’s apprenticeship be disadvantaged or socially marginalised. and higher skills provision, thereby facilitating We are very aware that we have a key role to clear access and progression opportunities for These programmes will support adults in play in meeting the needs of adults with learning the most ambitious and committed individuals. progressing into employment or further study. This provision includes basic skills, employability, difficulties, disabilities or mental health issues. By 2023, we will have also extended our short mathematics, English and English for Speakers or With this in mind, Macclesfield College will refresher courses and job change programmes in Other Languages (ESOL) programmes. continue to work closely with Cheshire East key priority sectors such as electrical installation, Council, to offer high quality provision for learners engineering and manufacturing, building Despite the prevailing demographics of the area with any form of learning difficulty or disability, technologies and digital technologies. served by Macclesfield College, these programmes in order to empower them to achieve positive remain a genuine priority for us, in tandem with outcomes that will enhance and maximise their During the next five years, we will be engaging Cheshire East Council and the Cheshire and potential. with adult learners across East Cheshire, in order Warrington Local Enterprise partnership, as we Ultimately, by 2023, Macclesfield College is aiming to revise, review and adapt our approach and collectively strive to ensure more adults are to have around 2,500 adult learners enrolled on arrive at a system that best supports a blended equipped to make a positive contribution to society. high quality courses and programmes, all of which learning experience. In doing so, we will be will be fully aligned with the needs of the regional positioned to review our delivery models thereby We will offer an extensive programme of English economy, as identified by the Cheshire and allowing further flexibility, distance learning and and mathematics, from entry level functional skills Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership. In this short block delivery to best meet study and to GCSE level at the college’s main Park Lane way, we will play an active role in getting more support needs for adult learners. campus and in a number of community settings. than 120,000 people into work by 2040. 27 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023

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BUILDING FOR THE APPRENTICESHIPS AND WORK FUTURE... ON SOLID BASED LEARNING - CONTEXT FOUNDATIONS The past three years has been a watershed Situated in the heart of East Cheshire - one of In order to ensure that we as a college are period for apprenticeships at Macclesfield the UK’s most dynamic and buoyant business always efficiently addressing and responding to College. regions - Macclesfield College is a state-of-the- the diverse skills needs of East Cheshire and art further and higher education institution. beyond, Maxim has been successful in forging According to the DfE league tables in November 2017, solid and strategic links with key stakeholders we were the top performing college in Cheshire and Although we are a relatively small college with and employers across the region. This has Greater Manchester for apprenticeship timely completions. limited resources, our tireless commitment and helped us to accurately gauge and understand Through our dedicated employer-responsive arm - demonstrable professionalism have seen us punch local skills requirements, and develop a fully Maxim Business Training - we are now about to well above our weight and place employers and tailored apprenticeship offer that seamlessly begin a challenging and exciting journey to becoming apprenticeships at the very heart of our agenda. fills the gaps and contributes significantly to ‘Outstanding’ for apprenticeships by 2023. Since the appointment of current Principal and the ongoing economic growth, prosperity and Central to our ambitious targets for the next five years, Chief Executive, Rachel Kay and Director of stability of the area we serve. is significant growth in the number of apprentices Employer Enterprise and Commercial Services, enrolled our high quality programmes. By 2023, we Tracy Cosgrave in August 2015, we have been fully Over the past three years, Macclesfield College confidently estimate that we will have 1,000 learners committed to embracing a culture of innovation, has also worked in close collaboration with the working towards qualifications from Level 2 to Higher enterprise and long-term growth via a high-profile local Chamber of Commerce, Council, MPs and Level. In order to realise this bold target, we will be apprenticeships programme that’s grown by 150% other stakeholders to stimulate the take-up of expanding our Business Development team, in order to (in terms of apprentice numbers) in a little over apprenticeships across the East Cheshire region. engage with more employers across the East Cheshire three years. Moreover, we have played a leading role in the region and beyond, to generate additional leads. development and evolution of the ‘Macclesfield To engage with the East Cheshire region’s Pledge’ - a key initiative for the town that brings We will also be Improving our apprenticeship rates year burgeoning business community through high together employers, providers and ambitious, on year, to achieve a target of 12% over the National quality apprenticeships, we launched Maxim work-ready young people in order to identify Provider Rate. Through Business Training - our dedicated employer- and realise exciting opportunities for the future. Maxim, we will also be responsive arm - back in October 2015. Featuring monitoring quality and on the Register of Apprenticeship Training Today, Maxim Business Training is well-known ensuring continued Providers, Maxim excels in delivering leading- and widely respected throughout our region, improvement, as we edge, fully certified apprenticeships and trailblazers and we work closely with some of its largest look to further enhance to help individuals, businesses and public sector employers including AstraZeneca, Cheshire our relationships with organisations alike to focus on their futures by East Council, Direct Foods, East Cheshire NHS employers across the Tracy Cosgrave - College Director shaping, enhancing and transforming workforce Trust, Lucideon and Proseal UK. As a result of North West region... of Commercial Services & Employer and career skills across a broad range of industries the strong links forged regionally by Maxim - and beyond. Enterprise. and occupations. and the comprehensive, robust employer 28 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 14:25 Page 29

