The only newspaper dedicated to further education and skills FE FEWEEK.CO.UK | MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 | EDITION 103 WEEK

Lecturer stars in Wembley win Bournemouth & Poole College sports lecturer Matt Brown (pictured with cup) put in a man-of- the-match performance to help his team lift the FA Vase at Wembley. The 24-year-old was in goal for Southampton outfit Sholing as they beat fellow semi-professional team West Auckland 1-0 in front of 5,432 spectators on Saturday, May 10. Mr Brown said: “There were no nerves. It helped that we came to the stadium for a tour the day before the game and soaked it all in. “Once the first whistle went, we were all zoned in and it was great © Photo: Jake Whiteley to play on such a nice pitch.” TWITTER ROW PRINCIPAL CALLS OFF CEO MOVE

@rebeccaKcooney BCoT and that “if people to China to create links said: “Having reflected on his domestic [email protected] don’t like it they should between Basingstoke, circumstances, Anthony Bravo has decided unfollow”. The tweet was which has around 11,000 to withdraw his application for the post of A Hampshire principal caught up in a Twitter also later deleted, before learners, and Chinese group chief executive. We wish Anthony every row in which BBC presenter Jeremy Clarkson tweeting his apology colleges at the beginning of success for the future.” was labelled a c*** has called off his move to (pictured). However, he the month. He said: “While Social media expert Ruth Sparkes, director become a chief executive. said his decision to pull out I was away I had time to of education PR company EMPRA, said: “This Anthony Bravo was signed up to leave of the move, announced reflect on the decision and is a reminder as to why colleges should have Basingstoke College of Technology (BCoT) by Bradford College on the potential impact on my a social media policy, and a strategy that is for the job at Bradford College Group but, April 11, was down to “the family and felt the distance understood by everyone in the organisation. less than a fortnight after apologising on potential impact on my family”. would be too disruptive. There are lots of Reputations can be won and lost in a single the social media website for retweeting the Bradford College said the retweet had no exciting projects underway at BCoT, especially tweet.” offensive message, he has now “withdrawn his bearing on Mr Bravo not moving to the new new relationships with colleagues in China Bradford College is expected to re-advertise application”. role and his current employers at BCoT said that I look forward to developing.” the chief executive role — the fourth time it Mr Bravo, who was due to start at the he would be staying on with them, but a social A BCoT spokesperson said: “The governors has done so since the beginning of the year, 25,000-learner Bradford college in September, media and FE sector expert has nevertheless welcome the decision and look forward to when current chief executive and president declined to comment on his retweet, which called for colleges to adopt Twitter policies to supporting Anthony in continuing our growth of the Association of Colleges Michelle Sutton he followed with a further tweet saying a protect their reputations. and quality improvement strategy.” said she would be stepping down. complaint had been made to Bradford and Mr Bravo returned from a month long trip A spokesperson for Bradford College See editor’s comment on page 8 where is commissioner’s no lessons careers supplement advice free with this issue first scalp PAGE 2 before 10am PAGE 8 going?

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www.abcawards.co.uk 2 @FEWEEK FE WEEK MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 FEWEEK.CO.UK EDITION 103 MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 3 Edition 103 NEWS NEWS FE WEEK NEWS IN BRIEF FE WEEK team COMMISSIONER CLAIMS FIRST SCALP Free school meal pay-outs leave colleges feeling short-changed Editor: Chris Henwood @fcdwhittaker & @rebeccaKcooney since 2012, would remain in post and said: @fcdwhittaker the number of entitled learners calculated Head designer: Nicky Phillips [email protected] “Maxine Room CBE has decided that at the Manifesto launch [email protected] by the EFA was different to the number Sub editor: Paul Offord end of this academic year she will retire Good careers guidance, financial support worked out by the providers themselves. Reporters: Freddie Whittaker The FE Commissioner has claimed his first from her post as principal, although she for learners progressing to FE and an end Colleges claim they have been left East Durham College learner services scalp with LeSoCo principal Maxine Room intends to remain active in the FE sector. to colleges being run for profit are election short-changed after learning how much director Mark Moore said the £138,876 his Rebecca Cooney standing down at the end of the year. “The governing body is very grateful for issues for the Association of Teachers and money they will receive to pay for the college had been allocated was enough to Photographer: Ellis O’Brien Ms Room’s resignation from the the commitment, passion and leadership Lecturers (ATL). government’s new universal free school pay for around 200 meals, when the college Financials: Helen Neilly 17,000-learner college in South East London that Maxine has shown during her time as It has launched its general election meals programme. paid bursaries to more than 1,000 learners Sales executive: Hannah Smith comes after leadership and governance at principal. manifesto in the run-up to May 2015. The Education Funding Agency (EFA) with low household incomes. the college was criticised by commissioner “We will now begin the search for General secretary Dr Mary Bousted said: wrote to colleges on Monday (May 12) to tell He said: “This is yet another burden Administration: Victoria Boyle Dr David Collins. Maxine’s successor, who we hope to have “The government must stop making schools them how much they would receive to pay placed on colleges to administer. In times Paris Ayotunde Dr Collins was sent into the college in in place by the beginning of the 2014/2015 and colleges behave like rival businesses, for meals for disadvantaged learners. when college budgets are being cut we are January after it was rated as inadequate academic year.” with teachers and heads pitched against It comes after it was revealed last increasingly managing devolved funding. Contributors: by Ofsted following a visit by inspectors in It had initially looked like the one another competing for pupils and month that colleges would receive funding Free school meals is just another to add to November. commissioner’s criticism of the LeSoCo resources.” equivalent to £2.41 per meal per learner, the list, along with 24+ advanced learner Signe Sutherland The college, which resigned from the 157 leadership fell on deaf ears with a college based on 4.5 days a week and 33 weeks of loans and the bursary which is managed New College Pontefract principal Pauline Hagen (centre) surrounding by learners jumping for joy Sharron Robbie Group after the result, came in for renewed spokesperson saying late last month that no study a year. at learner level, high needs funding, again, Mark Corney criticism from the education watchdog one at the top was standing down. No guidance plans But many providers have complained managed at learner level with masses of Lynne Sedgmore last month when inspectors said there was Skills Minister Matthew Hancock has The Department for Education ( DfE) that the figures they received, which are localised bureaucracy. Ofsted first in West Yorkshire insufficient monitoring of sub-standard since said the commissioner’s findings has “no plans” to publish guidance for based on data from previous years, are “Adults additional learning support The sixth form college sector has welcomed its supportive learning culture”. teaching. will be made public, prompting hopes that sixth form colleges that want to become much lower than what they were expecting, is also managed at learner level along first Ofsted grade one college with outstanding Principal Pauline Hagen said: “I am very FE Week intern: Christy Cooney But on Wednesday (May 14), Ms Room public pressure could help to force change academies. and the relatively low government with 16 to 18 vulnerable bursaries. The in every headline field, writes Ellie Costigan. proud. Every member of the New College team Managing director: Shane Mann said: “It is with sadness that I announce my at failing colleges. In response to a parliamentary question contribution towards set-up costs has government is trimming back on costs in New (formerly North East Wakefield) College has worked extremely hard over the last three retirement from LeSoCo this summer.” He told FE Week: “I hope publishing the asked by Luton North Labour MP Kelvin also been criticised by the Association of their departments and passing the load to Pontefract, in West Yorkshire, was praised years and Ofsted have recognised the culture

