This conference looked at the challenges part-time study in higher education will have to face and brought together Vice-Chancellors and Pro Vice-Chancellors, Heads of Departments and other senior decision makers from across the sector. Delegates heard about and debated the changes to ELQ funding, encouraging participation in part-time study and building collaborative provision with employers to deliver responsive and flexible qualifications leading to better employability. DIUS stated aim is to have 40% of the working population educated to level 4 by 2020, up from 31%. The DIUS select committee is voicing concerns about government reducing ELQ funding which presents HEIs with increased challenges in delivering on the skills agenda and government targets.