TECs: Are They Cost‐effective? Available to Purchase

Addresses the question of how TECs′ outputs can be accurately estimated and analysed so that a balanced evaluation of the effectiveness and cost‐efficiency of their programmes can be made. Proposes an approach involving comparisons between “model TECs”, “unreformed TECs” and private‐sector providers of similar programmes and services, which overcomes the dearth of official data on TEC management costs. Contends that TECs at their best are in need of further reform in the direction of private‐sector disciplines, and that the majority of TECs are under‐performing, overstaffed and overpriced compared with other providers of training, enterprise and consultancy services. Concludes by explaining how a potential annual saving of £255 million could be made by reforming the TEC system nationally.