She added: “Over the last five years I reports of the commissioner will help in Hopkins, Education Minister Edward Colleges (AoC). individual colleges whose budgets are not by the education watchdog for “excellent” of hard work and success at our college.” The And tweet us your thoughts @feweek or attendance rates and time-keeping, high 1,850-learner college was rated as good at its with the hashtag #feweek have had the privilege of working with an two ways. The first is to shed light and Timpson said: “Sixth form colleges are The DfE was not able to provide a full being increased to reflect the additional absolutely fantastic team. transparency on turning around colleges. classified as private sector institutions list of allocations, but a survey of 79 college work required.” standard of achievement and “positive and previous inspection, in 2008. “The passion, commitment and “Where colleges aren’t performing and already benefit from the freedoms that leaders conducted by FE Week showed that Julian Gravatt, assistant chief executive Contact the editor dedication of the staff at LeSoCo we’ve got to make sure that they’re open academies enjoy. money for set-up costs amounts in most of the AoC, said: “The extra money is good prepare for infant free school meals. have settled in, it would be worth looking Please inform the FE Week editor of any errors or issues of concern regarding this is unrivalled, and the students and honest about that and take action “For this reason, the DfE has no plans to cases to 5 per cent of the total allocation, news, but as the guidance was issued in “Colleges educate the majority of low- at whether the management of this could publication. are simply inspirational. on behalf of students because this is publish guidance for sixth form colleges that but capped at £6,000, which means bigger April and the allocations in May, colleges income 16 to 18-year-olds and so they will be combined with other 16 to 18 support Both students and tutors are all about improving standards for wish to become 16 to 19 academies.” colleges with large allocations will lose out. are going to have to move quickly to get get the majority of the money available, funding.” Email [email protected] with united in their ambition, learners. The survey also revealed many providers arrangements in place by September. but the start-up funding doesn’t really The Education Funding Agency declined Error/Concern in the subject line. resilience and inclusivity.” “But the other thing is that as the felt they had been short-changed because Schools have had twice as much time to cover the full cost. Once the arrangements to comment. Please include the page number and story headline, and explain what the problem is. A spokesperson for the commissioner goes around lots of Funding: explained college’s board of governors different colleges he and his team are confirmed that governors’ learning lots of things about good The Skills Funding Agency (SFA) is hosting subscribe chair John practice, as well as things that a webinar to explain changes to its Funding Landeryou, in place need to improve.” Rules 2014 to 2015 Graded Outstanding For an annual subscription to FE Week for The hour long session takes place on just £75 visit www.feweek.co.uk and click on ‘subscribe’ at the top of the page. Wednesday (May 21) from 10.30am. www.feweek.co.uk College bursary roll-overs stopped “We will be making the contents of by Ofsted for: the webinar available afterwards on the Transforming lives through learning internet,” said an SFA spokesperson. @fcdwhittaker ✓ Outcomes for learners A document outlining the changes is ADVERTISE WITH US [email protected] already available on the SFA website, where ✓ If you are interested in placing a product or Health and social care details on how to view the webinar are also job advert in a future edition please click on ✓ Flexible learning the ‘advertise’ link at the top of the page on Colleges are to be stopped from rolling available. Public services feweek.co.uk or contact: unspent 16 to 19 bursary money of more programmes provide an outstanding service E: [email protected] than £500 over into new financial years, “I suspect they may be more concerned Why partner with to learners and employers T: 020 81234 778 the Education Funding Agency (EFA) has about the ‘beefing’ up of the audit announced. requirement… — audit firms will be Ofsted Inspection 2014… Learning Curve? Learning Curve works In new guidance on how bursary getting a guidance note to check proper Disclaimer exceptionally well with money should be spent by providers, the compliance with the rules for allocating and FE Week is owned and published by Lsect Ltd. The views Managers and sta are ✓ Outstanding success rates and partner organisations expressed within the publication are those of the authors EFA has stipulated for the first time that distributing bursary funds. Up until now passionate about the impact that named, and are not necessarily those of FE Week, Lsect timely completions Ltd or any of its employees. While we try to ensure that the underspends totalling more than £500 must the audit regime has been quite relaxed but their courses have on learners' lives Managers apply rigorous information we provide is correct, mistakes do occur and we be reported and handed back. that is all about to change.” ✓ Largest and most experienced cannot guarantee the accuracy of our material. quality management The design of the printed newspaper and of the website is But the EFA is yet to clarify whether the The EFA guidance says: “Any Teaching, learning and assessment subcontractor in the FE sector copyright of Lsect Ltd and material from the newspaper processes when working should not be reproduced without prior permission. If you new rule will come into effect this academic underspend below £500 from the 2013 to 2014 are outstanding ✓ Deliver high-quality programmes with subcontractors wish to reproduce an article from either the printed paper year or in September, sparking concerns academic year can be rolled forward into or the website, both the article’s author and FE Week must nationally to over 45,000 learners be referenced (to not do so, would be an infringement on from sector leaders. the 2014 to 2015 academic year and used Exceptionally well-planned To view the full report copyright). teaching meets the needs of both ✓ Strategic partnerships with over 35 Lsect Ltd is not responsible for the content of any external Julian Gravatt, assistant chief executive £500 roll-over from one year to the next with the discretionary allocation for the please go to our website internet sites linked to. of the Association of Colleges, said: “It is could make life difficult for colleges with 2014 to 2015 academic year. learners and employers Please address any complaints to the editor. We are fully FE providers committed to the Press Complaints Commission’s Code of late in the day to introduce a new rule on large numbers of needy students. Bursary “If an institution does have an Practice. If you have a complaint which cannot be resolved by ✓ Exceptional learner and employer the editor, write to the Press Complaints Commission, Halton carrying forward underspends, given that allocations are based on out of date data. underspend they should check that they engagement capability House, 22—23 Holborn, London EC1N 2JD colleges and schools have been allowed to do “Colleges need greater flexibility in are being proactive enough in identifying this in the past. seeking to address the needs of students the students that are in need, or if they are ✓ Robust QA, MIS and audit procedures “We’re clarifying the details and whether from one year to the next.” giving them enough money to cover the Learning && SkillsSkills Events, Events, EFA will allow exceptional cases.” And Sixth Form Colleges Association needs that they have. Consultancy andand Training Training LtdLtd Stephan Jungnitz, college expert for the chief executive David Igoe (pictured) “If institutions have underspends of more 161-165 Greenwich Greenwich High High Road Road Interested in discussing strategic partnership opportunities with Learning Curve? Association of School and College Leaders, said: “My impression is that most of our than £500 that they will not be able to spend London SE10 8JA 8JA said: “The EFA’s intention that bursary members spend up their bursary allocations within the academic year, they should Please contact Jon Cummins on 07894 851849 or [email protected] T: 020 8123 8123 4778 4778 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] monies are received by students is of course and most actually add to it in order to report it to EFA.” www.learning-curve.co.uk entirely appropriate, but only allowing support all the students in need. The EFA declined to comment. 4 @FEWEEK FE WEEK MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 NEWS Former BIS chief in governance warning Maths and physics data ‘not enough’ @rebeccaKcooney [email protected] to help uptake WE’VE TAKEN THE INITIATIVE…

The former head of skills investment at the A plan to publish annual data on the Department for Business, Innovation and number of learners studying maths and AND CREATED THE FIRST Skills (Bis) has warned that entrepreneurial physics at colleges is “not enough” to education in colleges must be underpinned improve take-up of the subjects,” the by good governance. Association of Colleges (AoC) has warned. ENTREPRENEURIAL QUALIFICATION Dr Susan Pember, now education and Education minister Liz Truss management adviser to the Association announced on Wednesday (May 14) that of Colleges, told delegates at the Gazelle data on the number of learners studying Our Being Entrepreneurial quali cation is an exciting Last year we consulted with entrepreneurs to develop the Annual Summit on Tuesday (May 13) A-levels in maths, further maths and new quali cation that is the rst of its kind. Providing rst suite of distinct entrepreneurial quali cations. We that moves to make FE institutions more physics would be published from June. a fresh approach of developing mind and skill sets into provide learners with the opportunity to nd out about enterprising “need to be built on really sound She said the data was being published cross-curricular learning and ensuring learners have the what it is to be entrepreneurial, as well as to consider what accountability systems”. to help identify “science deserts”. She said: “My message to you is probably But AoC policy director Joy Mercer entrepreneurial skills required in the world of work. It has skills are needed to succeed within employment (e.g. Sue Pember Skills Minister Matthew Hancock what some of you don’t want to hear but I’m said: “Accountability measures are not been developed with the help and support of some of problem solving, communication, research, evaluation, going to say it anyway. She pointed to her experience of visiting colleges were “innovative, self-confident, enough to drive the take-up of a subject the leading entrepreneurs and employers in the country, coping with change, etc). We believe it is vitally important “I’ve had the privilege of going into good and outstanding private providers and have strong leadership and good governors — this can only be achieved through good which has enabled us to develop relationships with Youth to embed the entrepreneurial mind-sets (e.g. self-belief, colleges up and down the country and I’ve colleges. that hold the feet to the fire of principals and careers advice in primary and secondary Enterprise, CIC and YES Education to embed a more taking initiative, risk-taking, determination, resilience/ seen some absolutely brilliant stuff but “They were very clear about their holds them to account for what they deliver.” schools. entrepreneurial approach to education to better prepare attitude to failure, passion and energy, etc) that are also seen some stuff where if you tried to be governance structures, and by being clear But, he said, he was unwilling to define “The government needs to consider entrepreneurial on top of that your college about your governance structures, you give what exactly an entrepreneurial college was. whether there will be a good enough learners for the world of work. invaluable to an individual, working as part of a team and would come crumbling down.” staff the freedom to innovate,” she said. “The great thing about entrepreneurial supply of maths and physics teachers at to employers within education. Being Entrepreneurial The question for colleges wanting to be Dr Pember’s comments came the same colleges is there’s so many different ways to A-level, particularly coming into teaching At OCR, we rmly believe and support the opinion that is about developing the mind-sets and skills that breed more entrepreneurial, she said, was “how do week the Inspiring Governors Alliance, a define it that I wouldn’t want to restrict that,” at colleges and sixth form colleges.” young people need to be given every opportunity to be success in whatever an individual decides to do. you balance risk and compliance?” group dedicated to encouraging high-calibre he said. She added: “Almost all sixth form equipped with the ability to recognise and apply their “It’s wrong, isn’t it?” she told the audience people to become governors, was launched “What I’m trying to do is release the colleges teach A-level maths and physics skills to become employable. It is vital that young people So having developed the new Being Entrepreneurial suite at assembled at London HQ of BIS. and followed publication of the Leadership constraints that are put… onto colleges so and 64 per cent of FE colleges teach maths “When you think of entrepreneurial of teaching, learning and assessment by that they can respond to the needs of their with 53 per cent teaching physics at this have enterprise, entrepreneurship and employability skills of quali cations last year, we’re not just stopping there… things, you think of it as being not governors report by 157 Groups and Ofsted learners and crucially, be held to account for level; colleges are definitely not ‘science embedded into their curriculum. This means not only will bureaucratic, not regulatory and not having [see feweek.co.uk for coverage of both]. what they achieve.” deserts’. they be better equipped to work for themselves, but the OCR is taking the lead by actively working alongside rules and regulations. Skills Minister Matthew Hancock also “There is also a lack of recognition of skills and mind-sets learnt on their educational journey will entrepreneurs, employers and educators to develop new “However, if you’ve got a really sound spoke at the conference. vocational science at level three, which See Gazelle summit expert pieces on page 12 feed into employment within organisations and bene t the quali cation o ers and resources. Our aim is to ensure base… then it’s easy to move up.” He told FE Week that for him, enterprising can also lead to a worthwhile career.” employers there too. that by working together we can help learners to develop character, creativity and resilience, coupled with the opportunity to engage in real-life experiences within their Providers in dark about local communities. This approach is providing a meaningful preparation for life and work, thus creating fully-rounded, job status of learners Are future funding engaged citizens of the future.