ALIGNMENT WITH THE LEP SKILLS AND EDUCATION PLAN engagement undertaken to date - Macclesfield and open evenings, which continue to be well College has been immensely successful in expanding supported by local employers. Ensuring that everyone in the East Cheshire and transforming our apprenticeships provision, to region is fully informed about the career and Moreover, governors, leaders and managers at include new programmes that meet employer progression opportunities open to them. needs head-on and deliver first-class opportunities Macclesfield College have been successful in embedding a culture of equality throughout our to young people, once they have completed full- Improving the overall quality of education and organisation, and are passionate about our time education programmes. skills provision by strategically partnering with apprentices, including those who are totally To reiterate, our apprenticeships programme here regional and national employers in key sectors. work-based. This is to ensure they have the at Macclesfield College has increased by a hugely same support as all other learners. A clear impressive 150%, in terms of learner numbers. We Encouraging greater take-up of apprenticeship example of this commitment, is the College’s currently have 419 apprentices who are working programmes across the region, followed by recent introduction and implementation of a to apprenticeship frameworks across 10 sector increased progression onto Higher Apprenticeships. mental health awareness training programme subject areas, at Levels 2 to 5. The dedicated and undertaken by all Maxim staff. professional team in place at Maxim, has worked Ensuring that our apprentices have the requisite both collaboratively and tirelessly to develop our This is in response to an increasing number of vocational skills to contribute the region’s new apprenticeships standards, in line with regional full-time learners nationally, who are either workforce on leaving Macclesfield College. skills needs. Moreover, Maxim is now firmly suffering from mental health issues, or may established as a leading provider of apprenticeships be showing signs of poor or impaired mental Playing our part in developing a more coherent here in East Cheshire, rated Grade 2 “Good” by health. and ‘Outstanding’ curriculum offer across the Ofsted in our latest inspection in November 2017. Cheshire and Warrington region. Macclesfield College provides impartial Information, In a recent survey, 97% of our learners said they would recommend an apprenticeship course at Building on our existing good practice in working advice and guidance for all individuals thinking of collaboratively with businesses to design and taking up an apprenticeship and this is provided at Macclesfield to their friends, whilst more than 500 of our learners participated in real work deliver the training and employability skills that the outset, via Maxim’s apprenticeship recruitment local employers need. team. This dedicated team ensures that new experience during Academic Year 2016-17. learners are placed on the right courses and with What’s more, in the most recent FE Week Focusing on the strengths and specialisms of an employer that is best suited to their career National League Tables, we were confirmed as the region’s employer base, in order to properly aspirations. the top college in Cheshire for both learner and align our training provision to the skills required. As a college, we also market and promote all of employer satisfaction, as well as being one of our current and future apprenticeship opportunities the best-performing colleges nationally for Monitoring and evaluating our progress and through well-planned events, such as career fairs getting learners into employment. impact as a training provider, on a consistent basis. 29 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 01/03/2019 12:39 Page 30

APPRENTICESHIP APPRENTICESHIPS AND WORK ALUMNI... WHERE BASED LEARNING - VISION ARE THEY NOW? By 2023, it is envisaged that Maxim Business maximise the work placement and employment Our apprenticeship provision is going from strength Training will be firmly established as the opportunities for our young learners. to strength, as are two of our former learners... preferred skills training provider for businesses across the entire region. To ensure that we are meeting both the Janine Oldfield - East Cheshire NHS Trust: immediate and future skills needs of our A highly focused and driven individual, Thanks to the dedication of its first-rate team of employer partners, as well as aligning our Janine joined the Clinical Skills Team training and assessment professionals, the College’s skills provision with the requirements of the at the East Cheshire NHS Trust, as an dedicated employer-responsive arm is already Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise embedded as a leading provider of high quality Administration apprentice on a 12 Partnership (LEP), we will also be significantly apprenticeships and work-based learning month fixed-term contract. Over the expanding both the range and quality of the programmes across the dynamic East Cheshire last year, Janine has learnt how to set portfolio of standards we currently offer. up and support simulation events with the clinical region and beyond. With the excellent skills development and trainers, as well as handling day-to-day admin duties. Significant growth in the number of apprentices training teams we have at our disposal - and She has also recently sat her Level 2 Amspar exam. enrolled on our high quality programmes will, of judging by our latest Ofsted report - in which “Janine has been a real breath of fresh air since she’s course, be pivotal to us reaching and, potentially, joined us,” says the Trust’s Workforce Development Maxim came in for particular praise - it would exceeding our ambitious targets for the next five appear that this key goal is eminently Advisor, Elaine Bradbury. “We were delighted to offer years, as we aim to ensure that Maxim Business achievable: “Apprenticeships are well planned her a permanent contract and are looking forward to Training and our pioneering apprenticeship and managed to meet the principles and her developing her skills further with us.” programmes are truly ‘Outstanding’ in all aspects requirements of a programme. by 2023. Falan Barton - Bollington Medical “Managers and staff have good working relationships with employers. Leaders and Centre: In 5 years’ time, we confidently estimate that managers have worked particularly hard to Following her studies in Level 2 Art & we will have around 1,000 vocational learners all working towards achieving qualifications from develop standards and apprenticeships in Design, Falan managed to secure an response to local skills needs. apprenticeship position with local NHS Levels 1 and 2, right up to higher apprenticeships. employer, Bollington Medical Centre. In order to realise this bold objective, we will be It is just over 12 months since the Government Her day-to-day duties include various business admin expanding our Business Development team introduced the Apprenticeship Levy which, safe tasks and the centre’s Business Manager, Trish considerably. This is in order to engage with more to say has not proved to be universally popular, Atkinson is delighted with her progress. “Falan is employers across the East Cheshire region and and has presented Maxim and the wider College an absolute pleasure to work with. She’s a courteous beyond, to generate additional leads. with huge challenges throughout Academic Year 2017-18. individual and also benefits from a passionate and Likewise, we will be increasing the number of hard-working approach to her new position, which companies and organisations we are working with, Under the Government’s new measures, all is testament to the team at Macclesfield College.” both regionally and nationally - as we seek to professional training providers have had to gain 30 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 14:30 Page 31

