Search results

In this chapter, the author argues that there is a need for the government to formulate a clear strategy to professionalise the further education (FE) sector in the United Kingdom (UK). It is based on the view that the quality of teaching staff and their professional development is essential to meeting present and future demands upon the FE sector. It begins with a brief history of FE which shows that initial teacher education and professional development reflects the neglect of the sector. This is followed by an examination of what has happened to FE staff since incorporation. Recent developments and government policies are also examined with a focus on the setting up of the Further Education National Training Organization (FENTO) and the development of standards. The chapter concludes with the author suggesting a number of policies that could be implemented to raise the standards of teaching, learning and professionalism in the FE sector.