History

The Lifelong Learning Network (LLN) initiative was introduced in 2004 by the Higher Education Funding Council for England, the Learning and Skills Council and the Department for Education & Skills. The then Chief Executive of HEFCE Sir Howard Newby explained the idea behind the LLN initiative as “an attempt to create networks of institutions… which would typically link colleges and HEIs across a city, region or area” and would provide an opportunity to offer “a wide-ranging curriculum” that would combine “the strengths of further and higher education” (Colin Bell Memorial Lecture: 30th March 2004).

The primary aim of these networks is to develop “a joint strategy to advance vocational and workplace progression into and through higher education” (HEFCE Circular letter number 12/2004).

The LLN for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight was set up in August 2006 and is funded until November 2009.