approval by the Register of Apprenticeship Through Maxim, we will also be rigorously monitoring HR apprenticeships and higher level management providers, which Maxim did successfully back in quality and ensuring continued improvement, as programmes. There is also a particular emphasis Autumn 2017, as well as having to bid for non- we look to gauge both learner and employer around healthcare, with Maxim currently working Levy contracts with the ESFA. feedback, whilst further enhancing our relationships with Macclesfield General and The Royal A recent report by an independent non-party think with businesses and organisations both regionally Manchester Hospital to develop new and exciting tank has confirmed that the reforms implemented and nationally. apprenticeship pathways for clinical staff. This includes Maternity apprenticeships at Level 3 and in order to accommodate the Levy have been As part of this drive, we will also be demonstrating harsh. Moreover, they have been found to be excellent destinations data for all of our apprentices, Healthcare Science Associate at Level 4. having a negative impact on apprenticeship by expanding the apprenticeship offer at Macclesfield numbers nationally. The period April to October College to ensure all learners are able to access Through Maxim, Macclesfield College supplies 2017, for instance, was 40% lower than the higher apprenticeship programmes, on successful both hospitals with bespoke training in addition previous year. completion of their courses. to administration, healthcare and IT apprentices. Maxim also works in close conjunction with However, due to successfully gaining supplier A sure sign of consistent progress for Maxim this year, approval for a number of large Levy payers, Learning and Development, to facilitate growth was its nomination and subsequent shortlisting in in Health & Social Care and assistant nursing underpinned by the excellent relationships we two categories - UK Apprenticeships and Employer have forged to date with employers across East practitioners - developing pathways for new Engagement - at the 2018 Educate North Awards, Cheshire, Maxim has managed to buck this rather and existing staff towards a nursing degree. held in April. Although Maxim wasn’t fortunate worrying national trend and, vitally, grow our apprentice numbers. enough to win either award, we performed in Maxim Business Training is also working in close truly admirable fashion against some formidable partnership with Macclesfield General Hospital to Furthermore, Maxim has effectively moved all opposition, such as the Liverpool Hope Business develop bespoke programmes for its existing staff of our apprenticeship programmes from traditional School, the Learning Curve Group and Manchester to grow into qualified roles, through an established frameworks to high quality standards, to ensure our Metropolitan University, and thereby claimed our apprenticeship model. An excellent example of apprenticeship offer effectively meets the needs of rightful place among the industry’s elite. this partnership approach is the Level 2 Healthcare our local employer base. This achievement is all the more remarkable, given the ongoing challenges By 2023, it is envisaged that Maxim Business Diploma for the hospital’s Health Care Support and constraints colleges like Macclesfield are facing Training will have become an award-winning Workers. in today’s perennially tough educational climate. professional skills training provider, achieving This qualification develops the knowledge and national and, possibly, even international In order to achieve ‘Outstanding’ status for Maxim skills needed when working with adults in health recognition for excellence in both planning, Business Training and our apprenticeships provision, and social care environments. It covers a wide delivery and execution. we will also be seeking to improve our integral range of areas including supporting individuals apprenticeship rates year on year, to meet a target Looking to the future, new provision has also been with their physical and emotional care, daily living of 12% over the National Provider Rate by 2023. introduced over the past academic year, including needs and health care procedures.

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OUR PLANNED OUR PROCESSES AND STRATEGIC PLANNED EXECUTION

OUTPUTS TO 2023 The Level 2 Diploma for Health Care partnering with a number of key organisations, Support Workers has generated a including the University of Wolverhampton, the An expanded business development team lot of interest from the staff at University of Chester, Cheshire East Council, the that will engage with more regional Macclesfield General Hospital, who are keen to Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise employers and generate additional leads, progress - as they view this as an invaluable Partnership, the Macclesfield Chamber of in order to increase the number of employers that opportunity for them to step onto a higher level Commerce and the Skills and Growth Agency. we are working with, both locally and regionally. programme and, ultimately, a degree level course. Our ultimate goal - in financial terms - is to In addition to this, we will shortly be launching an achieve a departmental income in excess of A commitment to continually improving innovative Apprenticeship Ambassador programme £2million per annum. In order to reach this apprenticeship rates year on year (both with Macclesfield General Hospital. This will be an exacting target, we will be aiming to generate overall and timely), in order to achieve a information service for schools throughout East additional income through the increase and target of 12% over National Provider Rate. Cheshire, utilising real apprentices’ first-hand enhancement of apprenticeships provision for knowledge to present the Apprenticeship route as levy and non-levy paying employers alike. High-profile partnerships with industry- a viable and successful pathway into a career In conjunction with this, we will also be leading organisations across a range of within the National Health Service. identifying a minimum of three specialist sector key sectors that will benefit the regional skill areas in which we can successfully achieve Apprenticeship Ambassadors will visit local schools economy, including Siemens, Seddon Construction, exclusive accreditation here in East Cheshire, to share their Apprenticeship experiences and Cogent and the East Cheshire NHS Trust. becoming the region’s preferred End Point inspire learners. Through Maxim, they will receive Assessment Centre for these areas in the bespoke training to enable them to share process. Demonstrate excellent destinations data information about apprenticeships in Health and for all apprentices by expanding the Social Care, as well as to positively present their Likewise, we will also be working in close apprenticeship offer to ensure all learners own experiences. collaboration with regional and national are able to access higher programmes. employers, in order to scope out and cater By 2023, we estimate that Maxim Business for non-funded training requirements, whilst Generate additional income through the Training will have significantly grown its provision developing alternative income streams in increase of apprenticeship provision for to both hospitals, and expanded considerably in order to satisfy need. both levy and non-levy employers. this key area, to become the region’s preferred professional skills training provider to the health Catering and hospitality has always been high care industry. on the agenda at Macclesfield College and Identify a minimum of 3 sector skill areas Maxim Business Training. Now, we are set to and successfully achieve accreditation to In order to facilitate delivery of these vital training further enrich our reputation in this dynamic become and End Point Assessment centre. qualifications, Maxim Business Training will be sector, by launching the new Whites Chef 32 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 14:34 Page 33

