In response to the Adult Learning Inspectorate's report, Judith Norrington, Director of Curriculum and Quality at Association of Colleges, commented: "This is the first time that 3,000 private training providers have been subject to the same public inspection demands as colleges. While inspection reports so far show that 95% of lessons in colleges are satisfactory or better, it is very clear that private training providers have a long way to go to match this level of quality.

"At the same time, we share with employers their concern about the courses which are on offer. Colleges know that many of their students and employers want shorter course which better fit their needs. At the moment, inflexible Government funding systems make it impossible for colleges to offer such courses. That inevitably impacts on quality measures such as student retention and achievement."