14 April 2006
College leaders this week welcomed moves to professionalise the further education workforce but added they must complement, rather than replace, existing efforts.
A consultation paper published on April 11 set out how ministers plan to implement one of the main requirements of last month's FE white paper: a fully trained and qualified workforce.
Views are sought on how people can be attracted into the FE sector, particularly into principals' posts, and how greater diversity among the leadership could be encouraged.
Ministers also want to hear opinions on how compliance with the requirements of continuing professional development can be met.
The Association of Colleges welcomed the measures but stressed that any initiatives should tie in with existing projects.
Maggie Scott, the AoC's director of learning and quality, told Public Finance: 'Colleges have already systematically begun the process of creating a fully qualified workforce, and so we are keen that these new proposals are implemented to supplement rather than supplant existing schemes, as well as accommodating those well-qualified staff who combine lecturing with another profession.'
The sector received a further boost this week when schools minister Jacqui Smith announced £50m in training and support for school and college staff to help them deliver the new vocational diplomas that will come on stream in 2008.
PFapr2006
