University Centre Peterborough Among First Wave of Providers for the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE)

University Centre Peterborough, part of Inspire Education Group (IEG), has been confirmed as one of the first Higher Education providers in the UK to deliver under the new Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) initiative. A major milestone in the Government’s vision to make higher education more flexible, accessible and responsive to employer needs.

Only Higher Education providers with Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Silver recognition and Office for Students (OfS) registration are part of this initial delivery group, marking University Centre’s inclusion as a significant achievement that highlights the quality of provision and outstanding student outcomes.

Launching from January 2027, the LLE will allow individuals to access funding for modular study, enabling those already in employment to enhance their skills and knowledge in areas such as business development, artificial intelligence, cyber security, counselling, research, and more. 

University Centre Peterborough has already re-designed its degree provision to ensure flexibility for this new model of learning and is inviting employers to collaborate in developing modular pathways that respond directly to workforce needs.

Liz Knight, Academic Director at University Centre Peterborough, said:

“The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a significant development, and being in the first wave of approved HE providers is a great testament to the quality of UCP provision and our excellent student outcomes. The ability to study funded modules in specific subjects means that those in employment can upskill and improve their career progression.

“It also means that mature learners or those wishing to try higher education before committing to a full degree can do so. Our proactive approach to working with employers, students, and alumni is key to making the LLE a success and ensuring our offer addresses skills gaps and prepares students for the ever-changing employment market.”

University Centre Peterborough celebrated over 80% of graduates achieving a 2:1 or above at its recent graduation, with the Mayors of Peterborough, the Combined Authority, and Stamford in attendance. Photo: Peter Oliver Photography

As part of the Inspire Education Group, which also includes Peterborough College and Stamford College, University Centre Peterborough offers a comprehensive learning journey for students, spanning from Level 1 to Level 7. This unique structure enables the Group to provide cohesive training and education pathways tailored to both individual learners and employer demand across the region.

As IEG was named Large Business of the Year and Training Provider of the Year at recent business awards across Peterborough and Stamford, this development further strengthens the Group’s commitment to driving regional skills growth and economic development through education and collaboration.

Find out more about University Centre Peterborough here.