Academy. featuring Michelin Star-winning, TV To 2023, the College and our dedicated employer- launched in November celebrity chef Aiden Byrne as Principal Patron. responsive arm will seek to continue building on 2018 and endorsed by Situated on campus, the Whites Chef Academy the considerable and significant success we have both Principal and Chief Executive of Macclesfield will replace the Silk Room training restaurant. enjoyed in this area, during Academic Year 2017- College, Rachel Kay and the town’s MP David Rutley, Students enrolled at the new Whites Chef Academy 18. the initial mandate of the ‘Macclesfield Manifesto’ is to will work towards a Level 2 apprenticeship in support the region’s businesses and SMEs, by recruiting As one of the North West’s most economically Professional Cookery, Catering and Hospitality, 100 young people onto apprenticeship programmes... buoyant and enterprising regions, East Cheshire is complemented by placements with some of the in just 100 days from January 2019. Going forward, awash with ambitious young start-up companies the ‘Macclesfield Manifesto’ will look to play a key College’s partner organisations. and SMEs, and it is these kind of businesses that role in aligning the College with the overarching skills make a really strong contribution to the ongoing agenda of the Cheshire and Warrington sub-region. On completion of the course, students vibrancy and stability of regional and national economies. “I am pleased to give my strong support to this will move on to positive initiative,” confirms MP for Macclesfield, gain guaranteed With this in mind - and armed with full ESF funding David Rutley, “and thank Rachel Kay and her apprenticeship places at some of the region’s support - Maxim is looking to deliver expert top restaurants, hotels and catering companies. leadership team for their ambition to create training and skills provision to the region’s small significantly more apprenticeship places in our area. business community. The European Structural The College's continued commitment to investing Launched in October 2018, in readiness for and Investment Funds programme provides September 2019, the Whites Chef Academy will in skills and opportunities for local residents is to funds to help local areas grow. The funds support be congratulated, and I hope as many local businesses see Aiden nurture their talents in readiness for investment in innovation, businesses, skills and the world of work. In addition to this, the College as possible will engage with the Manifesto and see employment and, most importantly, they create will also be running regular Mini Master Chef how they could benefit from taking on an apprentice competitions, which will again be overseen jobs. with the support of the College." and judged by Aiden Byrne. As part of our strategy for continued expansion across a wide range of training and upskilling In order to further maximise the buoyancy of the local economy, we have recently introduced an Maxim Business Training is looking to help small areas, Maxim has become actively engaged in a enhanced offer of short community and engagement businesses grow and prosper, across the dynamic whole raft of projects currently taking place across the dynamic East Cheshire region. It is envisaged courses, designed to transform and widen the local East Cheshire region and beyond. For everybody skills set. This range of employability, family learning connected with Macclesfield College and Maxim, that this strategy will continue to 2023. Foremost among these is the ‘Macclesfield Manifesto’. and English & Maths refresher courses has been solid, results-driven commercial engagement with expressly designed to open up opportunities for local businesses and SMEs is a key priority, and one An innovative and far-reaching apprenticeship local residents to brush up on vital skills, whilst that will be fully developed throughout the five- recruitment drive designed to develop and train offering clear and effective pathways into work, year life span of this strategic plan document. the next generation of skilled workers. Officially apprenticeships and volunteering. 33 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 06/03/2019 15:05 Page 34

