When: 21-22 May 2008

Where: The Hilton Hotel, Cardiff

Who: A senior lineup of speakers including:

• Chris Humphries CBE, Chief Executive of the UK Commission for Employment and Skills
• Sir Adrian Webb, Chair of the Wales Employment and Skills Board and author of Promise and Performance
• John Griffiths AM, Deputy Minister for Skills
• John Stone, Chief Executive, Learning and Skills Network
• Dr William Maxwell, Chief Inspector, Estyn

Of interest to:

• senior teaching and non-teaching college personnel (principals; senior and middle managers)
• governors managers whose roles include supporting learning
• members of 14-19 partnerships
• individuals and organisations wishing to establish links with the FE sector
• employers interested in establishing and/or strengthening links with FE
• policy makers in the Welsh Assembly Government departments and public bodies

Why: fforwm's annual conference, now in its 15th year, will consider policies on skills, pedagogy and change management; the raising of standards; and the role of FE in engaging with employers and in delivering the Welsh Assembly Government's economic development policies.

The conference will:

• identify emerging themes, initiatives and trends and their possible implications on colleges
• identify factors which might inhibit FE's ability to be responsive and flexible to the Welsh Assembly Government's vision and remit
• reflect upon political, policy and curriculum developments within the last year
• share best practice with a view to raising standards
• establish new collaborative partnerships, and celebrate FE's success

How to book: E: secretariat@fforwm.ac.uk or T: 029 2074 1800 for conference programme and booking form.

Notes to editors:

1. Media contact: Sylvia Davies T: 029 2074 1835; M: 07968 771913; E: Sylvia.davies@fforwm.ac.uk

2. fforwm is the national organisation representing all 25 further education (FE) colleges and institutions in Wales. It is an educational charity and a company limited by guarantee. fforwm's Board comprises college principals and chairs of corporations, appointed by member colleges. It provides a range of services to its members including networks, conferences, research, consultancy and the sharing of good practice. It also works closely with a wide range of partners in post-16 education and training. Through fforwm, colleges are represented on various committees, working parties and other groups influencing and shaping policy in post-16 education and life-long learning.

3. For further information about fforwm, and the colleges it represents, visit www.fforwm.ac.uk