@fcdwhittaker “While they would like 0.6 per cent, the [email protected] fact is, it’s 8.2 per cent which still isn’t bad allocations proving for 1m learners. More than half of providers are failing to “For the 50 per cent who are above that meet targets for collecting data about the target there is no actual comeback.” a challenge? employment status of their learners, figures Despite the lack of information on FREE TRAINING COURSES released by the government have revealed. learners upon course starts, the Skills We are running 2 FREE teacher training courses; LeedsBFBEAA on The figures in the latest Individualised Funding Agency (SFA) will, from next quoting course code Learner Record (ILR) have revealed that 24 June and London on 8 July. To book visit our CPD hub year, still be expecting providers to keep at www.cpdhub.ocr.org.uk 50.3 per cent of providers (481) missed an track of learners after they have completed Information Authority (IA) target of 0.6 courses by providing learner outcome and To speak with our team who have worked with entrepreneurs or per cent for the number of learners for we CAN help with that! destination data. and employers tovocational.quali build this unique [email protected] quali cation or to nd which they do not hold employment status Mr Hancock told FE Week: “Of course out more, email information upon enrolment. there’s always measurement issues around visit ocr.org.uk/beingentrepreneurial The sector as a whole, against the 0.6 data, and I think that they’re important to Mark Smith is our senior per cent target, in fact had 8.2 per cent as resolve. But in a sense they are the means curriculum and funding “unknown” or “not provided”. to the end. expert with over 22 years The target was for the halfway mark of experience. “The end is holding colleges, schools, He has a successful track the current academic year, but the result sixth from colleges to account for what they record within the sector could mean that the employment status of achieve for their students.” tens of thousands of learners is not clear. In 2012, FE Week revealed that 40 per cent However, Steve Hewitt, strategic funding, of providers sent data about apprentices to enrolments and examinations manager the Information Authority with details of 01823 337655 at Morley College, said there was no employment status missing. www.feassociates.com consequence for failing to hit the target. This led to calls by the then Shadow Skills “The reason some [providers] are missing Minister Gordon Marsden for the SFA and [email protected] that target is there’s nothing that happens National Apprenticeship Service to do more @feinsights to us if we don’t provide that information,” to encourage providers to give a full picture. he said. The SFA declined to comment. 6 @FEWEEK FE WEEK MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 FEWEEK.CO.UK EDITION 103 MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 7

