157 Group welcomes review of professionalism in the FE and skills workforce
2nd February 2012
For immediate release: Thursday 2 February 2012
157 Group welcomes review of professionalism in the FE and skills workforce
BEGINS
The 157 Group has welcomed the announcement that Lord Lingfield will chair an independent review to investigate ways to improve the professional status of the further education and skills workforce.
Lynne Sedgmore CBE, executive director of the 157 Group, said, "We fully support the government's aim to raise the status of FE professionals, as part of the ongoing reforms in our sector. Teachers and trainers in FE and skills have a crucial role to play, and ensuring that they have the best support is in the interests of their learners, society and the economy.
"We are keen to contribute to the review, which will give the opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made in recent years and determine how best to support outstanding teaching and learning - the most important priority for the FE and skills sector."
Marilyn Hawkins, chair of the 157 Group and principal of Barnet and Southgate College, said, "Allied closely to the debate about professionalism is the issue of reputation, which affects our sector's potential to maximise its valuable contribution to the nation and economy. Young people and learners of all ages should be aware of the many options available to them in FE - degree courses as well as vocational programmes and apprenticeships - and should feel confident about choosing this route."
ENDS
Notes for editors
About the 157 Group
The 157 Group represents 27 of the most influential colleges in the FE sector. It was formed in 2006 in response to paragraph 157 of Sir Andrew Foster's report on the future of further education colleges, in which he argued that principals of large successful colleges should play a greater role in policymaking.
CONTACT
Gemma Knott 07581 354 750
Email gemma.knott@157group.co.uk
The 157 Group Limited P O Box 58147 London SW8 9AF
Website: www.157group.co.uk
