The Journey Not the Destination: Support Based on the 'Student Lifecycle' Approach

A paper from the HEA Annual Conference 2009.

Foundation degrees (Fds) were set up in 2001/02 as two-year intermediate work-related qualifications designed in conjunction with employers to meet skills shortages in the workforce. Offered by higher education institutions (HEIs) in partnership with further education colleges (FECs) Fds offer flexible study methods making them accessible to those in employment those without jobs and/or those seeking a change in their career.