Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) – Information for Employers – Please give your views (2 minute survey)
What is Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE)?
In a nutshell, and in the context of providing employers with higher skills training packages for employees, LLE consists of Higher Education modules from high value technical courses delivered as standalone training opportunities for employees or individuals. Scheduled to start in 2027, LLE training packages will be fully funded via a loan system, so there will be no cost for employers.
At the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, we are developing three pathways to deliver employer / employee-focused, short, higher skills programmes at Wakefield, Selby and Castleford Colleges.
We are seeking feedback from employers as part of our application process to become a provider of choice in the region.
Our ambition is to deliver flexible, blended (a mix of face to face, online and remote directed research) programmes so that they are easily accessible to all adults, especially when they are employed.
The government’s ambition is for every adult, with the aptitude and the desire, to get the support they need to pursue higher-level learning. It wants to give employers and learners a real choice in life, and not to feel like there is only one route, or one shot at success. Many learners need to access courses in a more flexible way, to fit study around work, family and personal commitments in response to employers’ needs.
The LLE funding will be available to all potential employees / learners. LLE tuition loans will be available for people up to the age of 60. Learners who are over 60 may still qualify for maintenance support, though not a tuition fee loan.
Heart of Yorkshire Education Group offer
At the Group, we are planning to deliver LLE higher skills modules in three priority areas: Engineering, Construction and Digital:
Engineering – Level 4 Renewable Energy and Net Zero
This level 4 training programme focuses on renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro, nuclear, biomass, hydrogen) and net zero strategies (post-combustion carbon capture, heat pumps, heat recovery). It combines theoretical learning with practical experiments, including data collection from solar assemblies, wind speed analysis, carbon capture rigs, and heat transfer systems. Learners will design experiments, analyse real-world data, and produce reports.
The rationale emphasises the urgent need for renewable energy development and carbon dioxide removal to meet climate targets. Including carbon capture and heat pump technologies aligns with industry trends and government policies, equipping learners with future-proof skills relevant to companies like Drax Power and Enfinium.
Teaching methods are predominantly practical, supported by research and discussions on global applicability, ethics, and diversity. The approach ensures learners gain hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment, reinforcing theoretical concepts and preparing them for evolving engineering roles.
The programme will consist of two units of study delivered over 90 hours.
Construction – Level 4 Digital Applications for Construction
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is often assumed to be a software solution – a more advanced form of CAD, for producing construction information. However, while software can play an important part, BIM is actually an approach to information generation and management in a collaborative environment. The aim of BIM is to ensure that better information is created, shared and kept secure so that the design, construction, occupation, and maintenance of our built assets can be more efficiently managed.
In short, BIM is a collaborative approach that involves a clearly defined set of processes. The aim of this module is to provide the background knowledge and understanding of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the context of the construction industry.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) and the use of data in the planning, construction and operation of built assets has become commonplace for both large and small projects. The ability to manage projects throughout their lifecycle, using a common data set, has the potential to impact on the built environment in numerous ways such as supporting efficiency, reducing costs and driving sustainability. This module explores the key processes in using digital applications to produce data and construction information that will enable the BIM process. Through completion of this unit, there may be the opportunity to achieve vendor certification in industry-standard Building Information Modelling systems
The programme will consist of two units of study delivered over 90 hours.
Computing and Digital – Level 4 Introduction to Networks and Cyber Security
This upskilling higher skills programme provides a comprehensive foundation in networking principles and cybersecurity practices, designed to equip students with essential technical knowledge for modern computing environments.
Based on two modules that focus on networking fundamentals and security with an emphasis on understanding the theory and practical skills in configuring and troubleshooting network devices and understanding network performance optimisation.
The course then develops into cybersecurity, examining threats, vulnerabilities, and protective measures essential for securing digital assets. Students explore various attack vectors, including malware, phishing, and social engineering, alongside defence strategies such as firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems.
Together, these units prepare students for careers in network administration, cybersecurity analysis, and IT infrastructure management.
The programme will consist of two units of study delivered over 90 hours.
Feedback from Employers
In order to finalise our offer, we would value employers’ feedback to support our development plan.
If you would like to help us, please complete the Microsoft Form by clicking on the link below – it will only take two minutes of your time:
Employers feedback form – Lifelong Learning Entitlement at Heart of Yorkshire – Fill in form
Thank you for your co-operation.