ETF Champions Professionalism and Sector Evolution
The Education and Training Foundation (ETF) continues its pivotal role in enhancing the Further Education (FE) and Skills sector across the UK, with a strong focus on professional development for trainers. As the expert body for professional development and standards in FE in England, the ETF consistently introduces new resources, programmes, and policy interpretations designed to uplift the quality of education and training.
In 2026, the ETF's efforts are particularly concentrated on equipping FE professionals to navigate an evolving educational landscape, addressing critical areas such as digital transformation, sustainability, and the persistent skills gap. This strategic alignment reflects national priorities highlighted by the Department for Education (DfE), which underscores the necessity of high-quality FE provision in meeting current and future workforce demands.
Boosting Digital Competence and Integrating EdTech
Recognising the increasing integration of technology in teaching and learning, the ETF has significantly invested in enhancing digital skills across the FE workforce. The EdTech Professional Development programme has seen substantial engagement, with over 15,000 FE professionals participating in its resources as of late 2023. This initiative offers fully funded eLearning courses, allowing trainers to improve their foundational digital skills at their own pace.
The programme's comprehensive suite of online, on-demand courses is divided into EdTech and Essential Digital Skills (EDS) packages. These modules cover a wide array of topics, including effective digital and blended learning, creating digital learning resources, digital literacy, and professional responsibility. Specific modules also delve into communicating and sharing digitally, finding and evaluating information, and responsible online behaviour. This commitment ensures that FE trainers are well-equipped to integrate technology effectively into their practice, a trend accelerated by recent global shifts.
The ETF's Digital Teaching Professional Framework (DTPF), introduced in 2019, underpins these efforts, providing a shared understanding for digital skills development. Completion of modules is linked to digital achievement badges at three stages of personal development: Exploring, Adopting, and Leading.
Driving Sustainability and Green Skills
The FE sector plays a crucial role in addressing climate change and fostering a sustainable society. The ETF is at the forefront of this movement, supporting teachers, trainers, and leaders in embedding sustainability into everyday teaching and learning. The Foundation's vision includes ensuring that all learners become 'sustainability learners' and that the sector provides the 'green jobs pipeline' necessary to meet national sustainability goals.
The ETF's Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) strategy aims to make sustainability an integral part of core practice. A 2021 report, based on a survey of over 800 FE teachers, trainers, and leaders, revealed that more than 70% believe there needs to be significantly more teaching on ESD-related subjects in the post-16 UK education system. The ETF continues to champion sustainability through its Professional Standards and Continuous Professional Development (CPD) offerings, working to strengthen leadership and organisational development across FE and skills.
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This commitment extends to ensuring that every college, independent provider, and employer can clearly respond to the growing demand for sustainability education, making it a defining feature of excellent education and training. The ETF's work in this area aligns with broader governmental and societal pressures to prepare learners for the green economy and foster a sustainable future.
Addressing Sector Challenges and Future Outlook
The FE sector faces ongoing challenges, including persistent recruitment and retention issues, particularly in areas like construction, engineering, health and social care, and science and maths. A 2022 survey by the Association of Colleges indicated an average of 30 vacancies per college, highlighting a significant skills gap. The ETF's strategic goals, outlined in its 'Together we transform' strategy, aim to drive professionalism, improve teaching and learning, champion inclusion, and enable sector change.
The ETF's impact report for 2024-25 showcased significant achievements, including 615 FE and Skills practitioners being awarded Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status, and 16 achieving Advanced Teacher Status (ATS). Notably, 99% of QTLS recipients reported a positive impact on their teaching practice. The T Level Professional Development (TLPD) programme also saw over 11,800 engagements from more than 6,300 individuals, with 92% reporting improved knowledge.
Looking ahead, the ETF plans to intensify efforts in sustainability education, mental health and wellbeing support for staff and learners, and fostering greater diversity and inclusion within the FE workforce. These areas are recognised as crucial for a holistic and effective educational experience. The ETF also relaunched the Practitioner Research Programme (PRP) for 2024-2025, further supporting evidence-based practice within the sector.
The ETF's commitment to supporting the FE and skills workforce is critical for the UK's economic growth and social mobility. By providing continuous professional development, setting standards, and fostering innovation, the ETF ensures that trainers are equipped to deliver high-quality education that meets the needs of learners, employers, and communities.
For further insights and professional development opportunities in the FE sector, Abertay Training offers a range of resources and courses. Visit https://www.abertaytraining.co.uk for more information.