HELPING TO ALIGN HIGHER EDUCATION - AND TRANSFORM CONTEXT The end of predictable and steadily-rising recruitment targets, leading to considerable THE REGION’S CORE grant funding, assured student numbers and financial risk for colleges. protection from competition, have exposed universities to open market competition and Another challenge for HE, and in particular College SKILLS SET forced them to re-examine their offer and ways HE, has been the fall in the number of adult of working. learners entering HE (and routes into HE); adult By 2023, it is envisaged that prospective participation in learning, skills and training has learners from across the region will view Although College HE has many strengths, this fallen significantly (from 2.7 million to 1.6 million the College as their first choice for high sea change has revealed some vulnerabilities between 2006 and 2017 at a time when the quality, distinctive and cost-effective higher for the HE sector and has led to a decline in HE population of England has risen by 4 million), recruitment in recent years for a range of reasons: technical and professional education and with the number of mature students in HE dropping by more than half since 2011. training. Long-standing collaborative partnerships with colleges are coming to an end. Numbers of An additional challenge for College HE in particular In order to support the Government priorities set foundation degree students have declined from has been the anxiety created amongst ‘non- out in the Industrial Strategy, achieve precise 90,000 to 40,000 in the last few years. traditional’ entrants into HE by the tripling of alignment with the Local Enterprise Partnership tuition fees. The introduction of financial support Strategic Plan for Cheshire and Warrington and in Many universities are offering growing numbers arrangements which may not adequately cover line with the College’s own strategic priorities, the of students a ‘Year Zero’ foundation year prior to the costs of living, travel, childcare and potential College will deliver higher level qualifications that a three-year degree. This has affected access loss of earnings has been a barrier for many are innovative, dynamic and address specific skills courses as a route into higher education and non-traditional students who aspire to continue gaps identified by local employers. further enabled universities to lower entry requirements and make unconditional offers, their education. affecting recruitment onto HE programmes. The higher technical and professional curriculum To exacerbate this, there remains widespread will also develop cross-cutting skills around Colleges have moved to offer Higher Nationals in misinformation and misunderstanding regarding communication, digital skills, leadership and place of Foundation Degrees. However, a challenge the mechanisms for the repayment of tuition management thus offering learning opportunities to this approach has been that higher nationals can and maintenance loans. In terms of CHE, many which will be of greater value to employers and be perceived to lack a strong brand value in some potential applicants do not realise the benefits the local and regional workforce. industrial/commercial sectors (with exceptions of studying locally in terms of saving on college such as construction and engineering). HE tuition fees and other associated costs. An aspirational ‘Stay Local and Achieve Higher’ culture will support widening participation in Whilst it remains possible to develop and nurture A challenge for the whole of the HE sector has degree-level study and enable the advancement excellent and fruitful collaborative partnerships been that the adoption of student loans and rising of individual careers and personal prosperity with universities, university control of validation fees have led to the continued rise of student locally and regionally. can introduce strict terms and conditions regarding expectations; at the same time dissatisfaction has 34 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 17:35 Page 35

ALIGNMENT WITH THE LEP SKILLS been expressed regarding the extent to which HE successfully met ‘UK Expectations’ across all areas represents ‘value for money’ in terms of how many of higher education, with several areas of good AND EDUCATION PLAN hours students are taught, the quality of teaching practice being identified by the QAA review team. and whether there are facilities that were promised. Renewing focus on STEM (Science, Technology, The considered approach to engaging students Engineering and Maths), digital skills and the Concerns over the extent to which HE courses have and employers in the programme design, key sectors identified in the region’s Strategic been ‘misrepresented’ to the customer have led to development and approval process that aligns Economic Plan (SEP). the intervention of the Competition and Markets provision to local employment needs. Authority, meaning that all providers of HE must Supporting and delivering the new 2-year The proactive and responsive approach taken be compliant with Consumer Law. T-Level technical programmes, to give young in seeking and responding to student feedback learners the employability skills needed by that enhances the quality of student learning In addition, the Office of the Independent Adjudicator industry. for Higher Education (OIA) was established in 2015 opportunities. to provide an independent scheme for the review The comprehensive and integrated monitoring Continuing to produce high quality, fully qualified of student complaints. Offering customer service, and review process which effectively captures young adults that make a positive contribution whilst maintaining academic rigour represents a and responds to emerging issues. to the North’s most successful regional economy. challenge across the sector and implementing the mechanisms required by law can prove particularly Over the past three years, we have also implemented Addressing skills gaps and helping to combat burdensome for smaller providers of HE, such as a revised structure, with HE programmes located in the issue of an ageing workforce, with dynamic, colleges. the relevant curriculum area. These are overseen flexible and employable individuals with the by the relevant Programme Leader and Curriculum requisite qualifications and relevant technical Perhaps the biggest challenge currently for the Manager, with the development and quality of expertise. wider HE sector is the financial uncertainty created higher education provision across the College following the launch of a major review of post-18 becoming the responsibility of the College Senior Developing a fully coherent, high quality HE education and funding in February 2018 and the Management Team. curriculum offer that provides easy access and freezing of tuition fees. clear progression routes to employment. We have also reviewed and strengthened our own The level of fees, interest rates, the sale of student internal processes to maintain standards, and Playing our part in supporting the region’s debt, the return of maintenance grants and the demonstrate total compliance with our awarding 70,000 businesses, enabling them to continue length of repayments could all be under scrutiny. bodies' policies and procedures. This has resulted to grow and create new jobs to further benefit There have been warnings that changes to fees in closer scrutiny, improved central oversight, and the local economy. could mean re-introducing limits on student more formal and transparent reporting processes. Giving some of the region’s most talented numbers. Our quality procedures are reviewed and approved young people the tools, techniques and Since the publication of our previous Strategic throughout the College's committee structure, with confidence to progress in employment, or Plan Document in 2015, Macclesfield College has final approval from the governing body. start their own businesses. 35 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 01/03/2019 13:02 Page 36

