East of England
The region known as the East of England has a population running to just over 5.7 million and covers an area stretching from the borders of north and east London to the north Norfolk coast and the Wash. The region has a diverse economy, with the public sector coming in as its largest employer, followed by the catering and hospitality and the financial services sectors. Manufacturing industries, transport and communications, construction and agriculture are also significant employers.
Around 6% of the population (just under 358,000) is made up 16 – 19 year olds but, while the overall population is expected to grow over the next ten years, their numbers are expected to decline by more 20,000.
In 2009/10 the region had:
- School sixth forms 225
- Further education colleges (including sixth form colleges) 34
- Other providers delivering foundation learning programmes 22
- Academies 16
- Independent specialist providers 3
A large number of these and others also deliver Apprenticeships to 16-18 year olds.
The region comprises 11 local authorities and three Sub-regional Groupings(SRG) have been established here to support the planning and commissioning process.
