This seminal study investigates the use of the EFQM Excellence Model[R] in the UK Further Education sector. Following initial interviews with Senior Managers and Quality Consultants, an online survey was sent to Principals and Senior Managers in all Colleges across the UK to critically investigate the relationship between the use of the Model and "culture change". The results indicated a positive correlation between use of the Model in FE Colleges and improved financial status, more transparent mechanisms to balance stakeholder expectations and improved mapping of processes and compliance. However, there was no significant difference in the achievement of top inspection grades or in raising staff morale. There are also significant differences in the use of the model in different regions of the UK. Therefore, transformational leaders should use the EFQM Excellence Model[R] over a long term to embed its underlying principles of Total Quality Management. (Contains 7 figures and 1 note.)