Since 2020, we have been carrying out a series of projects on behalf of Welsh Government to support and enhance the professionalism of the post-16 workforce in Wales.
If you are interested in contributing to, or working with us on these projects,
Professional learning and development framework for the post-16 workforce in Wales
In July 2023, a new professional learning and development framework for practitioners in further education (FE), work-based learning (WBL) and adult learning was launched.
The framework, which is funded by the Welsh Government and developed by the EWC, brings together a range of tools and resources that we have been co-constructing with the sector since 2020, along with a range of other useful advice and guidance. It includes:
- updated professional standards for FE teachers, WBL practitioners and adult learning practitioners
- new professional standards for FE and WBL support staff and leaders
- an interactive tool that allows you to explore what the standards might look like at different levels of practice – exploring, embedding and transforming.
In 2023-24 we will be working closely with post-16 practitioners to develop additional interactive tools to support the use of the new professional standards for support staff and leaders.
Developing professional standards for leaders, support staff and adult learning
In 2021-22, we began scoping the development of professional standards for leaders, support staff and adult learning. We held initial discussions with key stakeholders and carried out a desktop review of standards for leaders, support staff, and adult learning in other countries and professions.
We’re working closely with stakeholders and practitioners to co-construct standards that effectively support individuals and provide a framework for continuing professional learning.
Understanding different roles within the post-16 workforce
During 2021-22, Welsh Government commissioned us to produce a series of ‘silhouettes’ that set out job roles/levels within the post-16 workforce.
We worked with a group of practitioners and stakeholders to co-construct a suite of 16 silhouettes covering a range of roles in FE and WBL – from technicians and apprenticeship assessors, to tutors and principals.
The silhouettes outline what model post-holders might look like, in terms of their skills, experience, and qualifications. They provide a valuable developmental resource for practitioners and stakeholders.
Assessing demand for new qualifications for post-16 practitioners
Currently in Wales, practitioners with a post-16 teaching qualification are unable to teach in maintained schools as they do not hold qualified teacher status (QTS).
We are doing a short study to understand the appetite and levels of demand, within the FE and school sectors, for the development of a dual FE and QTS qualification, and a pan-Wales conversion programme for those teaching in FE, who wish to teach in the secondary school sector.