Updates Approved for ASF Assurance Framework
The latest revisions to the ASF Assurance Framework have been submitted for approval, incorporating significant administrative updates and adjustments aligned with new governance structures and funding powers. These changes reflect ongoing efforts to enhance educational frameworks across London, with a focus on technical qualifications and stakeholder engagement.
Administrative and Structural Amendments
The updated version of the Framework has undergone various administrative revisions, including references to the relevant academic year and ensured that hyperlinks lead to the most current documents. Notably, modifications have been made to align the Framework with the new delegation of functions defined in the Additional Letter and the updated Memorandum of Understanding concerning the delegation of the ASF in London, which was approved under decision MD3349.
This new delegation includes additional funding capabilities for technical qualifications, aligned with the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009. This delegation is set to be effective from August 2025 and will facilitate financial resources for approved technical education qualifications.
Integration of the Department for Education
Significant changes have also been introduced in light of the Education & Skills Funding Agency’s (ESFA) integration into the Department for Education (DfE). References to the ESFA have been systematically replaced with DfE throughout the document to ensure consistency and relevance.
Updates to Governance Framework
Chapter One of the Framework, which deals with governance and decision-making, has been revised to reflect the internal governance strategies pertinent to the Supporting Londoners to Benefit from Growth (SLBG) programme. Additionally, stakeholder advisory boards have been updated, as further changes are anticipated during the year.
In line with the DfE’s directives, funding for the Free Courses for Jobs (FCfJ) initiative will no longer be designated as ring-fenced, allowing for a wider range of financial expenditure.
Transition to New Stakeholder Advisory Structure
As of 31 August 2025, the Skills for Londoners Board and the Jobs & Skills Business Partnership will cease to operate. Consequently, references to these entities have been omitted from the Framework. A new skills, employment, and careers advisory forum is to be established, reporting to the Growth Mission Board, aiming to facilitate workforce development in London, including the implementation of relevant strategic plans.
The formulation of this forum is expected to enhance consultation with stakeholders, replacing previous advisory bodies with a structure that better aligns with current objectives.
Future Amendments and Stakeholder Engagement
Once the new advisory forum is operational, any further modifications arising from the new arrangements will be incorporated into the ASF Assurance Framework. These adjustments will be presented to the ASF Mayoral Board for decision before public availability.
The Greater London Authority (GLA) will also continue to engage with prior stakeholders from the now-defunct boards during a transition period. A transitional board may convene informally until the new forum is set up, ensuring stakeholder expertise is retained for the future.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.london.gov.uk/md3403-adult-skills-fund-assurance-and-governance-2025-26
