DfE Update further education: 14 October 2026
Published 14 October 2026
Applies to England
© Crown copyright 2026
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1. Action: Financial data collection dry run 2026 to 2027 Quarter 2 launched
The data collection workbook and further education (FE) financial data dry run guidance have now been issued for colleges to complete.
This data will be collected quarterly with a monthly profile. The deadline for the Quarter 2 (July to September 2026) submission is Friday 20 November 2026.
Further guidance on the submission process will be provided in due course. It is important to ensure the workbook is signed off by the accounting officer before submission.
You can watch our previous webinars to support you when completing the workbook.
We are also hosting a series of 45-minute drop-in support sessions throughout the Quarter 2 collection period (October to November 2026), which you may find helpful. See the ‘Events and Webinars’ section below for dates and how to sign up.
For any queries, please consult the guidance in the first instance before contacting the Customer Help Portal.
2. Information: Adult skills fund – funding confirmed for up to 10% over-delivery
As set out in the 2025 to 2026 funding rules, any delivery above a provider’s allocation remains subject to affordability and the relevant assurance and track record checks.
We are pleased to confirm that eligible adult skills fund delivery of up to 10% above your allocation will be funded for the 2025 to 2026 funding year.
We will calculate payments after we have received and reviewed R14 and final funding claims.
Providers should continue to ensure that:
- the individualised learner record and funding claim data is accurate
- all delivery is fully evidenced
3. Events and webinars: Submit financial data for FE colleges – Quarter 2 drop-in support sessions
- Tuesday 27 October, from 10.30am
- Tuesday 10 November, from 2.30pm
- Thursday 19 November, from 10.30am