About Colleges West Midlands
Colleges West Midlands (CWM) is a strategic partnership of further education colleges across the region.
Formed in 2017—originally as the Further Education Skills and Productivity Group (FESPG)—CWM was created to respond collectively to the opportunities presented by the devolution of adult skills and to work in close collaboration with the West Midlands Combined Authority. CWM’s remit is now much broader, extending to position for young people, inclusion, green skills, and sustainability.
What is our mission?
To strengthen the West Midlands economy and improve the lives of its people by unlocking the power of education and skills. Through a collaborative, region-wide approach, we deliver high-quality, post-16 learning that meets the needs of individuals and businesses.
What is our vision?
We’re building a future where every individual, community, and business in the West Midlands can access inclusive, relevant, and responsive further education.
Our vision is to:
- Empower individuals to achieve their goals, grow in their careers, and embrace lifelong learning.
- Help the West Midlands become a national leader in skills development.
- Support businesses with a pipeline of talented, work-ready people.
- Ensure our colleges are well-respected, financially sustainable, and great places to work and learn.
Working together
As a collective, we achieve more than any one college could alone. Through CWM, we:
- Speak with one voice to promote further education and influence regional and national policy.
- Plan and deliver together to offer a cohesive, region-wide skills offer.
- Share knowledge and resources to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth.
- Partner strategically with business and government to shape a skills system that works for everyone.