HIGHER EDUCATION HIGHER EDUCATION - ALUMNI... WHERE VISION ARE THEY NOW? Prospective learners from across the region will ‘knowledge exchange’. In order to deliver the recognise Macclesfield College as their first choice vision, the College will align its degree-level Our higher education provision has helped to for high quality, distinctive and cost-effective offer to allow seamless progression to higher progress two extremely promising careers... higher technical and professional education and and degree-led apprenticeships and develop training. key partnerships with employers and other Sebastian Freke-Morin - Statiflo: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). A’ Level Graduate Sebastian Freke- In order to support the Government’s priorities Morin has embarked upon a very outlined in the Industrial Strategy, achieve precise This is to deliver a bespoke and flexible higher exciting engineering career, with alignment with the Local Enterprise Partnership curriculum that serves to ensure there is a Macclesfield-based static mixing and Strategic Plan for Cheshire and Warrington and in strong pipeline of talent available for the chemical processing specialist Statiflo. line with our own strategic priorities, the College local and regional context, and that existing In doing so, Sebastian has become will deliver higher level qualifications that are employees can continue to upskill to meet the third generation of his family to work as a innovative, dynamic and address specific skills the relentless pace of change. professional engineer, following in the footsteps of gaps identified by local employers. father Alan - who works as a design engineer, and In terms of challenges to Macclesfield College’s his grandfather Fred, who was the Chief Engineer at The higher technical and professional curriculum HE provision, we have been adversely affected pharmaceutical firm Beechams in St. Helens in will also develop cross-cutting skills around by the wider challenges to the sector. In Lancashire, prior to his retirement. “I’m hugely communication, digital skills, leadership and particular the change in relationships with passionate about apprenticeships,” says company management, thus offering learning opportunities university partners and the changes to funding, MD Gareth Fry, as I began my career in the same which will be of greater value to employers and which have prevented many adults from way. Seb stood out from the many applicants we the local and regional workforce. undertaking HE programmes. had, and we are delighted to welcome him into the business.” An aspirational ‘Stay Local and Achieve Higher’ However, thanks to the success of Maxim culture will support widening participation in Rosie Fenlon - Solo Containment: in terms of its engagement with local and degree-level study and enable the advancement regional employers and stakeholders, the Local containment specialist, Solo of individual careers and personal prosperity College is now well-placed to support the Containment Limited. is the current locally and regionally. Government priorities outlined in the Industrial employer of Level 4 AAT student Strategy and achieve alignment with the Rosie Fenlon. Rosie is in the final The College will leverage and further develop the Local Enterprise Partnership Strategic Plan year of her apprenticeship with Solo. strong and very effective partnerships cultivated for Cheshire and Warrington, in line with the “Rosie is a hard-working, adaptable and extremely with a range of local and regional stakeholders College’s own forward-looking strategic conscientious addition to our team,” says Director towards enhancing our degree-level offer, in order priorities. Caroline Ryder. “She learned quickly to adapt to the to ensure it remains responsive and relevant in business environment and transfers her college skills a local context which is rapidly evolving. This The East Cheshire region is facing a shortage readily.” approach aligns with the government’s call for of higher-level skills, with a deficit of suitably 36 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 16:10 Page 37

qualified candidates relative to the number of jobs Our engagement with and expertise in ‘scholarly The region as a whole loses up to 5,000 graduates requiring them. Cheshire has some of the most activity’ will support this aspect of the strategy; each year, and there is a clear mismatch between significant science-based assets in the north of Macclesfield College led and managed a national the skills local employers need, and the skills England, many of which are of global importance. research project on behalf of the five Cheshire many of East Cheshire’s young learners are This growing sector includes: Thornton Science Colleges (as they were then). choosing to acquire. Park, Sci-tech Daresbury, Birchwood Park’s Nuclear and Forensics Clusters, Alderley Park This is because not enough people are getting the (Life Sciences), Jodrell Bank and the Square Macclesfield College has a clear commitment information they need, to make informed decisions Kilometre Array (SKA) Organisation. to continually improving at all levels, from about what subjects to study, in order to maximise programme teams to senior management. With their career opportunities. Headquartered at the Jodrell Bank Observatory this in mind, we have a rigorous monitoring near Holmes Chapel, the SKA project is an and reporting cycle in place to promote the This is especially true for STEM subjects and digital skills, international effort to build the world’s largest enhancement of learning opportunities and and our HE provision here at Macclesfield College will radio telescope on two sites, one located in the the student experience. be focused on getting our students work-ready with Karoo Desert in western South Africa, and one the relevant skills to contribute to our economy. located in Western Australia. Looking forward to 2023, our ultimate aim here at Macclesfield College is to be recognised as the first The Cheshire and Warrington sub-region is also choice for HE learning throughout the East Cheshire In essence, our higher education programmes host to a concentration of globally significant region and beyond. here at Macclesfield College, are all vocational, companies including AstraZeneca, Siemens, Waters and we are currently engaged in a process of Corporation and the National Nuclear Laboratory. strategic change. This is in order for us to place Cheshire and Warrington is a highly successful an enhanced focus on high quality, industry- economy. Its economic output exceeds that of the relevant HE programmes that support student Additionally, the College is developing links with UK’s core cities, and it is home to an impressive regional health authorities and regional creative line-up of world-leading businesses operating in employability in our region, whilst providing and digital industries, all of whom have identified globally important sectors. Considerable challenges, invaluable experience and placements in skills gaps for employees qualified to a higher however, lie ahead for the region if it is to maintain real-time working environments. level. and enhance its current rate of productivity.

