Adult learning deserves a national conversation Too often policy is made without hearing from the people delivering it. A new APPG inquiry into adult education aims to reverse that by gathering evidence from across the FE sector
Our learners can’t wait years to see the fruit of their labour Our reward systems are built for adults, not teenagers, and it’s sometimes unrealistic to expect them to understand attendance boosts life chances
How we’re using Brown’s empathy strategies to improve teaching As Ofsted sharpens its focus on inclusion, a strategy rooted in US academic Brené Brown’s work shows empathy can strengthen learning without lowering expectations
A patchwork system of support cannot solve the NEET crisis A national framework for NEET support could finally bring much-needed clarity and coordination to the system
Careers guidance isn’t an add-on, it’s the basis of NEET prevention Treating careers guidance as a leadership priority rather than a compliance exercise helped us drive NEET rates below the national average
Minimum wage makes 16-year-old apprentices too pricey to employ With apprenticeship starts for young people at historic lows, it’s time to consider that well-intentioned policy decisions may have stripped teenagers of opportunities
Having a four-day teaching week provides a fifth day for real life Our learners had the qualifications, but not always the work skills. By redesigning our timetable we treated preparation for adult life as a core purpose
Diplomas get a reprieve, and learners avoid the gap The government’s decision to pause the defunding of diplomas and extended diplomas is a major victory for common sense
Three pathways, one goal: Getting young people back on track Our phased transition to new qualifications will provide the certainty providers need, while ensuring no young person falls through the cracks