Cumbria Higher Learning
Cumbria Higher Learning (CHL)
The vision of Cumbria Higher Learning| is to ensure the provision of progression opportunities into higher education by working in partnership for Cumbria.
Its mission is to enhance the ability of individuals and businesses in Cumbria to contribute to an enterprising knowledge-based economy, through the development of a collaborative network of providers offering countywide guaranteed progression routes into higher education for all learners.
Therefore Cumbria Higher Learning focuses on progression, vocational learners and associated questions of curriculum development and employer engagement. It is an important forum for securing the co-operation of all higher education providers in ensuring the best use of resources for complementary provision of higher education across the region.
Cumbria Higher Learning works closely with a wide variety of stakeholders to ensure that employers’ skills needs are met in each area. It works with colleagues working on the 14-19 Agenda to ensure that the vocational packages offered will link seamlessly with courses available at university centres. Progression from FE Level 3 work is enhanced into higher level work through the development of Level 4 curriculum, again at the local level.
Cumbria Higher Learning draws on the expertise of Lancaster University and the University of Central Lancashire to provide opportunities for progression into areas that the University of Cumbria cannot offer. Bridging and access programmes offer guaranteed progression opportunities and advice and guidance is offered so that students are clear about study decisions they are taking. A distinctive aspect of the work is the accreditation of work-based learning to recognise transferability of skills, where appropriate, between industries and between courses.
Cumbria Higher Learning, working through facilities at the FE Colleges, provides progression opportunities for groups of learners who would not otherwise be able to study because of geographical constraints and help to break down the cultural barriers against participation in higher education. Cumbria Higher Learning brings together a network of providers to deliver cost-effective and sustainable ways of working.