New Pearson report reveals how colleges are shaping the future of life and learning

A new study from Pearson is shining a spotlight on what life and learning look like in further education today, and how colleges are adapting to meet changing expectations.

The report, Perspectives on Life and Learning in Further Education, captures the voices of more than 2000 students and tutors across UK colleges. It explores the challenges and opportunities shaping college life, from cost-of-living pressures and mental health to digital learning, AI and employability skills.

Capital City College contributed to this report, which reveals both the optimism and the hurdles facing the sector. Further education colleges play a vital role in helping young people develop the skills, resilience, and opportunities they need to succeed and this report shows how that role is evolving.

Key findings

• 75% of students feel confident using technology to support their learning.
• 43% of tutors say they lack confidence using AI, and nearly six in ten want more training to help students use it responsibly.
• 65% of students feel ready to move on to their next stage of learning or work – but tutors are less certain.

In the foreword to the report, Angela Joyce, CEO of Capital City College Group, said:

“This report finds some of the biggest factors impacting student success relate to worries about finances and job prospects, which affect their mental health and ultimately their academic performance.

“Colleges may be the smallest part of England’s education system, but they have the largest reach across the population to drive social mobility. With college students almost three times more likely to be worried about money than school students, there is a clear challenge for colleges across the country to address the factors affecting students’ mental health.”

Despite these challenges, the findings illustrate a sector full of innovation and optimism. Colleges across the UK are embracing digital tools, building closer partnerships with employers and helping students develop the transferable skills they need for life and work.

Angela also highlighted the recent move of the skills and apprenticeships portfolio to the Department for Work & Pensions, calling for a more joined-up approach to national skills policy to ensure colleges can provide what students and apprentices need most: support, investment, mentoring, guidance, expert tuition, and opportunities for personal growth.

The full report is available online.

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