Our latest report, available now, is the result of research undertaken for the British Council who commissioned Edge Foundation and the Association of Colleges to examine transnational education (TNE) models in the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) sector, identify practices, and provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, practitioners and stakeholders in TVET systems globally. There is a wide range of TNE models in TVET - FE colleges use multiple models tailored to their expertise, resources, and opportunities and these models reflect the agility and responsiveness that skills development offers, including the co-development of training with home and host stakeholders.
The research explores TNE in TVET modes and activities. It then presents the themes that have emerged from interviews with experts and practitioners, covering the value and outcomes of TNE activities, the challenges and the opportunities. The report acts as an opening chapter to document TNE in TVET delivery and provides a framework to explore and expand further activity. It can provide a platform for the British Council to gain valuable insights into the TVET TNE landscape and structure in the UK and globally, whilst providing an opportunity to strengthen systems, create connections and exchange knowledge and learning. Technical and Vocational Education and Training is critical for fostering skills development, enhancing employability, and driving economic growth. A key finding is that the FE sector needs greater recognition and support to offer TNE in TVET.
Nina Chorzelewski, Policy Manager, Association of Colleges"This report shines a light on the vital role the FE sector plays in advancing transnational education and supporting the growth of TVET systems worldwide. It also highlights the valuable opportunities that delivering TNE presents for UK providers. Conducting research in this underexplored area has been a real privilege, especially in a landscape that can often be complex and challenging. By drawing on examples of best practice from across the sector, we hope the findings and recommendations will help strengthen and build on the outstanding work already being done by colleges within global skills systems."
The British Council commissioned this piece of work as part of the British Council Going Global Partnerships (GGP) programme. The GGP spans across higher education and technical and vocational education and training. It provides opportunities for governments, national sector bodies, higher education and TVET institutions, researchers, academics and students in tertiary education around the world to collaborate and partner with the UK.
Transnational Education – education delivered by institutions in one country to learners in another – has emerged as a potential model to support the internationalisation of education, including TVET. While significant work has been done in TNE for the Higher Education sector, limited research has explored its relevance and impact within the TVET systems. Recognising the untapped potential, the British Council commissioned this research to focus on TNE exclusively within the TVET space.
Report written by
Katherine Emms, Nina Chorzelewski, Jo Pretty, Lucy Chrispin, Andrea Laczik and Emma Meredith.