Baker in ‘no Neets’ plea as youth job hopes take centre stage

@rebeccaKcooney “I personally believe the challenge has [email protected] been totally underestimated, because the psychological and social implications The number of jobless young people is as for young people who are left without its lowest level in five years, but at the any respect and no hope and really quite Youth Employment Convention it was a disastrous.” pressing issue that was still very much on She argued that the UK should be the agenda. prepared to learn from other countries. The latest statistics show the number “No country has the monopoly on of 16 to 24-year-olds not in employment, good ideas,” she said, pointing to youth education or training (Neet) fell by 48,000 to guarantee schemes where young people are 868,000 in the first quarter of 2014 but, Lord guaranteed a job or further training after Kenneth Baker said in his keynote speech, four months of unemployment. this wasn’t far enough. “Finland has such a scheme which has The target for the UK education system, been put forward by commentators as the he said, should be that no one should leave reason for its low unemployment rates.” to become unemployed. She also called for young people to be Lord Baker Lady O’Cathain “No Neets — that is our target,” he said, consulted about issues which affect them at the event in London on Tuesday and — an idea taken up in the final event of the Wednesday (May 13 and 14) convention, a youth delegates panel, where “We have nearly 900,000 young people several current and recent learners told unemployed who have undergone 11 years Labour MP Rushanara Ali, Lady O’Cathain free, state education and they cannot find a and Lord German, co-chair of the Liberal job — that is a national disgrace.” Democrat parliamentary committee for He added there was a “skills mismatch” work and pensions, what they wanted to “There is a huge shortage in our economy see on the political parties’ 2015 election for skilled workers — we’re going to need manifestos. Rushanara Ali nearly a million SET professionals at Many of them called for improved careers degree level, 450,000 at levels three and advice at school and beyond, and more four.” work experience. Part of the solution to the problem, he Panel member Armend Jashari said: Mystery surrounding Heywood said, was to engage with students about “The main problem I had was that I wasn’t their career choices at a younger age. really employable, some of the things report leads to breakout question He pointed to his University Technical missing were communication skills, College project, where students are teamwork skills, presentation skills that recruited at 14 to start a specialist technical kind of thing. “Whatever happened to the Heywood tackling, by asking Cabinet Secretary education alongside core subjects such as “One of the main things missing in report?” asked Tony Wilson of Inclusion Jeremy Heywood to conduct a review. maths and English. schools is that practical side of recruitment, (pictured), during a breakout session on However, the report failed “We found by 14, youngsters know where that’s an issue that needs to be addressed – the youth employment challenges the to materialise, and an FE Week their interests lie, and they’re quite capable we need more structured work experience.” next government will have to tackle. investigation has revealed it may never as to making the decision as to which range Rushanara Ali MP agreed. Mr Wilson was be published — in fact, it may not exist at of studies they wish to pursue,” he said. “The government’s decision to scrap complaining about all in hard copy form. However, the type of careers advice given work experience as an entitlement I think the number When FE Week asked for a to young people is important, according was the wrong decision — every young of defunct publication date in February, a Jigar Patel Youth Delegates panel, from left: chair Lottie Dexter, Jamal Campbell, Gulwali Passarly, Armend Jashari, to Jigar Patel, principal at consultancy person whatever their background should employment spokesperson for Mr Clegg said: Francis Augusto, Aisha Aminu and Ben Prayal firm McKinsey and Co, which has carried have an entitlement an offer of work initiatives started “The review was an internal out research into the transition between experience so they get a taste of what the over the last few review and was not intended to be education and employment. world of work is like,” she said. years — an issue published.” “I would certainly be looking for “The most effective services are where “That’s not enough, they need a Deputy Prime Following this, FE Week submitted employers come in and do things like mock continuous exposure to the world of work Minister Nick a Freedom of Information request, but the government to improve careers interviews, face-to-face discussions and and that require proper support proper Clegg was told: “The information… is not held mock assessments centres,” he said. careers guidance.” by the Cabinet Office.” Voice of a learner advice, especially for teenagers” “In places where that existed there was Closing the conference, Dave Simmonds When we asked for extra a direct correlation with the number of OBE, chief executive of Inclusion, warned clarification, we were told by en Prayel, studying for an HND in media production is linked to what’s happening in the local, regional Theatre Studies at school at got the best possible people that were then unemployed after six that the latest unemployment statistics a spokesperson: “Nothing Bat Barking & Dagenham College, as well as running and UK job markets. I would also call for more to be grade, but no one at the time suggested video and film months — there was no one.” might not give the full picture. has been written down.” his own film production and photography business, done to encourage companies to take on production. Mr Patel was joined in the session by “Those unemployment figures will She added in a took part in the Youth Delegates Debate at the Youth apprentices. “I came to Barking & Dagenham College really by chair of the House of Lords European sub- continue to tip down over the coming statement: “It’s internal Employment Convention on Wednesday, May 12, “At 16, straight after school, I chance, but it has been a fantastic experience because committee internal market, infrastructure months,” he said. policy advice that has where the panel discussed: “It’s 2015, what would spent two years on a full-time it has given me a real work experience — I’ve been and employment, Lady O’Cathain. “But the plain fact is, that even been provided to young people want to be promised in the election carpentry and joinery course able to set up my own business and have had so much “In February 2014 the seasonally before the recession the levels of the Deputy Prime manifesto?” and my next step was to find an help from the tutors. My friends at university on adjusted youth unemployment rate across youth unemployment were too Minister and Prime Here’s what 21-year-old Ben had to say. apprenticeship, but there just similar courses haven’t had anything like the positive the 28 member states stood at 22.5 per high and in fact going up, so there Minister on an “I would certainly be looking for the government weren’t any around so I had to experience I have had. cent, more than double the overall rate of can be and should be no ongoing basis.” to improve careers advice, especially for start again. “My other request is for university tuition fees to be unemployment,” she said. complacency.” announcedTony Wilson in September he would be teenagers. It also needs to be advice which Ben Prayel “I was really good at reduced or at the very least held at the current rate.” 8 @FEWEEK FE WEEK MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 FEWEEK.CO.UK EDITION 103 MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 9 fe week COMMENT It’s no word game Bright storm continues as Highfield hits back The brief history of Twitter is @paulofford already littered with ill-judged [email protected] Mr Bloor told FE Week postings. “Following its approval, Bright put between HABC and Bright (including Ms An awarding organisation has hit back at numerous references to being approved Charles-Jones) has Bright questioned It’s a history that now counts claims by Bright Assessing chief executive by us on its website, including the HABC whether they were indeed an approved Krissy Charles-Jones about its qualifications. logo. centre, including correspondence avid tweeter Anthony Bravo “We have asked Ms Charles-Jones confirming approved centre status had among its victims, regardless She had told FE Week that the troubled to remove the ‘Highfield’ reference [on been suspended in December 2013. Warwickshire-based provider was “never Bright’s website], but have not been “Neither have they questioned the of why his move to Bradford is approved or used” by Highfield Awarding provided with a response. whereabouts of an approval certificate Body for Compliance (HABC). “Following Bright’s approval and prior or approval number. off. to its suspension, HABC held ‘centre “Bright’s centre status has now He has walked a fine line with But the awarding body has disputed Ms visits’ at Bright’s head office in Alcester been permanently removed by HABC. Charles Jones’s statement. on two separate occasions. We will under no circumstances work tweets from China — while Terry Bloor, HABC quality assurance “On no occasion in our meetings with Bright or Ms Charles-Jones in the or in the numerous correspondences future.” ‘on duty’ as a college principal manager, told FE Week: “Bright was approved Terry Bloors Krissy Charles Jones — that some may see as silly, as an HABC-approved centre on September 16, 2013, after completing our centre application number. We never received a centre approval with NCFE to resubmit their portfolios and complain to Ofqual about NCFE, claiming fun, or even welcome proof of a process and paying the required approval fee certificate.” arrange for qualifications to be awarded. the awarding organisation was to blame for human face in a usually out-of- [£336].” NCFE (formerly the Northern Council for Privately funded learners are encouraged to former learners’ qualifications being revoked reach position of authority. He added the company was sent “a centre Further Education) stopped certificating contact NCFE.” as it had not carried out sufficient “external certificate confirming that Bright had been Bright courses in February following its She declined to comment on whether the moderation” of Bright courses. Meanwhile, others may think allocated centre number 13255”. investigation into alleged malpractice. The SFA would fund retraining for former learners She said: “Learners should not be concerned they cast too unprofessional Mr Bloor said the provider still claimed it findings have not been made public, but Bright who had passed publicly-funded Bright if they have contacted NCFE and have been a shadow on the college, and was accredited by ‘Highfield’ on its website — disputed “the findings and the sanction” and courses yet faced losing qualifications. told they are not registered, this is because five months after HABC suspended ties with appealed. NCFE has now confirmed it has OCR and Ascentis confirmed last week they they are about to become registered as we are even the sector. Learner lie-ins as college trials 10am starts Bright without approving any qualifications de-certificated at least one former learner, had cut ties with Bright — a move which, it is data cleansing and collating our final lists.” But there’s no doubt his for its learners [it had not removed the claim who took a level three assessing vocational thought, left the provider without an awarding Ofqual said it was “being kept up-to-date” public use, albeit retweeted, @fcdwhittaker which has moved to 1.30pm starts because meeting and initiated the discussion with as FE Week went to press]. achievement qualification with Bright. organisation. on the NCFE appeals process and enquiries [email protected] teenagers have “a biological disposition to existing students and staff, resulting in the But Ms Charles-Jones said she was “sticking A Skills Funding Agency (SFA) OCR declined to comment on whether it should be made to its helpline on 0300 3033346. of such an offensive word was going to bed late and struggling to get up conclusion that this would be a beneficial way by” her original statement. spokesperson indicated several former would revoke certification from former Bright Learners should email vocational. something exceptional. Fancy a 10am start at work? Most would, and early”. forward.” She said: “Bright have not received any learners could face losing their qualifications. learners. Ascentis had “no concerns” about [email protected], qualityassurance@ Mr Bravo is a popular and that’s what learners at North East Surrey It also comes after Skills Minister Matthew She would not comment on staff reaction, confirmation from Highfields that we are She said: “For learners that the agency has validity of its certificates. ascentis.co.uk, or [email protected] for College of Technology (Nescot) will be enjoying Hancock spoke about the importance of but defended the college’s record on an approved centre, we have no centre funded, the lead providers have been working Ms Charles-Jones said she planned to advice. friendly figure so it’s easy to as it bows to “students’ circadian rhythms”. punctuality after he was criticised for missing punctuality, and said a 10am start was not believe his apology (printed on Bosses at the 5,900-learner Epsom college a radio interview last year after he allegedly contrary to the idea of preparing learners for the front page) was sincere. are scrapping 9am starts from September in a overslept. working life. trial that comes in response to research by the However, sources at Nescot, which was She said: “We have no more issues with If only he hadn’t had to issue National Sleep Foundation and the University rated as good by Ofsted at its last inspection punctuality and attendance than any other it in the first place. of Minnesota, which claims exam results in 2010, have questioned the official rationale college in the sector. However, we are trialling improve if learners start later in the day. behind the later starts, with a worker who a number of new initiatives to continue Chris Henwood A college spokesperson told FE Week: “The wanted to remain anonymous telling FE improving punctuality, and we hope the later [email protected] change will fit the timetable better to the Week: “It’s not overly popular with the staff, starts will continue to improve this. students’ circadian rhythms, enable some particularly as it’s a vocational college and “All the staff at Nescot work extremely hard students, [like] those who live close enough there’s the idea of being self-motivated. to prepare students for the world of work. This Top Youth employment and use public transport, to take advantage “We have construction courses where ranges from our work with the REED NCFE convention Tweets of off-peak travel prices, allow students to learners have to be on site at 7am. We just Centre, which helps students find and prepare have catch-up, high-grades and employability don’t think it’s going to work. for full and part-time work and apprenticeship @ShoesmithKate workshops and help staff continue to improve “We have a lot of issues with lateness opportunities to the work experience students Research by @reedglobal found if show communication, staff development and already, and the Oyster card doesn’t become on many courses do as part of their studies. honesty in job application, 3x more likely teaching and learning.” cheaper until 9.30am. A lot of our learners live “We do not feel starting one hour later will 2 get job. This info underpins Reed/NCFE It is understood that the end of the college more than half an hour away but will wait for in any way jeopardise all our hard work and approach #YEC2014 day will not be extended to cater for the later the fare to be cheaper. I think it’s daft.” success in this area. We are also conscious that start, prompting concerns that break time is to But the spokesperson for the college, which not all businesses start at 9am — more and @daveyw73 be sacrificed instead. has a current Skills Funding Agency allocation more businesses have working patterns such Fragmented responsibility for school The move follows that of Hampton Court of £5.98m, said: “Research articles were as flexible working, shifts and working from to work transitions =no responsibility House private school, in East Molesey, Surrey, discussed at the Senior Management Team home.” @ImpetusPEF @Nomad_on_line @ InclusionCESI #YEC2014 comments @K_Rudiger Qualifications have become a surrogate Dame Ruth in fine fettle for Success rates change makes system institution. for skills, they are not, talent is leadership role return ‘overly complex’ Love them or hate them – it does look Does this not needlessly add yet another The article doesn’t emphasise the fact that as though the government does not trust much broader- Mike Thompson @ INTRODUCING BarclaysOnline #YEC2014 @CIPDL2W layer of complexity when we are looking there are two changes going on here. Ofsted’s view – at least they try and for clarity? For 16 to 19 success rates are contextualise what is happening in the @triches Surely this £5.5m should fall under disappearing completely and being system. The Schools Dilemma -Skills that are the ETF Leadership Management and replaced by five measures, and then there Data Mad RELEASE CLOUDS Governance initiative? is also a change to how current data is cut easiest to teach & test are easiest to The Further Education sector is constantly changing. To plan an effective response, you need automate & outsource #YEC2014 http:// They are already doing some by the SFA. Who will certificate Bright? to be completely up to date with the latest developments. To help you do that, three times a buff.ly/1v34wx6 #openbadges productive work through the Leadership The cutting of the data by type isn’t the But what about the learners who paid and year we’ll bring together what’s new and what’s coming soon in what we call Release Clouds. Conversation. real issue. were never registered? The first Release Cloud has arrived, and focuses on new qualifications, e-learning and services @InclusionCESI A think-tank should only exist if it The issue is the different way data is Who will exercise a duty of care to to help you plan for the future and meet the needs of your learners and employers. CITYANDGUILDS.COM Essentially it’s about young people’s informs tangible and meaningful action viewed by the different departments and them? ability to dream” #yec2014 within the sector. two systems that mean you don’t get a Daniel Tim Evans clear view of performance of a whole 10 @FEWEEK FE WEEK MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 FEWEEK.CO.UK EDITION 103 MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 11 profile

