FE News on the go

Why a new online solution could be the key to increasing first-time pass rates in Functional SkillsIn this article the author discusses a digital practice paper that helps learners better prepare for Functional Skills exams by improving accessibility of content and offering tailored feedback and guidance. ARCHAIC APPROACHES IN AN ADVANCING WORLDFor many FE providers, cumbersome practice paper prep...

Protecting Educational Integrity: The Role of Online Identity VerificationIn response to fraudulent exam papers circulating on social media platforms, online identity verification is crucial in protecting educational integrity. The return to pre-pandemic grading standards has led to more students failing their GCSEs, making the purchase of these papers an enticing proposition. Social media platfor...

FE Collective: NCFE’s AI in Assessment JourneySince 2021, NCFE has been investigating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to support our assessment activities. AI is extremely flexible, so early work focussed on ‘the art of the possible’, understanding what capabilities NCFE may want and how our treasure trove of data may be able to get us there. We have also funded other organisations to expl...

AI and Literacies at the FE CollectiveIn preparation for the upcoming FE Collective event , Vikki Liogier, Education and Training Foundation’s National Head of EdTech & Digital Skills, discusses AI and literacies. This article serves as an introduction to her session and recounts her exploration of the intersection between open AI and art. A year ago, in September 2022, I began my journey into...

Standing up for older workers in the NorthStephen Lambert examines the plight of Northern older workers locked out of the labour market and outlines what needs to be done to overcome barriers to work, training and adult/community education amongst this ‘disregarded and forgotten’ group. Although the level of North-east regional unemployment has increased, one group that appears to be over-looked b...

The skills search: Investing in AI for the digital workplaceArtificial intelligence is reshaping our approach to people, our businesses and our society. Now, it is time to gear up and embrace the transformation, adapt and upskill. We must act now to proactively prepare for a digital future filled with more innovative, productive and fulfilling job roles. When ChatGPT was launched in 2022, many peo...

AI and the implications for Further Education at the FE CollectiveThis article underscores the need to redirect resources from AI-driven material delivery to human judgment-based assessments of various intelligences, fostering a deeper understanding of qualities like creativity and originality in the realm of human intelligence. We must not be constrained by language. As societies grow in sophisti...

Human learningTo learn is to be human. For humans to keep up with our changing world our education institutions and systems must also adapt and find new relevance. For humans to keep up with our changing world, our education system must also adapt and find new relevance. To learn is to be human, and this very human element of learning must take centre stage as we move away from the old and envisio...

Unlocking Opportunities: The Rise of Digital Credentials in the FE MarketThis article explores the growing significance of digital credentials in the Further Education (FE) market. It delves into the benefits they offer, such as enhanced portability and verifiability, and their potential to revolutionise credentialing systems. The article examines how digital credentials can provide learners with...

20 years later…Marking 20 years of FE News, IEP reflects on the significant changes in the employability sector over this time and the importance of embracing lifelong learning to thrive in this dynamic employability landscape. The IEP is only 12 years old but it was launched by FE News who are 20 years old this month. Both organisations have seen significant growth and developments over this time...

Pathways to Success: Progression after T LevelsEarlier this year, the Education and Training Foundation held two ‘T Level Learning From’ events, bringing together T Level practitioners from across the country. Here, Ruth Coyle, Roz Hicks and Lucy Whitwood reflect on the practical learnings and advice from a breakout session they designed for the events. With the new academic year under way, thousa...

The Future of Higher Education: What Role Does Europe Want to Play?​In this article, the author discusses the evolving role of higher education in the context of technological revolutions, emphasizing Europe’s need to assert itself as a global leader by integrating European values and fostering collaboration among universities. It highlights the importance of research, education, and a shared Euro...

The Future of Higher Education: What Role Does Europe Want to Play?​In this article, the author discusses the evolving role of higher education in the context of technological revolutions, emphasizing Europe’s need to assert itself as a global leader by integrating European values and fostering collaboration among universities. It highlights the importance of research, education, and a shared Euro...

How do we save UK skills? Perhaps start by asking the right people…As another report highlights challenges faced by the UK in improving skills shortages and increasing productivity, I ask the question, who are the right people to ask when we reform VET qualifications ?The UK has been chasing a solid vocational skills system since the mid-1800s, when international competitors first began to steal a...

Connecting local businesses with collegesIn this article the author focuses on the importance of businesses partnering with local colleges. These partnerships can be mutually beneficial. By offering real -world experience and tapping into fresh talent, local businesses can identify potential future employees while universities can promote experiential learning and better graduate prospects. CONNEC...

The impact of government changes to apprenticeship funding bands and what further change is still neededThe last 2 years has seen a dangerous situation emerge in the UK skills sector. Senior policy makers in government have repeatedly expressed the critical role of skills in supporting economic recovery in the UK, and the importance of high-quality apprenticeships in delivering those skills. Howev...

Employability Across the Globe: Bridging the Gap Between Our Similarities and DifferencesIn today’s interconnected world, some argue that employment practices are becoming more standardised, but is it true that one size fits all? Exploring differences and commonalities across regions reveals a delicate balance. In the age of globalisation, where borders become less significant, and digital advance...

The role of apprenticeships in tackling UK’s social mobility challengesIn this article, Nichola Hay discusses the latest report from the Social Mobility Commission and highlights the role of professional apprenticeships in tackling the UK’s growing social mobility crisisThis month, the UK’s Social Mobility Commission released its annual State of the Nation 2023 report on social mobility, with star...

Enhancing Staffing Efficiency: The Role of AI in EducationOMMAX digital strategy partner Isabella Calderon Hoyos explains how AI is transforming staffing in education, bringing simplicity, speed and efficiency to a sector in need. Artificial Intelligence has commanded attention as a force with fantastic potential, particularly around driving operational performance by assisting humans to deliver a...

Setting the skills sector stage for the next twenty yearsIn this exclusive article to mark FE News’ 20th anniversary, AELP’s Paul Warner warns of the serious situation the skills sector finds itself in right now and outlines the urgent need for action to ensure we have the sustainable skills system the country needs. A huge congratulations must go to FE News on their 20 th anniversary. It’s a cons...

AI: Powering the next generation of workersIn this article, the author discusses AI’s impact on workplace collaboration, productivity, training, industry changes and HR operations, emphasising the need for upskilling to maximise its benefits. As organisations modernise the workplace to accommodate the demands of the evolving workforce demographic, the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) has g...

You Cannot be SeriousConsequences of policy decisions are often unintended but they can be foreseen by those with experience of implementing them. Better still, we can use starting axioms to reduce their likelihood. One of the joys of summer is the annual reshowing of John McEnroe’s Wimbledon rant “you cannot be serious!” While John used the expression as a complaint, the phrase could also be a su...

Empowering the Next Generation: Putting AI on the Curriculum In this article, Gavin Poole discusses the importance of incorporating AI into the education system. He acknowledges the rapid advancements in AI and the need to educate young people about its use, ethics, and potential. The article argues that AI can enhance the learning experience, improve individualised teaching, and develop critical...

How well does your college or school culture positively promote the wellbeing of all staff, faculty and students? Is your leadership team aware of the impact their behaviours have on those around them? The academic year has begun, time to plan ahead and welcome new and returning staff and students. It’s also an opportune time to think about how you and your leadership team can help support the wel...

Adult Learners’ Week: Let the adventure startAdult Learners’ Week launches in Wales on the 18 September, a national campaign to promote lifelong learning opportunities, with a celebration of life-changing stories through the Inspire! Awards and 400 have a go events and outreach taster courses taking place. Kay Smith, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Learning and Work Institute reflects on the intro...