At NCFE, we are committed to positive change. From empowering learners to strengthening communities, you can see the evidence of our impact through the powerful stories and insights that shape who we are and what we do.
We reflect on our performance and impact in the further education sector annually. We are proud of the progress we have made, and we are keen to share inspirational stories to show where we have made a difference throughout the year.
We also recognise the areas where we drive even greater improvements. Showcasing both our strengths and the opportunities we see for growth ensures that our influence is used not only to benefit learners but to advocate for meaningful, long-term change across the entire education landscape.
Read our previous Social Impact Reports to learn about our impact over the last four years:
learners registered with NCFE in 2024/25.
invested in innovative partnerships and initiatives.
of our providers are located in the UK's most deprived areas.
Lucas is an exceptional learner on the Level 1/2 Technical Award in Health and Fitness, demonstrating consistent commitment across both theory and practical elements, and is on track to achieve excellent results.
Born with Spina Bifida and congenital hydrocephalus, Lucas lives with complex medical needs, including partial paralysis of his lower limbs, and loss of skin sensation. These challenges affect multiple areas of his development, including physical ability, learning, and independence. Over the years, he has undergone numerous surgeries, most recently to remove part of his spine.
Watch Lucas’s inspirational story to see how our qualifications can empower learners to pursue their ambitions in education, no matter the barriers they face.
I’m proud of what I’ve gone through to get to this stage. I know I’ve worked very hard to get to where I am.
At the heart of our purpose to promote and advance learning is a commitment to making sure no learner is left behind. The Social Impact Fund (SIF) supports this by giving NCFE colleagues the chance to apply for funding for causes that matter to them. The initiatives funded through the SIF are wide ranging, but always have the same values and mission at its core.
of providers state learners are well prepared for future-learning.
of institutions report strong relationships with NCFE.
of our providers believe NCFE learners positively impact society.
One of the most important impacts NCFE identified in our Theory of Change model is ensuring our learners go on to progress in their lives into employment or continuing education. Primary research as part of our impact study shows 85% of providers feel their learners will be prepared for further learning opportunities, with 40% saying . Recent analysis of data from UCAS (University and Colleges Admission Service) shows that some of our learners studying vocational and technical qualifications (excluding T Levels) go on to apply to study HE. Two of the most significant findings relate to socioeconomic background, using measures that indicate levels of deprivation and disadvantage.
Not only does NCFE reach learners based in the UK, we’re also growing our presence globally. We’re building a strong reputation across the world, with a particular presence in Asia and the Middle East specifically through our early years education courses.
Senior International and Develoved Nations Manager, Mike Potts recently spoke with Dr Samia Kazi, founder of Arabian Child, a provider in the UAE, to discuss the impact of NCFE's qualifications on the education landscape in the Middle East. Watch the video below to find out more.
Campaign for Learning (CfL) is a division of NCFE with a purpose to promote and advance learning, helping to create a fairer, more inclusive society. Their vision is a society where everyone has access to high quality learning opportunities, where everyone values learning and where people are inspired and supported to take up learning, so they become successful lifelong learners. The case for lifelong learning is well established. We are likely to be happier, healthier, longer living and wealthier if we are active learners. We benefit as individuals, families, employers and communities when learning helps us to adapt, build resilience and solve the challenges we face.
Read more about CfL’s impact through their website and 2025 impact report
