We’re excited to share that the latest updates to our Vector insight platform will be launching later this month – bringing a range of powerful new features and the latest data to all subscribing colleges.
Used by over 80% of Further Education Colleges in England, Vector is the go-to tool for supporting curriculum planning, market analysis, and strategic decision-making. These upcoming enhancements are designed to give you even greater insight into local demand, skills needs, and learner trends.
What’s new in this release?
Here’s a preview of what’s being rolled out in the late September 2025 update:
- 2024/25 data updates – providing access to the most up-to-date picture of post-16 learning in your local area and 5-year trends for deeper analysis and insight.
- Integrated Travel Time Analysis and Market Share Mapping – analyse the impact of local transport barriers or competition on your college’s market share with our enhanced mapping tools that combine travel time analysis with market share and demographic data.
- Enhanced Adult Learner Insights – more targeted and detailed insight into adult learner participation and opportunity across different funding streams.
- National and Local Skills Priorities – explore and demonstrate how your college’s curriculum aligns to skills needs, by mapping against national IS8 and local LSIP priority sectors.
Free Training Webinars
Book Your Place for a live demo of the latest updates
To help you get the most out of the new features, we’re running a series of free live training webinars. These sessions will cover:
- A full demonstration of the new features
- Refresher training on core Vector functionality
- Practical examples of how Vector supports curriculum and business planning
Whether you’re a new user or an experienced one, the webinars are a great opportunity to get up to speed and ask questions.
Upcoming Webinar Dates:
- Wednesday 24th September 12 pm – Register here
- Wednesday 15th October 12 pm – Register here
- Wednesday 5th November 12 pm – Register here
Tailored Consultancy Support – Powered by Data, Designed Around You
In addition to Vector, RCU also offers bespoke consultancy support to help colleges solve challenges, uncover new opportunities, and plan for the future.
Our team of data experts works closely with college partners to deliver tailored insights that go beyond the platform, including:
- Travel-to-learn analysis – exploring learner recruitment, local trends, competition, and demand
- Curriculum data packs – to support annual planning and reviews
- Learner projections – by subject area, built using independent modelling
- Skills provision mapping – including dedicated work focused on green skills and priority sectors
- Estate Planning – providing an evidence base to inform the college’s estate strategy
Take a look at a few recent examples here: Case Studies – RCU Research & Market Intelligence, Further Education & Skills Sector
If you’d like to talk to our team about the upcoming updates or tailored support, feel free to get in touch – we’re always happy to help!