Tag Archives: further education

Knowledge-rich and skills-rich

Posted on August 18, 2019 by Eddie Playfair

We can learn a lot from the telly. Skills competitions like ‘Bake Off’ and ‘Strictly’ and quiz shows like ‘University Challenge’ and ‘Mastermind’ are among the most popular programmes on TV. These shows fall into two main camps, reflecting a … Continue reading →

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Creating the conditions for a successful FE system

Posted on April 29, 2018 by Eddie Playfair

This week saw the launch of The FE and Skills System, a study by The Policy Consortium. Subtitled ‘The consequences of policy decisions – lessons for policymakers and stakeholders’, this thorough survey reaches deep into the heart of FE; drawing … Continue reading →

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Sixth form resolutions for 2017

Posted on January 1, 2017 by Eddie Playfair

Like its predecessor, this year will no doubt be full of challenges and opportunities for colleges and sixth forms. 16-19 year-olds remain the worst funded full-time students in England while rapid qualification and assessment reform continues to affect almost every course … Continue reading →

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What future for Sixth Form Colleges?

Posted on December 24, 2016 by Eddie Playfair

I was asked to give a personal view on the future of sixth form colleges at the 2016 FE Staff Governors Conference on 2nd December, organised by a group of education unions: UNISON, ATL/AMIE, UCU and NAS/UWT together with the … Continue reading →

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Listening to our post-16 conscience.

Posted on May 23, 2015 by Eddie Playfair

Frank Coffield is the conscience of the post-16 sector. When faddishness or instrumentalism threaten, he is there to remind us of our values and our purpose. A decade ago, Coffield was one of the first to question ‘learning styles’ and … Continue reading →

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