Digital Insight Hubs

About the programme

Digital inequality remains a significant challenge across the FE sector. Differences in access to technology, staff digital skills, and learner experiences create gaps that impact educational outcomes.

The Digital Insight Hub pilot programme aims to reduce these disparities by fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. By showcasing effective practices, mentoring peers, and hosting events, Insight Hubs are helping ensure that all colleges can benefit from innovative approaches and digital transformation.

The three colleges that were selected as the pilot hubs, through a highly competitive application process are:

• Basingstoke College of Technology
• Heart of Yorkshire Education Group
• South Staffordshire College.

Digital Insight Days

Between March and April 2026, each Digital Insight Hub hosted an in-person Digital Insight Day. These events allowed colleges to understand the journey each Hub has been on through digital transformation and the development of a strong digital culture, including honest reflections on successes and challenges faced along the way.

The Digital Insight Days were well attended, with 69 people from 47 colleges from across the country. The feedback and evaluation of the event was overwhelmingly positive. 96% of respondents stated that they were satisfied with the event. Attendees shared what was most useful. Key themes were:

• strong opportunities for collaboration and networking

• hearing authentic digital transformation journeys from staff and students

• clear leadership frameworks and strategy alignment.

We asked attendees to what extent they agreed with three statements regarding their confidence.

• 89% agreed that attending the Digital Insight Day increased their confidence in integrating digital learning technologies to enhance teaching and learning, student experience, and/or business operations

• 91% agreed that attending the Digital Insight Day increased their understanding of how digital learning technologies can be used effectively in their college

• 93% agreed that attending the Digital Insight Day increased their confidence in contributing to the strategic direction of digital technology in their college.

We are hoping to host more Digital Insight Days in the 26-27 academic year.

Mentoring

Mentoring is a core element of the Digital Insight Hubs programme, offering targeted one‑to‑one support to help colleges progress on their digital transformation journey. Through this strand of the programme, nine colleges will receive personalised guidance from experienced Hub mentors, with two dedicated online meetings between March and June 2026 to explore institutional challenges, share effective practice, and identify practical early actions that can drive meaningful change. This structured peer‑support model ensures colleges have a trusted space to ask questions, reflect openly, and build confidence as they develop their digital capabilities.

Find out more about mentoring