Following the development of a new Corporate Plan, Birmingham City University are refocusing their efforts to develop a vibrant Research and Enterprise Strategy that will actively support the Regional Economy and underpin a robust drive for Research and Enterprise income. To ensure decisions and effort are prioritised in those areas that will have maximum effect, Birmingham City University has requested that the Regional Observatory coordinate a research study that will facilitate sound thinking and support strategic decision making and curriculum development by Birmingham City University. As part of this LES was commissioned to undertake an in depth consultation exercise with employers and stakeholders within the Health and Quality of Life– including NHS, supply chain and third sector; and Low Carbon sectors. This work is being undertaken in conjunction with a wider programme of work with the Regional Observatory and Vector Research.

Support developing a Lifelong Learning Erasmus Proposal on behalf of Newman University College.

This project involved a detailed analysis of provision in the whole of Wiltshire and Swindon LSC area using up to date ILR/ISR data for all FE colleges. The work undertaken was designed to support the LSC Strategic Area Review (StAR) process.

The purpose of the research project was to provide analytical and consultancy support in identifying ways that Salisbury College could improve its performance. A particular focus of the research was to understand much more about the profile of learners from Salisbury attending FE Colleges outside the District. The research also sought to inform options for attracting learners to the College, both from within Salisbury District and outside the area.

The project was initiated by CoNEL in response to the outcomes of an Ofsted inspection. The research involved extensive use of both Individual Student Record (ISR) and Individual Learner Record (ILR) data to identify changing spatial patterns of student intake over three years. A second phase of work involving the development of a predictive management tool tailored to the needs of CONEL that enabled projections of future student numbers and profiles to be undertaken in relation to different local scenarios.

The research involved a detailed analysis of the retention of graduates to local employment markets focusing on the Birmingham and Solihull area, using available data sources. A particular focus of the research was to determine how successful the West Midlands region and Birmingham and Solihull have been in attracting and retaining graduates within their respective labour markets.