Cogent is working to ensure fit-for-purpose industry-led Foundation Degrees and has already held a series of consultations with representatives from the petrochemical, polymer and  nuclear industries.   In addition, funding from fdf (Foundation Degree Forward) will support research into the need for Foundation Degrees for the Energy Sector in the East of England.

Foundation Degrees are an ideal vehicle for upskilling the existing workforce – particularly for apprentices and technicians working at Level 3. Indeed Cogent research has revealed that employers see Foundation Degrees (FDs) as flexible upskilling programmes with  tremendous potential to meet their higher level skills needs.

Foundation Degrees mean that employees can “learn while they earn”. They are very flexible as modularised content can be selected on a cumulative ‘pick and mix’ basis and delivered in a variety of ways (including day release, on-line and distance delivery).

Liz Johnson, Cogent Skills Director who is managing the project said: “Foundation Degrees are ideal for employees. They can continue to do their job while gaining new skills and broadening their career horizons. Employers in turn appreciate the flexibility of these qualifications and the higher level skills they bring to the workplace".

If you would like to know more about how Foundation Degrees are developing in your industry contact liz.johnson@cogent-ssc.com.