Enthusiastic operational staff are among those benefiting from providers adopting a more creative approach to CPD as a result of latest research. One of the most rewarding aspects of research is the glorious lightbulb moments that occur unexpectedly. These moments of sudden clarity can spark a chain reaction, like a snowball gathering momentum, transforming and […]
A major challenge that consistently plagues many providers is learners extending beyond their expected programme completion dates. This often leads to unfunded provision or, to use the jargon, out of funding (OOF). So much so, in fact, that the language surrounding this issue has evolved from the painful-sounding OOF to an almost-exhausted WOOF (well out of funding) […]
In the dynamic landscape of post-16 education, the significance of research cannot be overstated. It serves as the compass guiding institutions to accurately meet the evolving needs of developing a future-ready workforce. Earlier this year the Adult Learning Improvement Network (ALIN) and AMFE started a comprehensive, qualitative and quantitative national research project across all types […]
Results of our own survey show training providers are crying out for inspections that reflect the strengths of their sector. The breadth of experiences relating to Ofsted inspections are vast. No two providers share the same experience other than the passion! For some, the passion relates to extreme elation and delight about every aspect and for others […]
Kerry advocates adopting a new lens for assessing achievement. Rather than tarnishing all early leavers with the same brush, we should recognise and report on the accomplishments of partial achievers. In the world of further education, the term “early leavers” often carries a negative connotation. It implies that those who don’t complete their programmes have […]
Resilience among staff is increasingly important for employers. Kerry discusses teaching and measuring it as a means of improving workforce productivity while cultivating a culture of continuous learning. Developing employability skills is recognised as a critical component in education and training in improving people’s lives, enabling them to feel valued and contribute to society. The […]
The watchdog’s opposition to pre-inspection preparation and training is well-intentioned but harmful. Ofsted’s latest changes to its inspection handbook are a further acknowledgement that inspection processes are coming under intense scrutiny following the tragic loss of Ruth Perry. While Ofsted is taking steps to improve its internal practices and training, it is critical that nominees […]
Consistency across programmes, personal development, careers guidance and governance feature in Kerry Boffey’s review of Ofsted inspections in 2023. Here at the Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (FIN), we are looking forward to making a contribution to the new Ofsted chief inspector’s “big listen” when he starts in the new year. During the autumn, we invited […]
Caught between completion and assessment, too many apprentices are left to an inadequate support system. Completing an apprenticeship is a significant achievement, marking the end of formal training and the beginning of a new journey – recognition, promotion or new career. However, what follows this milestone is a phase that has been relatively under-explored and […]
Analysis of inspection reports calls into question the accuracy of a grade category ascribed to nearly two-thirds of FE providers, explains Kerry Boffey In further education, the pursuit of excellence is a noble endeavour. Yet as we navigate the intricate landscape of Ofsted-graded institutions, a crucial question is whether ‘good’ or grade 2 is too […]
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