The PTE (private training establishment) sector expressed its concern today at the impact of the Government’s funding
moratorium on innovation in tertiary education.
“This decision will put the brakes on innovation. It will make it harder for PTEs to respond to niche employer,
community and student needs, by not allowing us to introduce new courses, “said John Reynolds, spokesperson for PTEs
receiving EFTS student subsidies. “While the moratorium will not be a disaster for the sector, it will slow us down and
it will reduce new opportunities for students.”
“We would, however, like to reassure students and other stakeholders of the PTE sector that existing programmes will
continue to attract student subsidies. The Government subsidises over 20,000 students per year in PTEs, and it is
important that those students know that their places are secure. ”
“We are comforted that this is an interim moratorium and that the TEAC process has been allowed to go its course. At
the end of that process, we look forward to maintaining our place as a responsive, high quality grouping within the
wider tertiary education sector.”
Ends