As part of the overall strategy for HE, we will be Perhaps the most pressing of these challenges is seeking to work in close collaboration with the the need to replace the region’s ageing, highly- University of Chester on aspects of curriculum skilled workforce - a vital objective that equates to development (including the delivery of Level 6) 230,000 jobs being filled by 2025. Likewise, the and, ultimately, work towards achieving HE region needs to address the deficit of up to 60,000 qualification awarding powers in the longer term. graduates. 37 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 01/03/2019 12:55 Page 38

OUR PLANNED OUR PROCESSES AND STRATEGIC PLANNED EXECUTION By 2023, it is envisioned that Macclesfield College will actively encourage members of our team OUTPUTS TO 2023 will have grown to become a ‘Silver’ standard TEF to present, publish and disseminate their (Teaching Excellence Framework) institution. research wherever possible.

Macclesfield College will deliver higher The Teaching Excellence Framework is a nationwide Macclesfield College is already a member of the level qualifications that are innovative, system that assesses the quality of teaching in Scholarship Framework, which supports English dynamic and address specific skills gaps English universities and colleges. This pioneering colleges with higher education provision that identified by local employers. framework was introduced in 2017 by the enhances student learning through forms of Government’s Department for Education, to scholarship. Our higher technical and professional provide a reliable and up-to-date resource for curriculum will also develop cross-cutting learners across the country, helping them to It provides resources that have been researched skills around communication, digital skills, judge the quality of teaching in English FE and and approved by key college higher education leadership and management, to provide high- HE institutions, so they can make informed experts, designed to be incorporated into value learning opportunities. decisions regarding their futures. the policies of forward-thinking FE and HE institutions, like ours. We are pursuing an aspirational ‘Stay Local Likewise, TEF was launched as a catalyst to help and Achieve Higher’ campaign, centred on drive up standards in teaching excellence. Colleges The Scholarship Framework is currently supporting supporting widening participation in degree- and universities are classified as either ‘Gold’, Macclesfield College into developing, shaping level study and progressing individual careers and ‘Silver’ or ‘Bronze’ and these ratings are and transforming our scholarship and student triggering personal prosperity locally and regionally. determined by six core metrics based on teaching, experience. Our progress in this key area will academic and pedagogical support and progression be measured over the five-year life span of this Implementing a plan to introduce a to employment. document, both in our National Student Survey focused suite of bespoke degree-level results, and in-house student surveys. courses that mirror the actual needs of the As part of our journey towards becoming officially regional economy we serve. Likewise, we will work ‘Outstanding’ in all aspects by 2023, Macclesfield In turn, the results of these surveys will improve our TEF commentary and provider submission in towards becoming a TEF ‘Silver’ standard provider College is planning to introduce a focused suite of bespoke degree-level courses that mirror the the Quality Review Visit process, preparing us by 2023. actual needs of the regional economy we serve. to achieve degree-awarding powers. We have a very rigorous performance monitoring and reporting cycle in place to A key criteria for being eligible for TEF accreditation In addition to this, we will be: promote the enhancement of learning is ‘recognition for excellence’, both in academic opportunities and the student experience. and vocational teaching and pedagogy, and developing and driving our ‘Stay Local, Achieve scholarly excellence. This is demonstrated by Higher’ campaign, aimed at encouraging We will leverage and further develop the development and dissemination of research, the region’s learners to remain in East strong and effective partnerships cultivated and we are committed to fostering a culture of Cheshire and study higher level - 4 and 5 - with local and regional stakeholders. scholarly excellence within our staff base, and courses with us here at Macclesfield College. 38 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 17:42 Page 39

Partnering with other HE institutes in our region, appropriate information for our students, Retaining our involvement with the AoC such as the University of Chester and other including links to specific information provided Scholarly Activity research programme, in HEIs (Higher Education Institutions) and good by our awarding partners, detailed course and order to enhance our ongoing Teaching and providers of HE, in order for us to offer degree- programme specifications and assessment Learning Strategy. level courses that satisfy the diverse skills and policies. employability needs of large companies and Continuing to compile external examiner SMEs alike, enabling them to grow and further Continuing to collate our policies and reports, learner feedback and action planning, fuel our burgeoning local economy. procedures relating to higher education before summarising them in a College higher through the Higher Education Hub. This is education self-evaluation document. Developing our formal student representation accessible to our staff and students alike, system and training mechanisms further, in and includes our higher education programme Holding regular course meetings to informally order to allow for the full and effective planning and validation procedure, as well as gather learner feedback, and formally collect engagement of students in quality assurance our assessment policy and procedures. These module feedback. We will also continue to processes. include coursework submission, academic misconduct and assessment malpractice. conduct our internal surveys. These are used to inform the College Self-Evaluation Document. Developing more formal processes to undertake a generic review of external examiner reports Continuing to ensure that all Internal Verifiers Regularly reviewing our Equality and Diversity across our higher education courses and are occupationally competent and meet the policy, to help us continue to support the programmes. national standards of the awarding bodies and College internal verification and moderation College’s overarching mission ‘Empowerment guidance. through learning.’ Continuing and extending staff development activities, in order to create a more distinctive Continuing to provide sustainable, clearly By 2023, we confidently estimate that there will community of higher education practitioners. articulated processes for monitoring and be at least 250 full-time students enrolled on reviewing programmes that address UK quality Higher Education programmes, here at Expanding and consolidating the development threshold academic standards. Macclesfield College. In economic terms, this of peer observation of teaching. equates to just over £1 million of Higher Education Introducing additional measures to check income. Using the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) timely receipt of, and response to, external more effectively, in order to enhance learner examiner reports. experience and accessibility meeting learner needs, whether in its design and/or content. Continuing to operate our Business Advisory Groups, which contains a membership drawn Continuing to publish course and study from regional employers, service providers programme handbooks that provide clear and community groups. 39 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 statsappendix:Layout 1 01/03/2019 13:13 Page 1