It’s a personal thing

What’s your favourite book? I recently enjoyed The White Queen. It was historical, which I like, but it was all political intrigue and family and fighting. Before that probably Catch 22, which had the same mixture We liked of intrigue

What do you do to switch off from work? I walk a lot. I live in the Peak District National living in Park so I go walking in the national park, rambling and scrambling up hillsides and things like that. It helps me to switch off. I’ve also got two Cavalier King Charles spaniels Libya. It dogs, Betty and Alice If you could invite anyone to a dinner

party, living or dead, who would it be? Graham speaking at the Continuous Improvement might sound Alexander the Great and Barack Obama conference last year and (right) at home in Peak District What did you want to be when you grew up? strange, but An engineer What’s your pet hate? Taking too long to do things. I like we did to do things quickly, which probably comes from my time in construction. I know people say builders take forever, but in major civil engineering contracting, things have to be done

BUILDING ON THE ‘POWER OF TRAINING’ Graham (right) on site in Benghazi, Libya, in the late 1970s

@rebeccaKcooney way, you are giving them something worthwhile, and the “We hadn’t actually lived in the house at “We liked living in Libya. It might sound [email protected] employer is getting something worthwhile rather than this stage, we’d gone on honeymoon, came strange, but we did.” up to the games and the games themselves. “If you can sacking them and starting again. back on the Monday morning to be told Their first son, Edward, was born in years old, the family returned to England, “We had joined up all the dots, so from raham Hasting-Evans’s career has revolved around “It just taught me the power of training — don’t give up on ‘You’re going to Halifax for a year — sell Libya, and second son, Geraint, was born and Hasting-Evans began to move towards Jobcentre Plus to being sifted out to whether building. people, give them a chance and that was it, I just got more and your house, off you go’,” he says. in Malta, where Hasting-Evans was sent to “building organisations, and building you could go through the training, if you G “I wanted to do something practical, to build things,” he invest in more into it.” “So we went to Halifax, then we went to work after he had completed his project in people”. pass the training then on to a job,” he says. says. Hasting-Evans, now aged 62, had always wanted to be an Preston, then we went to Libya. Libya. In 2006, Hasting-Evans was brought onto “Some had been unemployed and “And then from building things, I started to build engineer and he learned his desire to move forward and meet “I suppose I worked in an industry where The family also lived in Thailand, where the Olympic project as head of strategy, written off, some with three generations organisations and build people’s skills.” people in deadlines from his parents, farmers Nora and John. people moved around, and moving around once again, Hasting-Evans had a brush with and in 2007 moved over to develop the of unemployment — but we got them into It’s a career that has taken him from a small Welsh farm, to “My family were farmers and soldiers, and builders, so the world, I felt, was a great experience. political turmoil. employment and skills strategy for the work, we gave people mentors. Libya, Thailand, the London 2012 Olympics and to his current growing up there was always a sense of ‘that’s got to be done, “Not everyone does — a lot of people were “I was working in Thailand and I had to London 2012 Olympics. “On that scale, you can do something, you role as chief executive of awarding organisation NOCN. it’s that time of year, this must be done’,” says the dad-of-two. frightened of it… but I love those sorts of visit somewhere and the only way to get He laughs when I compare him to Hugh can create a programme over a period, and The turning point, from building things to building up the right “And when I went to university in Cardiff, my engineering things.” to it was cutting through Malaysia and Bonneville’s character in the BBC sitcom actually use it to help skills development people, he says, was while he was working at Bristol City courses was like that — things have got to be done, make a The couple moved to Libya in 1976, during back into Thailand — it was the only road 2012 about a fictional Olympics delivery within the industry — and I enjoyed doing Council. decision now and get on with it, so I just got used to that way the war between Libya and Egypt. through. team. that, it was really fulfilling.” “I will always remember this one chap was brought in to be way you are of thinking.” “That wasn’t necessarily the most “And there were bandits and a war on the “It’s a bit like Yes, Minister, and like He adds: “I remember getting told a few sacked because he and his whole team — there were four of Hasting-Evans jumped at the chance to do a degree with a pleasant of experiences, but we were safe,” border, so I had to have a Thai army platoon anything else there are strains of truth in years ago, when I was told I was moving to them — were useless,” says Hasting-Evans. year in the industry, spending six months at an engineering he says. take me half way across no-man’s land, then it but it’s the exaggeration which makes it Bristol not to think of it as a challenge — it’s “So they came in and I sat them down and it turned out that company in Cardiff and six months in Denmark, building a “We were in Benghazi, probably not that a Malaysian army platoon take me around fascinating TV, and makes everyone laugh an opportunity.” of the four of them, three couldn’t read or write — including giving them new town which, he says, “was fantastic — that experience far from the front, but it only lasted about to the other side, then picked up the other and enjoy it,” he says. Now at NOCN, Hasting-Evans can see the supervisor — and they had never been trained. was really enriching and opened your mind up”. two weeks and petered out.” side by another Thai platoon, with about 10 “But what struck all of us that worked on plenty of opportunities for the organisation “So I got the three that couldn’t read or write into literacy It was at university that Hasting-Evans met his future wife, He adds: “It was obviously very tense, and soldiers in an armoured vehicle, then all the it — a really tough, professional team — was in the sector and finally has no plans to studies at the local college and there was a bit of reluctance, something Maggie. there were rumours, people saying ‘they’re way back, so I could spend about three or the feeling that this is going to get done, we move on. but they did go. He graduated and was offered a job at the company he had going to bomb Benghazi tonight’ and of four hours there doing some work. are going to make whatever decisions we “I’ve enjoyed my time at NOCN — we’ve “And about three months down the line, they were one of worked for during his course and the following year he and course it didn’t happen. “I wondered afterwards, ‘Why am I doing need to, whenever we need to make them.” got a great board and great teams, so I am the better workforce groups, and they were quite productive. Maggie bought a house and got married. “The Libyan people were fabulous, a this?’ It was a bit surreal at the time.” The £9bn contract involved employing enjoying doing that very much indeed,” he “It taught me that if you can invest in people in the right worthwhile” However, the company had other plans. really welcoming, nice people. As Edward, now in his 30s, got to eight around 100,000 people over the five year run- says. 12 @FEWEEK FE WEEK MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 FEWEEK.CO.UK EDITION 103 MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 13 Gazelle summit experts expert

