Learning and Skills Teachers position exists across all areas of the Further Education and Skills (FES) sector, typically within learning environments for learners aged 16 and above (though a small number of teachers may teach learners aged 14–16 in alternative provision programmes). Some Further Education (FE) colleges may also deliver to learners aged 14–16 if approved by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA).
Learning and Skills Teachers may work in FE or Sixth Form colleges (either general or specialist), independent training providers (ITPs), adult and community learning (ACL) centres, or education establishments within the offender learning system. Teaching can take place across a range of levels, often up to Level 3, and may include academic, vocational, and technical education. Some teachers may also teach at postgraduate level, covering diverse professional disciplines. Many in this sector are known as “dual professionals” — combining technical, vocational, and academic expertise to deliver high-quality learning experiences in the further education and skills environment.
The overall purpose of this role is to ensure that learners in the Further Education and Skills system gain the best possible knowledge, skills, and behaviours. Teachers achieve this by planning and delivering up-to-date, comprehensive, challenging, and inspiring learning programmes that engage learners, promote progress, and enable them to fulfil their potential.
In their day-to-day work, individuals in this role interact with other teachers, FES professionals, and learners of varying ages, abilities, backgrounds, and goals. They may also work with employers and other stakeholders. Teachers who specialise in a specific technical or vocational field often maintain strong links with their industry and continuously update their knowledge and skills.
Professionals in this field are responsible for preparing learners for progression in education or employment. When working with a diverse range of learners, including those with special educational needs, teachers must be flexible, creative, and adaptive, adjusting their behaviour and teaching methods to suit different contexts and learner levels.
Learning and Skills Teachers must possess strong pedagogical knowledge appropriate to learners in the further education and skills sector and continuously update their practice with evidence-based and effective teaching methods in their field of expertise.
Teachers in this sector typically exercise a high degree of autonomy, uphold excellent professional and ethical standards, and take responsibility for their own professional development. They may also supervise others or be responsible for managing budgets within their teaching remit.