Funding guarantee for student growth is very welcome, says AoC

David Hughes, Chief Executive, Association of Colleges, said: "As a sector, we fight for this funding year after year. This year, it feels like we have been listened to, because the position for 2026/27 is that the DfE is guaranteeing to fully-fund the formula they use on in-year student numbers above the lagged numbers. It means that colleges will be able to enrol every learner they can support this year ahead, helping thousands more young people to progress in learning that will help them, ultimately, to find work and reduce the risks of even higher NEET numbers. We are predicting at least 25,000 extra students to be enrolled in colleges this autumn and for many colleges, this could easily be hundreds of young people.

"It doesn't go as far as we would like because the government really should be guaranteeing the full funding of every learner, if it is serious about reducing the NEET numbers. However, it is a step in the right direction and very welcome. "