Strategically important subjects: land-based studies
The strategically important subjects advisory group designated land-based studies (LBS) as vulnerable in 2005. We completed a review of LBS in April 2007, which found no immediate threat to the sustainability of LBS provision in England. In response to this, the HEFCE board agreed that the subject should no longer be deemed vulnerable.
Acting on key recommendations of the review, in July 2008 we announced a £4.5 million package, designed to enable new services to land-based businesses, including work-based learning, training and continuing professional development.
Review of land-based studies
The review of LBS followed its designation as a vulnerable subject. At this time, we established an LBS advisory group to oversee, and coordinate the review and agree its terms of reference.
The review undertook a comprehensive study of existing higher education provision in LBS in England. It found that, so far, organisations have been able to respond to market needs, and that, though the potential for vulnerability is strong, the discipline is not yet vulnerable. To mitigate the risk of vulnerability, the review also recommended the most appropriate ways of supporting land-based subjects. The LBS advisory group, chaired by Maggie Gill, endorsed these findings.
Work already carried out by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), in partnership with a number of stakeholders, was taken into account throughout the review.
Review of land-based studies (May 2007)
Events
HEFCE hosted two meetings on 17 December 2007 following the review's recommendation that HEFCE discuss the national requirements for LBS courses, which are most relevant to national policy priorities, with key national and UK stakeholders:
- The first meeting discussed ways to strengthen current teaching provision so that it meets national needs. The meeting was attended by representatives from HEFCE's learning and teaching team, Lantra, HEFCW, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the LSC, the Regional Development Agencies, and the chair of the Land-based Studies Review Advisory Group.
- The second meeting focussed on ways HE funders can co-ordinate existing research funding more effectively to support LBS. The meeting was attended by representatives from HEFCE's research team, Lantra, HEFCW, DEFRA, the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, the Applied Research Forum for Farming and Food, and the chair of the Land-based Studies Review Advisory Group.
Brief notes from the meetings are available:
How to strengthen current provision to ensure it meets national needs
[ MS Word 44K | Zipped MS Word 9K ]
Discussion to improve the co-ordination of research funding
[ MS Word 46K | Zipped MS Word 9K ]
Summary Paper
HEFCE has produced a paper summarising its work since the LBS review, outlining progress and recommendations for the subject.
Land-based studies review: overview of HEFCE's project
[ MS Word 124K | Zipped MS Word 30K ]
Further information
Further information is available from Paul Hazell , tel 0117 931 7452, e-mail p.hazell@hefce.ac.uk.
Last updated 24 October 2008