FE News on the go

In part one of this inclusive professionalism ‘in conversation’ series with Dr Vikki Smith, Executive Director of Education and Standards at the Education and Training Foundation (ETF), and Ellisha Soanes, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) consultant, Vikki and Ellisha discuss social mobility and its importance in fostering inclusion in the Further Education (FE) and Skills sector. What does s...

In recent years degree apprenticeships have emerged as a promising avenue for higher education institutions and businesses, to collaborate and provide the perfect blend of academia with work experience for individuals it’s suited to. Not only do they offer students the chance to gain valuable work experience while obtaining a degree, they also provide the benefits of integrated learning with real-...

One in five students are dyslexic, showcasing incredible strengths in areas like creativity and problem-solving — Dyslexic Thinking skills which will be vital for future workplaces. However, our education system often fails to spot and support dyslexics, while traditional benchmarking measures them against the very things they find challenging. The solution? Rapidly train every educator to identif...

Following Tom Bewick’s involvement in the inaugural conference of Apprenticeships for America, in Washington D.C. (March 12th-13th, 2024), here he outlines how the planned expansion of registered apprenticeship in the USA could more fully open the door to independent training providers and universities from the UK, who may themselves spot a business opportunity to get involved. Winston Churchill,...

In the rapidly changing landscape of the UK’s education sector, leaders are at the forefront of innovation, facing an array of challenges that are magnified for those who are neurodivergent. Neurodiversity encompasses a range of conditions, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other traits. An estimated 20% of the working population identifies as neurodivergent. This percentage is thought to be e...

Stuart Edwards discusses the potential to use technology for assessment in apprenticeships and highlights features of the End Point Assessment model that may stifle innovation. Based on his report for the Gatsby Foundation, he suggests actions for Ofqual and IfATE to move things forward. Over the past two years, I have been looking at the potential to apply more transformative approaches using dig...

John Paul has worked across the recruitment and HR technology market for 20 years and is responsible for leading the business and growth of the platform. Since Ramp Global’s inception, he has raised significant investment to develop the technology platform and build the team. Before setting up RAMP.Global, John Paul worked for two major global staffing agencies, Michael Page and Manpower, before s...

The new multi-channel marketer standard takes a refreshed approach to marketing apprenticeships, enabling individuals to gain the skills and knowledge for their future career. But what’s different about the new standard and what does it mean for employers looking to develop a workforce with future-ready skills? The new multi-channel marketer apprenticeship offers a fresh approach to marketing appr...

In this editorial, Sheila discusses strategies for effectively managing and supporting apprentices to ensure their success. She emphasises the importance of understanding apprenticeship requirements, selecting suitable mentors, and adapting management styles. Key points include refining onboarding processes, setting goals, monitoring progress, providing mental health support, and accommodating stu...

Transitioning to personalised education, especially for neurodivergent learners, reduces talent wastage and fosters inclusivity. By adopting Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and targeted support, this approach caters to diverse learning needs, ensuring every student’s success. This shift is crucial for preparing students for modern workforce complexities, emphasising the value of individual dif...

Recent surveys reveal key drivers of employee engagement in UK Higher Education, highlighting benefits like purpose-driven work and challenges such as leadership issues and workload, emphasising the importance of employee feedback. A career in Further education is busy and varied. It can be extremely rewarding, and thousands of people throughout the country are eagerly working toward tenured posit...

Generative AI is revolutionising higher education institutions. Creating better connected and intelligent campus’ is a top priority in 2024 and further education institutions are exploring technologies that offer solutions that will empower staff and students. The world of further education is no stranger to technology and automation. After all, when today’s students begin to consider which career...

As universities come under increasing pressure to improve their sustainability performance, they are missing a crucial opportunity to accelerate their transition to net zero. Heat energy takes up over half of global energy demand. If universities are serious about transitioning away from fossil fuels, they need to decarbonise their heat. As the effects of climate change ramp up, the decarbonisatio...

BLG Lead Trainer Dennis Francis shares his insights. He focuses on the progress of anti-racism led by BLG with organisations in education and business. Here, Dennis gives his perspective on the importance of leadership in FE & Skills to tackling systemic and organisational racism. IntroductionFor me, the key question for leaders in tackling racism is how individuals will step up and embrace th...

Sparking Interest in STEM. For many years now, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and representation in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). From early childhood education to careers at every stage, efforts are being made to ensure that women and girls from all backgrounds have equal opportunities to participate and excel in these...

The Federation of Awarding Bodies hosted an event at the Scottish Parliament in February. Scottish Members of Parliament, skills and education stakeholders, and FAB members attended to discuss reform to 16+ education in Scotland. Reforming Scotland’s 16+ Education OfferLike the other UK nations, Scotland is in the midst of reforming their 16+ education offer. Recommendations made in the Withers re...

This article discusses Canada’s economy and the role of employability services in addressing job market challenges and laying the groundwork for long-term economic resilience amidst global economic fluctuations and technological advancements. After my recent visit to Ontario, Canada, where I had the opportunity to learn about the challenges faced by job seekers and the critical work of our members...

Sharmla Chetty, CEO of Duke Corporate Education, explores why human capital leaders must guide AI integration, prioritising decency, collaboration, and skill development. As technology reshapes work, fostering a people-centric approach ensures AI enhances human capabilities, rather than replacing them. In the dynamic landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the potential for fueling annual GDP g...

Stephen explains the UK’s engines of growth have stalled since 2008, resulting in lower average earnings and public services under strain. The Chancellor’s recent Budget focused on personal tax cuts but failed to prioritise widening access to learning, skills, and employment, which are crucial for growth. A single Budget isn’t going to fix all our challenges, particularly not a pre-election Budget...

Kerry advocates adopting a new lens for assessing achievement. Rather than tarnishing all early leavers with the same brush, we should recognise and report on the accomplishments of partial achievers. In the world of further education, the term “early leavers” often carries a negative connotation. It implies that those who don’t complete their programmes have somehow failed or given up. From an Of...

Each year GoStudent releases The GoStudent Future of Education Report, which offers a unique and comprehensive view of emerging educational trends, and sheds light on the wants and needs of Gen Z and Alpha students. This year, the report explores AI in education and highlights Europe’s AI gap. As the digital era transforms every aspect of our lives, from how we work to how we communicate, we must...

Jane Knight is a leader in the education and employment sector with expertise in women returners, having supported thousands of mums back to work since 2014. In National Careers Week (4-9 March 2024), Jane has wisdom and guidance for jobseekers looking for their next role. Key Considerations When Exploring Career OptionsFirst off, the best piece of advice I can give to job seekers who are explorin...

The latest funding changes in the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) have been a welcome step in ensuring apprentices are fully supported to complete their apprenticeships and progress in their industry. Here we examine the key changes and what they mean for employers and apprentices. Increase in funding for Functional Skills English and mathsAchieving these qualifications is mandatory for...

In this article, Skills Minister Rob Halfon emphasises the importance of careers guidance in empowering individuals and building a skilled workforce. He discusses the importance of starting early in schools, building a coherent careers system, raising awareness of apprenticeships and T Levels, supporting adults, and promoting green careers. This National Careers Week, I want to highlight the treme...

Introduction. Amid a worsening public sector crisis and significant skills shortages across key sectors in the UK, hopes of many professions and organisations rested on today’s announcements by the Chancellor. Within the budget, only 8 specific mentions of skills were made. Examples include ensuring the NHS workforce has the necessary skills to train an additional 6,000 midwives and double the num...