available to assess the PAYE model than the Critically, the government contribution apprenticeship aredit model, and unbalanced will be a ‘credit’ released at the point of signe because there was insufficient explanation of purchase, hence the title ‘apprenticeship how the Apprenticeship Credit model would credit’ model. There is no way the Treasury work operationally. is going to put cash into the account for any sutherland Mark corney Indeed, the key dimension of the length of time which might not be used for sharron robbie Independent policy consultant apprenticeship credit model was only apprenticeship training. Principal, North Hertfordshire College Head of corporate relations, employability surfacing late in the consultation. The Each employer will have a single and enterprise, City College Plymouth Taking account of the government’s Coalition has asked for views on an apprenticeship account. Yet, employers Facing up to the corporate challenge apprenticeship credit ‘account’ model, with with more than one apprentice will need a in the classroom and the boardroom apprenticeship credit proposal the key word being neither apprenticeship separate budget line for each because their Taking a new, entrepreneurial nor credit but account. own cash contribution will vary according While PAYE has figured heavily bodies should be calling on the government Each employer would have an account to the sector standard — engineering is more The challenge facing young people is the The good news is that we can deliver better view of employers in coverage of the government’s to publish a ‘technical specification’ into which they pay their contribution in expensive than business administration, and same as the one facing college principals learning experiences by having the courage apprenticeship funding proposals, the consultation on the PAYE and apprenticeship cash, which then triggers the government age of the apprentice. The cash balance on — develop your skills and your offer to embrace self-organised learning, and other option of an apprenticeship credit credit models before parliamentary recess contribution. the account will be almost meaningless for if you want to survive, explains Signe develop commercial learning opportunities, account has enjoyed less focus. Mark on July 22 with a closing date three months From the employer perspective, if a cash employers with two or more apprentices. Sutherland. embedding students within college or local The role of FE colleges is changing, job creation. Yet to continue to have this Corney looks at the latter option. later. contribution led to being overdrawn on Finally, there is the question of the agency businesses. explains Sharron Robbie. Viewing impact FE colleges need to think big and The case is simple. their general account they could face bank that will manage the apprenticeship account he entrepreneurial mindset has become a Teaching must be paid for, but learning can businesses as customers, stakeholders develop multi-purpose relationships with n interesting juncture has been reached Employers and other stakeholders charges. system. An employer with more than one Tnecessity for the next generation workforce, occur in a wide variety of settings that do not and strategic partners is key, she says. employers. Aon apprenticeship funding reform now the have had more than twelve months to Employers will want to know that they apprentice in two different sectors will only faced with an unprecedentedly challenging always need to incur the cost of the teaching Employers should be seen as customers — technical consultation has closed. become acquainted with the PAYE model can retrieve their cash instantaneously if the want to deal with one account managing and volatile employment market. process. ecently, we’ve seen a real change in the purchasing skills training, not necessarily Employers are urging the Coalition and through the technical consultation apprentice fails to turn up after registration agency. The Student Loans Company, HMRC It is no different for college leaders, who Students can access the college resources Rway FE colleges connect and engage with accredited. They should also be seen as or leaves before completing because they find or a single sector body or local enterprise must lead this change from the front, setting and learning environments 24/7 and we need employers. stakeholders — participating in college to ‘get the mechanism right’ if it decides appreciate the problems facing employers the right example and creating new income to enable them to do so. There has been a major shift from the governance, curriculum development and to route public grant funding for post-16 who require a reimbursement from Her a job elsewhere, becomes injured or ill, or partnership could fulfil this national agency sources. Across our group, and indeed across the traditional, transactional attitude to a more skills development to benefit the wider apprenticeships to each employer. Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) dies. role. That is the challenge we have sought to wider sector, we are seeing real innovations strategic, partnership-focused approach. community. Finally, employers are also This is exactly the message to send to if the grant funding for apprenticeships To limit their financial exposure And yet, all these issues have a familiar address at North Hertfordshire College, in the imaginative planning and creation of This change has been borne out of a number strategic partners — collaborating on new ministers and officials at this stage in the exceeds their monthly PAYE/NI payment. employers will also want to release their ring to them. They applied to Individual having decided three years ago to invest in opportunities for students to engage in of key drivers. developments, infrastructure and joint policy-making process, but a stronger The reimbursement systems looks good on cash contribution by instalments. After all, Learning Accounts. Then the goal was to a long term transformation with the aim college across the whole day while accessing The economic downturn is an obvious ventures. proposal is needed. paper but there is scepticism about whether the government is expecting to release its route public grant funding through to each of becoming a leading and recognisable tutoring for a reducing part of their place to start. Employers require training By developing this three-pronged Presumably the Coalition will finally HMRC and the Treasury can make it work. contribution in relation to 80 per cent on individual via an account. Today, the goal is entrepreneurial college. programme. that’s relevant, responsive and affordable relationship between FE and employers announce its choice between the PAYE and The fact is the Coalition issued an programme and 20 per cent on achievement. to route public grant funding through to each It has meant fundamental changes to rather than a ‘one-size-fits-all’ offer focused we can drive the local, national and global the apprenticeship credit models in the unfair and unbalanced ‘technical funding Indeed, the response to the proposition employer via an account. This has not been pedagogy: the need to provide our students on NVQs and apprenticeships. community forward, and still remain Autumn Statement, due in early December. consultation’. that employers need to ‘put some skin in the attempted before in post-16 education and with a more commercial and applied Industry needs to be leaner and sharper, student-focussed. Our challenge But employers and their representative Unfair because more time has been game’ could be ‘we will when you do’. skills policy. learning experience has been at the core of a with a workforce that’s multi-skilled, adds At City College Plymouth we believe in curriculum change programme that has now now is to continue value and delivers efficiency savings. the need to fundamentally transform our been underway for two years. In response, colleges have to place educational offer for a changing world of already know is true — that colleges are a communities. We are creating new learning to develop employer engagement at the very heart of work, one driven by new businesses, new vital part of both economic prosperity and As the report by the Commission on Adult environments that allow students to develop what we do. technologies and a global economy. This personal wellbeing for a great many people. Vocational Teaching and Learning made an understanding of commercial realities with the scale To keep abreast of changing industry impacts what we deliver and how we deliver, Lynne Now is the time to demonstrate that we plain, we need a ‘two-way street’, and our alongside development of skills and progress demands colleges have had to evolve, and we have defined this in collaboration are willing, and well-equipped, to lead more paper challenges employers to step up to the towards qualifications. and efficiency developing stronger communication with employers. strategic and effective employer engagement. plate also. Although in their infancy, we are already strategies, building robust and sustainable We have developed and implemented Sedgmore more typically We make no apology for presenting They must not ignore their local college, seeing how this model can prepare learners to partnerships that provide mutual benefits to a robust employer engagement strategy over Executive director, 157 Group challenging questions and messages for both and they must develop an understanding of succeed either within an existing business or associated with both parties, and ensuring that we the past five years, and this is by creating their own employment. are perceived as well-established and yielding positive and mutually beneficial colleges and employers. the future workforce pipeline that will enable Our challenge now is to continue to develop the corporate credible by our local economic results. We have not achieved this overnight. A new conversation between them to continue to grow by engaging with with the scale and efficiency more typically community. It has taken time and money to establish and college leaders. If we believe Confederation associated with the corporate world. world Add to this the constant changes in manage the excellent relationships colleges and employers — next steps We make of British Industry director-general John At North Hertfordshire College, we cannot government funding, in particular recent the college now has with industry. However, Cridland’s words at the recent national afford to make the level of investment in cuts to the adult skills budget and changes to this investment is paying real no apology for Gazelle conference, employers have never technology-supported delivery that is needed, Our ambition is to embed science, the funding of apprenticeships. dividends. It’s time for colleges to “acknowledge employers which already go beyond the presenting been more ready to do this. We know if we simply try to secure that innovation from technology, engineering and maths (Stem) Colleges have to be far more creative Our students and staff have access to a publicly that their primary purpose commissioning and supplying of individual that they, too, must ‘put their money and within our college budget. in our vocational curriculum and indeed to and entrepreneurial in our approach to range of industry-focused activity enhancing is their contribution to the economy,” training programmes and are having challenging commitment where their mouth is’. Instead, by clustering together with a group use Stem centres as experimental areas for