REGIONAL PROVIDER ANALYSIS

ESFA Funded Learners Aged 16-19 - All Subjects - ESFA Funded & Loan Adult Learners - 19-23 - All All Levels - Academic Year 2017-18 Subjects - All Levels - Academic Year 2017-18

ESFA Funded & Loan Adult Learners - All Ages - All ESFA Funded & Loan Adult Learners - 24+ - All Subjects - All Levels - Academic Year 2017-18 Subjects - All Levels - Academic Year 2017-18

40 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 statsappendix:Layout 1 28/02/2019 16:29 Page 2

ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - All Ages - All ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - Aged 16 to 18 - Subjects - All Levels - Academic Year 2017-18 All Subjects - All Levels - Academic Year 2017-18

ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - Aged 19 to 23 - ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - 24+ - All Subjects - All Subjects - All Levels - Academic Year 2017-18 All Levels - Academic Year 2017-18

41 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 statsappendix:Layout 1 01/03/2019 13:14 Page 3

REGIONAL PROVIDER ANALYSIS

ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - All Ages - All ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - Aged 16 to 18 - Subjects - Level 2 - Academic Year 2017-18 All Subjects - Level 2 - Academic Year 2017-18

ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - Aged 19 to 23 - ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - 24+ - All Subjects - All Subjects - Level 2 - Academic Year 2017-18 Level 2 - Academic Year 2017-18

42 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 statsappendix:Layout 1 06/03/2019 15:07 Page 4

ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - All Ages - All ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - Aged 16 to 18 - Subjects - Level 3 - Academic Year 2017-18 All Subjects - Level 3 - Academic Year 2017-18

ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - Aged 19 to 23 - ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - 24+ - All Subjects - All Subjects - Level 3 - Academic Year 2017-18 Level 3 - Academic Year 2017-18

43 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 statsappendix:Layout 1 01/03/2019 13:15 Page 5

REGIONAL PROVIDER ANALYSIS

ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - All Ages - All ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - Aged 16 to 18 - Subjects - Level 4+ - Academic Year 2017-18 All Subjects - Level 4+ - Academic Year 2017-18

ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - Aged 19 to 23 - ESFA Funded Apprenticeships - 24+ - All Subjects - All Subjects - Level 4+ - Academic Year 2017-18 Level 4+ - Academic Year 2017-18

44 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 statsappendix:Layout 1 28/02/2019 16:40 Page 6

Apprenticeships - All Ages Market Share / Ranking - Trend (last 3 Academic Years) by Funding Model

Academic Year Rank Macclesfield College Other Total Market Learners Learners Providers Share (%)

2017/18 1 250 1,150 189 18 2016/17 1 230 1,430 167 14 2015/16 2 160 1,410 165 10

Apprenticeships - Aged 16 to 18 Market Share / Ranking - Trend (last 3 Academic Years) by Funding Model

Academic Year Rank Macclesfield College Other Total Market Learners Learners Providers Share (%)

2017/18 2 90 320 90 22 2016/17 2 90 330 88 21 2015/16 2 70 340 88 17

Apprenticeships - Aged 19 to 23 Market Share / Ranking - Trend (last 3 Academic Years) by Funding Model

Academic Year Rank Macclesfield College Other Total Market Learners Learners Providers Share (%)

2017/18 1 60 300 102 16 2016/17 2 60 370 93 13 2015/16 2 50 420 93 10

45 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 statsappendix:Layout 1 01/03/2019 13:17 Page 7

REGIONAL LEARNER ANALYSIS

Apprenticeships - Aged 24+ Market Share / Ranking - Trend (last 3 Academic Years) by Funding Model

Academic Year Rank Macclesfield College Other Total Market Learners Learners Providers Share (%)

2017/18 1 110 530 114 17 2016/17 1 80 720 109 10 2015/16 1 50 660 110 6

Funded Learners - Aged 16 to 19 Market Share / Ranking - Trend (last 3 Academic Years) by Funding Model

Academic Year Rank Macclesfield College Other Total Market Learners Learners Providers Share (%)

2017/18 1 520 1,350 52 28 2016/17 1 620 1,350 58 31 2015/16 1 710 1,390 53 34

46 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 statsappendix:Layout 1 28/02/2019 16:43 Page 8

Adults (SFA Funded and Loans) - All Ages Market Share / Ranking - Trend (last 3 Academic Years) by Funding Model

Academic Year Rank Macclesfield College Other Total Market Learners Learners Providers Share (%)

2017/18 1 410 520 90 44 2016/17 1 360 650 94 36 2015/16 1 500 740 110 40

Adults (SFA Funded and Loans) - Aged 19 to 23 Market Share / Ranking - Trend (last 3 Academic Years) by Funding Model

Academic Year Rank Macclesfield College Other Total Market Learners Learners Providers Share (%)

2017/18 1 40 80 33 34 2016/17 1 50 110 41 32 2015/16 1 110 110 41 48

Adults (SFA Funded and Loans) - Aged 24+ Market Share / Ranking - Trend (last 3 Academic Years) by Funding Model

Academic Year Rank Macclesfield College Other Total Market Learners Learners Providers Share (%)

2017/18 1 360 440 82 45 2016/17 1 310 550 90 36 2015/16 1 390 630 98 38

47 Strategic Planning Document: 2018-2023 strata4pagesgovernorandamamends:Layout 1 28/02/2019 16:46 Page 48

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