Further Education Lecturer
Job Description:Further education (FE) lecturers teach academic and work-related courses to adults, students and apprentices.
Job Category:What you will do:
In this role you could:
- plan and prepare classes for students
- teach lessons, take tutorials and run practical workshops
- use e-learning technology to deliver lessons
- work with learning support staff to give students with special
- educational needs or disabilities extra help
- check and mark work and give feedback
- help and motivate students facing barriers to learning and make sure that all students work well together
- make referrals to other professionals like mentors, personal tutors, careers advisers and counsellors
- take registers, keep records and order resources
- make sure safeguarding and health and safety procedures are followed
You may also:
- interview potential students
- work with exam boards to set and mark essays and exams
- meet with subject colleagues and other staff to plan and review work and share good practice
- plan and take part in events like open days or recruitment activities
- attend training courses and keep up with professional development
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- to enjoy working with other people
- customer service skills
- sensitivity and understanding
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- to be flexible and open to change (adaptable)
- organisational skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Further Education Lecturer, the specific subjects required can vary depending on the subject area you plan to teach and the specific requirements of the educational institution. However, there are some general subjects and skills that can be beneficial for aspiring Further Education Lecturers. Here are some examples:
- English Language: Strong communication skills are essential for lecturers, regardless of the subject they teach. This includes both written and verbal communication.
- Mathematics: Depending on the subject area, proficiency in mathematics may be important. For example, lecturers in math-related subjects or vocational courses may require a good grasp of mathematical concepts.
- Subject-Specific courses: In addition to English and mathematics, having GCSEs or equivalent qualifications in the subject(s) you intend to teach can be highly advantageous. For example, if you want to teach English literature, having a qualification in English literature may be required.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Proficiency in using computers and technology can be important, especially if your teaching role involves the use of digital resources and platforms.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You can do a further education (FE) teaching qualification at university, with a higher education institution or on a work-based training programme.
Qualifications include:
- certificate in education
- postgraduate diploma in post-compulsory education and training
- postgraduate certificate in the lifelong learning sector
- postgraduate certificate in further education and training
If you want to teach work-related courses in FE, like apprenticeships, you’ll need experience and a technical qualification in your chosen subject, as well as your teaching qualification. This should be at level 3 standard (national diploma or equivalent) or higher.
To teach academic qualifications, you’ll usually need a degree in the subject.
College
You can do a teaching qualification at college. Qualifications include:
- Certificate in Education
- Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training
- Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training with a specialist pathway for teaching literacy, numeracy, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), or teaching disabled learners
You’ll be expected to have experience and qualification in the subject you want to teach.
You’ll also need to organise some time for teaching practice, though training providers can often help with this.
Apprenticeship
You can complete a learning and skills teacher higher apprenticeship.
You’ll need a qualification in the subject you want to teach. Employers will be looking for relevant up-to-date industry experience.
You’ll also need to show ability in English, maths and IT.
Work
You may be able to apply directly for job vacancies if you have several years’ experience and qualifications in a trade, for example plumbing or hairdressing.
You can then train for a teaching qualification on the job, if you have your employer’s support.
Volunteering
It will be useful to get experience of working with young people through paid work or volunteering at a school or college.
Direct Application
You can apply directly to work in further education if you have relevant experience, knowledge and skills in a technical or academic subject.
You can also teach some subjects in further education if you have a background in schools teaching and hold qualified teacher status (QTS).
Career tips
In the UK, you can get qualified teacher learning and skills status while you work, once you have a minimum of a level 5 teaching qualification.
Restrictions and Requirements
You’ll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks
Working Hours and Environment:
You could work in a sixth form college, an independent training centre, at a college or in a prison.
Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career Path & Progression:
You can find opportunities with further education colleges, sixth form colleges, adult education centres, independent training providers and offender education schemes.
With experience, you can become a senior lecturer, head of department, education programme co-ordinator or move into management. You could also become a training assessor.
Another option is to work as an examiner or write textbooks and online education resources.