identifying new income streams in order to the learning experience and supporting believes Lynne Sedgmore. genuine impact on the economy in their own So — what next? This cannot be a report of like-minded colleges in Gazelle, we can learners where they can experience both realise income targets. continual professional development. Our questions and localities. which sits on shelves and gathers dust. explore bigger solutions and begin to test our self-organised learning and sustain project The FE sector needs to be more curriculum is designed and developed kills Minister Matthew Hancock officially But these examples have not been The future prosperity of our skills system ability to make the sort of large investments developments that meet with a different entrepreneurial, not only in what it by industry. Our employer endorsement messages for launched our paper, A New Conversation, harnessed into something we might that will be needed to deliver affordable financial and learning vision than had delivers to students, but also in how it ‘does scheme ensures there is constant dialogue S is too critical for that. The Education and written together with our partners at the UK recognise as a truly national approach until both colleges and learning to increasing numbers of employers, hitherto been possible. business’. Employers demand work-ready with the business community. We are seen Training Foundation will build on our employees and students in our communities. We need more initiatives and innovations students. Enterprise and entrepreneurial by business and the wider communities as a Commission for Employment and Skills and now, and we intend the report will contribute employers action points in designing their future There is of course a financial as well as a and we are likely to achieve those by working activity are integral to ensuring students valued strategic partner. the Gazelle Group, on Tuesday, May 13. to doing just that. programme, and colleges must create curriculum imperative in the redesign and collaboratively and by sharing the best leave with the depth of technical knowledge At City College Plymouth we have This timely paper, and initially published What is clear from Ministers, and our chances, both locally and nationally, the re-engineering of our curriculum delivery practice that undoubtedly exists within almost and also the breadth of employability skills built a strong reputation with employers, on Tuesday, April 29, sets out key challenges own research, is that we cannot wait for the The time has come, we believe, for colleges for strategic relationships to grow and processes. all of our colleges across the UK. required by employers. ensuring our provision is employer-led and for ‘raising the game’ of college-employer government to fund and shape the future for to acknowledge publicly that their primary flourish. Put simply, we don’t think the funding North Hertfordshire College has put The positive impact FE has on focused on growth areas identified as vital relations. us. purpose is their contribution to the economy. We hope also that there will be a much exists, in either the short or longer term, to innovation and entrepreneurship at the very the economic community cannot be to the economic regeneration and success We propose that to fulfil the massive Mr Hancock says repeatedly that he wants This may require, for some, a re-examination more concerted approach to showcasing the deliver vocational programmes in the manner core of its investment and its mission to underestimated — whether it’s our of our city and beyond. FE must embrace potential colleges have for contributing to colleges to break free from the constraints of who we believe we are accountable to, excellent examples already in existence. and style that we have delivered in the past. sustain a vibrant and successful college over alignment of the curriculum to local key the opportunity to develop long term growth in the UK, these relationships must of funding rules and to establish their own a deeper understanding of local economic The 157 Group, in partnership, will The notion of a wholly tutor-supported the next five years. priority employment sectors to develop a relationships with employers, providing become far more strategic than transactional. place as social enterprises and drivers of drivers and a soul-searching re-appraisal continue to do all it can to help colleges to vocational learning environment, With traditional funding and revenue labour market skilled in the competencies as they do, strong partnership working, Our report reflects the array of excellent economic growth. timetabled for convenience in a constrained sources set only to diminish in the years required for growth and competitiveness, or sustainable collaborations and community of the qualities needed by our leaders and ‘up their game’ and be recognised for the practice already out there — many colleges The prize is a big one — recognition by organisational structure is no longer ahead, for colleges the only way is surely the support for business start-ups through cohesion, helping to stimulate wealth and our teachers. This does not need to negate important engines of economic growth that acceptable either to students or staff. innovation. incubation activity to promote wealth and job creation. have excellent partnerships with high-profile employers, and others, of what we in sector the crucial social role we play in our they truly are. 14 @FEWEEK FE WEEK MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 FEWEEK.CO.UK EDITION 103 MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 15 CAMPUS ROUND-UP sponsored by Your weekly guide First exhibition for 69-year-old fine art student who bakes works in oven FEATURED CAMPUS MOVERS to who’s new and Artwork baked in the oven and electric students around you and a tutor giving good ROUND-UP sander-scoured paintings are the kind advice. who’s leaving of offerings you might expect of Young “There aren’t any other students my SHAKERS British Artists Damien Hirst or Tracey age on the course [they range from 20 to 53 & Emin, but college HND student Stephanie years old]. But I have made some really good Gary Headland Sanders is turning heads with such pieces friends. We all support each other.” whe new Skills Funding Agency services. at the age of 69, writes Paul Offord. Linda Drury, course leader in fine art, said: Tdirector of apprenticeships and She said: “I am thrilled to be joining Sue Husband “I think it is fantastic that Linda came back delivery service has taken up her the organisation and I’m looking fter a working life spent in retail, to education later in life. She is talented and post. forward to meeting the team and sector knowledge and experience will AStephanie Sanders decided to follow her prolific and I am sure she will succeed at Former McDonalds UK education getting to work. be a valuable asset to us, ensuring passion for fine art in retirement — and at putting on her own exhibitions after leaving boss Sue Husband started in her new “I want to support the ambitious that quality and reform is driven the age of 69 she has just taken part in her college.” role on Tuesday (May 12), with FE reform agenda and work with the forward in the sector.” first exhibition. Stephanie, a mother-of-two from Week having exclusively revealed the sector to continue to raise the profile Meanwhile, Lincoln College Group She achieved a distinction in an art Stourbridge, decided the time had finally move three months ago. of apprenticeships and traineeships has appointed a new chief executive. foundation diploma at Birmingham come to develop a lifelong passion for art four Her agency duties include while also promoting the benefits of Gary Headland will take over from John Allen Metropolitan College Art & Design two years years ago. ago and stayed on to do a fine art higher She enrolled on a level four art foundation providing expert advice and support these training opportunities and the current principal and chief executive success in his future role.” John Allen, who will retire in Mr Headland said: “I will build national diploma (HND). diploma at the Birmingham Metropolitan Above: Stephanie Sanders with some pictures she exhibited at Ruskin Glass Centre. to Local Enterprise Partnerships, success it can bring to individuals.” And her distinctive approach, that includes College Art & Design. She achieved a Right: The electric sander used by Stephanie to scour her pictures and other local partners, on the Ms Husband was in charge of July after 14 years in the post. It is upon the excellent work that has baking works of art in the oven and even distinction two years later. funding and skills elements of local training at McDonald’s when its understood the principal’s post will already been started and combine using an electric sander on paintings, has Stephanie progressed to a level five higher mix of colours that I can use. growth plans; and encouraging apprenticeship scheme received be reviewed by Mr Headland. my deep public service experience paid dividends with three of her pieces national diploma (HND) in fine art, which she “Sometimes I have been known to put colleges and providers to deliver more a grade two rating from Ofsted, Mr Allen said: “I’ve enjoyed many and motivation with the strong having been displayed, along with those of is due complete in June. things in the oven and cook them to see good quality apprenticeships and in November 2010, following the happy years at the college and have commercial acumen that I have other fine art students, at an exhibition at One of her current projects involves what happens. I recently put some wood traineeships, and intervening in cases company’s only inspection to date. been lucky enough to oversee some gained during my time in the Ruskin Glass Centre, in Stourbridge. painting layers of red, blue and yellow acrylic I had painted with layers of colours. I of failure or high risk. Barbara Spicer, interim chief major developments. I would like to private sector to deliver innovative “The good thing about being older is that paint on top of each other, on a variety of wanted to see what would happen when She will also aim to help the executive of the agency said: “I am thank the college staff and students and highly collaborative ways of you don’t mind being a bit different about different surfaces. the paint heated up and blistered. Left: A work of art created delivery of high quality national absolutely delighted to be able to for their support and hard work over providing top-quality education and things. I like experimenting,” she told FE “I started off with bits of card but then “I’m really interested in different by Stephanie for her careers and apprenticeship vacancy welcome Sue. Her wealth of private the last 14 years and wish Gary every training.” Week. moved on to A1-sized sheets of birch-faced ply textures and have also used layers art foundation diploma containing cornflower, Stephanie added: “I had always been wood,” she said. of wax and stones, bits of copper, bits of copper and an interested in art in the past, but never “I used an electric sander on the layers of personal items like an earring, which earring If you want to let us know of any new faces at the top of your college, training provider or completed any formal training. paint to see how the colours mixed together I mixed with bits of glass, plaster and awarding organisation please let us know by emailing [email protected] “It’s good to have a group of like-minded and kept the dust because that made another cornflower.”

