Education and Skills Across the Four Nations

We work with partners across the four nations to share best practice on how to shape policy in each of our local contexts. We do this through our research reports, our Four Nations Policy Network, and our work with the Four Nations College Alliance. We also work individually with each of the devolved governments through our popular workshop series bringing together policy makers, researchers, learners, employers and providers in each nation. For example, see below for more information about a series of workshops we hosted with Skills Development Scotland on the future of apprenticeships. If you would like to find out more, please email sgluck@edge.co.uk.

Our devolved policy network brings together civil servants and policy makers across the UK, providing a space to share current policy development and opportunities to collaborate.

Please click here to find out more about the network.

Read our short guide to FE and Skills Across the Four Nations. We update this document annually with the latest changes and publications in FE and skills policy across the UK. Last updated February 2025.

I am delighted that Edge have updated their excellent 'Four Nations' guide. It's such a valuable resource

Baroness Alison Wolf

This guide is an essential resource for anyone navigating the intricate world of further education and skills across the UK. When I began developing the programme for The College Alliance network, I found Edge's Four Nations Guide invaluable in offering a clear and concise overview of the distinct systems and policies in each nation. This updated edition brings the latest information to the forefront, making it even more useful.

Rachael Cochrane, Programme and Engagement Manager, College Alliance

This comprehensive guide offers crucial perspectives on how each nation approaches education and skill development differently, making it an essential tool for professionals in these key sectors. Understanding and staying updated with policy changes in further education helps Southern Regional College prepare students to meet the evolving demands of the workforce while ensuring our educational methods remain flexible and responsive to both learners and the economy.

Southern Regional College, Northern Ireland

FE and Skills across the Four Countries of the UK

Inspection across the UK: how the four nations intend to contribute to school improvement

Future of Apprenticeships with Skills Development Scotland

We hosted a series of workshops with Skills Development Scotland to discuss current and future trends, as well as innovations across the apprenticeships landscape in the UK.

Four Nations College Alliance

We work closely with colleagues at the Four Nations College Alliance to bring together FE leaders from across the UK.