A different FE is possible! Please support our campaign by adding your name and inviting colleagues and supporters to do the same. We call on the Association of Colleges (AoC) and college leaders to work with us and sign our pledge for a new settlement in further education in England.
Pay rise
The value of our pay has fallen by 35% in recent years yet the sector currently has the highest levels of income plus higher than average reserves and cash in the bank. Staff deserve a pay rise.
Workloads
UCU research shows excessive and unmanageable workloads are all too prevalent in the sector. FE staff on average work two days for free each week. The impact on staff is significant, and we need action from employers and a national agreement to reset matters.
Binding national negotiations
Unlike other parts of the UK where teachers’ pay and FE pay is linked, in England the outcomes of national talks are not binding, and colleges have no requirement to implement any offer made. FE has been reclassified as part of the public sector. The current national bargaining agreement with non-binding outcomes is failing the sector. We need a new settlement in FE.
Just Transition Commission for FE
The climate crisis is real and the need to transition to new skills and forms of work if we are to find a sustainable and long-term future for the sector. The sector needs a Just Transition Commission to start to address the climate crisis and reposition FE to meet the environmental, skills and employability challenges that need to be addressed.