Politics

One minister, two beasts: Can Jacqui Smith fix the skills system?

Jacqui Smith’s unprecedented brief spanning the DfE and DWP signals ambition for a joined-up skills system. But without wider...

Jessica Hill
Dr Sue Pember
skills

If we do rejoin Erasmus+ then seize the opportunity, FE

Renewed access to Erasmus+ could be on the horizon, presenting a golden opportunity to bring back life-changing experiences for...

Jessica Hill
Dr Katerina Kolyva
Skills reform

Colleges are bracing themselves for the Whitehall power shift

With skills policy moving to DWP, Ofsted unveiling a new framework and defence cash pouring in, this autumn could...

Jessica Hill
David Hughes
Colleges

Clearing hurdles – the journey to our brand new sixth form college 

From funding challenges to parking concerns, this has been no easy project. Our new sixth form college is proof...

Jessica Hill
Dr Phil Mark
Politics

Starmer’s shake-up could be the gamechanger FE needs

The Prime Minister’s decision to wrench skills policy from the Department for Education and place it in a new...

Jessica Hill
Tom Bewick
Colleges, Long read

Lisa O’Loughlin, principal and CEO

As Nelson and Colne College Group unveils a new identity, its leader Lisa O’Loughlin reflects on tackling illness, steering...

Jessica Hill
Jessica Hill
Bootcamps

Bootcamps fray and wear thin as providers begin race to the bottom

As funding pressures mount and oversight gaps widen, the long-term future of bootcamps depends on better accountability and sustained...

Jessica Hill
Kerry Boffey
Assessment

Exams disadvantage the anxious and fail to prepare the crammers

Exams have long been the currency of education but in professional pathways such as HNDs this model feels increasingly...

Jessica Hill
Imran Mir
Training Providers

We must stop chasing unicorns and start valuing sustainability

The dominance of private equity and venture capital in FE is leaving behind quality, sustainability and learners. It’s time...

Jessica Hill
Nick Smith