Let’s Pull Together

Because together, The world of further education will be celebrated at the developing students in a complex world. Sunday Times Festival of Education this summer with a we achieve more dedicated strand organised by the Association The prestigious line-up of high-profile speakers of Colleges. includes: Baroness Estelle Morris of Yardley, Former Secretary of State for Education and Skills, Alison Wolf, It will highlight the exemplary work of further education Sir Roy Griffiths Professor of Public Sector Management, OCR is ahead of the game. As a Cambridge Assessment exam board, There is no one better quali ed to help educators enhance their colleges and examine how they help young people learn Karen O’Donoghue, President, Career Development part of the University of Cambridge, our vocational range of quali cations learners’ ability to make informed decisions, to allow them to sustain vocational skills and gain qualifications that businesses Institute and Daniella Distazio a Business Apprentice at need. MBDA UK. are developed with employers and educators. They are proven to support a job and be responsible citizens. people’s education, raising their con dence and aspirations. Achieve more with Oxford, Cambridge and RSA. With innovation and entrepreneurialism at its core hear how the FE sector is leading the way in guiding and To book go to: festivalofeducation.com/tickets Learner of the Year Award Sponsor. Quality Vocational Quali cations, Cambridge Style

FE WEEK

See ocr.org.uk/vocational to empower learners for employment and life. Supported by the sector’s favourite newspaper 16 @FEWEEK FE WEEK MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 FEWEEK.CO.UK EDITION 103 MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 17 jobs National Employer Engagement Manager Join the team campaigning for the personal, social and economic benefi ts from lifelong learning (Field Based) DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE skills DEPUTY PRINCIPAL: CURRICULUM, PERFORMANCE AND (Designated research and development lead) To £90,000 Leicester based, but fully fl exible £40,000 · plus bonus · plus car INNOVATION (£70K + BENEFITS) “ Fighting and campaigning for the rights of adults to have learning opportunities throughout their lives – it’s that simple.” David Hughes, CEO, niace We are one of the UK's largest and most SUPPORT BCoT has achieved so much…help us do more! We are… reputable Training Providers. Specialising OPPORTUNITIES The context. Under exceptional leadership, BCoT has an unambiguous commitment to excellence and is on its way to …the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE), the national voice for in Basic Skills, we support adults with their being outstanding. Current data exceed targets and place BCoT in the top performance categories for colleges, across lifelong learning. A well known, nationally respected development organisation and English and maths needs. think-tank, leading on issues central to the economic renewal of the UK. We want all adults the board. TARGETS to have opportunities throughout their lives to participate in and benefi t from learning. Due to growth, we are currently looking STRATEGY The role. BCoT’s strategic development continues and the role of the Deputy Principal will be to ensure further We work… for an experienced Employer enhancement of quality and sustain curriculum innovation. The Deputy Principal will provide focussed leadership across …with a wide range of people and organisations to improve knowledge and understanding Engagement Manager from within all curriculum provision, ensuring college-wide engagement and consistency. Our expectation is always excellence. of adult learning in order to support and encourage better practice, policy and promotion. the Further Education Sector. Our work is local, national and pan-European, across all types of learning including literacy The person. You will be in a leading and highly visible curriculum role in a college or similar environment and will have and numeracy, digital, further/higher education, apprenticeships, workplace, community We are currently working in TRAINING demonstrated successful engagement with curriculum improvement, including both FE and HE, as well as innovation in learning, leisure and citizenship. partnership with SMEs and learning and teaching. More than anything… national clients throughout the UK. You will have experience of motivating and leading staff to deliver at consistently high levels of quality, will be influential …this role will ensure that our development work and research is of optimum quality, makes GROWTH an impact, and creates change with decision-makers, practitioners, employers, academics, amongst peers, and have credibility and presence in external contexts. The Employer Engagement Government and across civil society. Manager will be focused on Specifi cally… How to apply. You can access a candidate pack at identifying opportunities with STRATEGY …you will look outwards to engage with Government departments and agencies, partner employers to support their www.hirewire.co.uk/FE/1053284/THW_JobBoard.aspx organisations, employers, practitioners, learners, our members, funders and supporters to lead our national R&D activity. workforce with their Basic Skills Candidates looking for an informal conversation can arrange this by contacting Stella Holmes on “We want every adult to have lifelong opportunities to learn.” Come and help us deliver needs. The role will be to 01256 306369. on that goal. implement a national employer TARGETS Closing date is noon on 11 June. Find out more by fi rst downloading the briefi ng pack on the role from engagement strategy that will Final Interviews are scheduled for 2 and 3 July www.davidsonpartners.com/ACE1022 where you can also watch an introductory video lead to exceeding set targets of clip from David Hughes. Subsequently, for an informal and confi dential discussion, learner numbers. contact our advisors Hamish Davidson or Colin Horwath on 020 7183 0363 quoting ref Please send covering letter and CV to BCoT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all its learners. The successful applicant will be required to undertake appropriate ACE1022, or by email at: [email protected] (M: 07932 698807), checks, including an enhanced DBS. [email protected] (M: 07766 104662). [email protected] Closing date for applications is Friday 06 June 2014. BCoT is an equal opportunities employer and we welcome enquiries from everyone and value diversity in our workforce.

P: G TO IN S D T X N We are looking for a: E A T N S SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR T SALARY: £22.5K TO £27.5K (DOE) U Greenwich, London

O

Responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the Lsect and FE Week office. Roles will include: general office administration, financial administration, supervision of junior staff, assisting with the execution of events, supporting the sales executive and editorial team.

Closing date: 5pm, Wednesday, May 28

To apply email: [email protected] For more information visit jobs.feweek.co.uk

Lsect is publisher of 18 @FEWEEK FE WEEK MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 FEWEEK.CO.UK EDITION 103 MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014 19 jobs

VICE PRINCIPAL: ADULT & EMPLOYMENT PATHWAYS

EXTERNAL VACANCY Westminster Kingsway is one of London’s largest, most respected and successful FE colleges. Our unique location £88k + up to £8k PRP – with four landmark sites across central London – is complemented by a diverse and stable income profile. Our Excellent benefits reputation for innovation, high quality, and cutting-edge thinking puts us at the forefront in responding to the skills needs Lecturer 1 (A-Level English Literature) of adult students, employers and London Government. This is an exceptional opportunity to join our senior management team and develop your career in a high-achieving, Lecturer in English Post Ref: 5669, 22.2 hours per week, Temporary until commercially-oriented organisation. Visible and influential across the College and beyond, you’ll bring strategic and June 2015, £22,350 - £25,137 per annum (pro rata) operational leadership to the work we do with both employers and adult students. Crucial to your success will be for GCSE and Functional Skills (dependent on qualifi cations) the development and expansion of an overall offer which maximises commercial revenues, attracts UK and European funding and deepens our strong relationships with local and regional partners. You’ll also manage relevant curriculum Part time pro rata of up to An opportunity has arisen for a part-time, temporary (A-Level English) lecturing post in the areas and international provision, so an understanding of curriculum management will be a distinct advantage. department of Sciences & Humanities. The post offers the opportunity to be part of a successful £31,628 p.a. campus set in 7 acres of green belt in We’re looking for someone whose experience and insight is matched by an exemplary professional profile. team supporting high achievement in A-Level provision. a peaceful setting. The College has Communication, influencing and partnerships will be second nature to you, and you’ll have a firm grasp of how to Sessional £26.82 per hour excellent transport links and is set in We are seeking to appoint an outstanding classroom practitioner in the A-Level English Literature achieve strategic objectives by working across the organisation. Entrepreneurial, creative, and motivated by challenge, curriculum; demonstrating innovative teaching, learning and assessment practices to ensure a location convenient to London and you’ll relish the scope and complexity of the role – and will enable us to make the most of our considerable potential. We require an enthusiastic, positive outcomes for learners and to work closely with other lecturing staff across the department experienced classroom teacher to the South East and offers a large free to support the curriculum development and standardisation across all sixth form campuses. Please visit www.wkcvp.co.uk for more information about the role and to apply. For an informal and confidential deliver English GCSE and Functional on-site car park. discussion about the role, please contact our retained consultant, Shahidul Miah, on 07581 230171. The successful applicant will have a fi rst degree in English or related subject and possess a Skills to a wide range of students teaching qualifi cation. Closing date: noon, Monday 9 June 2014. Committed to success through equality and diversity. working on vocational programmes. The closing date for online Applicants should be able to demonstrate, in their personal statement, practical examples of applications is Friday 30 May 2014 This position will suit someone who is how they fulfi l the person specifi cation. a qualified teacher with a proven track and interviews will be held on Monday record of success in delivering English 9 June 2014. To fi nd out more about this great opportunity visit sunderlandcollege.ac.uk/vacancies www.westking.ac.uk alternatively email [email protected] or call 0191 511 6046 to request GCSE and Functional Skills. an application pack. For further information and details on In return we are able to offer a final how to apply please visit All applications must be received by Thursday 29th May 2014 salary pension scheme, generous www.nescot.ac.uk and follow the We are working towards equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the holidays and the facilities of a College links for ‘working at Nescot’. community. We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. To advertise with us call Hannah Smith on FE 020 81234 778 WEEK www.nescot.ac.uk Nescot, Reigate Road, Ewell, Epsom, Surrey, KT17 3DS NescotCollege @Nescot

Tutor – Maths Functional Skills (Casual, hourly paid) Ref Number: Lancs01742 SECTION LEADER FOR Salary: £22.92 per hour HAIR & BEAUTY Based at various locations throughout Lancashire £41,439 to £43,587 per annum Lancashire Adult Learning require casual, hourly paid tutors to work in Fleetwood, Lancaster and We are looking for an outstanding candidate to Morecambe areas: join our multi-award winning College and lead the Are you looking for an exciting curriculum section towards further success. Adult Skills: -Maths Functional Skills Redcar & Cleveland College is a dynamic and progressive organisation which DRIVING challenge and an opportunity to work offers the following opportunities to be part of its ambitious plans for the As the Section Leader for Hair, Beauty, with a forward thinking College? future, providing best value and excellence in Further Education and training. To plan and deliver high quality, appropriate and relevant learning activities which meet group and Complementary Therapies & Counselling, you will individual needs. AMBITION Middlesbrough College engages with over 12,000 students each year in the widest range Exciting opportunity to be part of the new team that drives the college forward manage a team of committed and professional full- of subject areas and as such is the largest provider of Further Education in the Teesside. in achieving its ambitions for the future. time and fractional staff from a variety of specialist Essential Qualifications INSPIRING Degree or equivalent backgrounds who work together to teach across Lecturer in English Director of Faculty Ref 13/14#24 Full teaching qualification at level 4 or 5 (or willing to qualify within three years of the start of the curriculum. Strong budgeting, interpersonal and employment) SUCCESS Engineering, Construction, Sport and Recreation Subject specialist diploma (English, Maths or ESOL) at level 5 within one year of appointment or Middlesbrough College is a thriving and buoyant (Functional Skills/GCSE) (including Uniformed Services) organisational skills are essential for this challenging within one year of completion of full teaching qualification (whichever is soonest) institution recruiting record numbers of full-time and exciting post. You must be an excellent teacher Subject qualifications to relevant level, normally minimum level 3 students, achieving consistently strong examination Salary £23,697 - £33,801 per annum Director of Faculty Ref 13/14#25 and have the skills to inspire, motivate and lead your Mandatory qualifications for teaching the subject specialism results and gaining its reputation and profile as a Full-time, 37 hours per week, Permanent English qualification at level 2 or above major ‘player’ in the Teesside and beyond, raising Business, IT and Computing, Digital and Creative Media, team in our relentless drive to ensure high quality, Maths qualification at level 2 or above (within one year of appointment) standards and economic prospects across the Initial Teacher Training, Access, HE and Travel and Tourism sector relevant provision within our grade 1 section. region. Middlesbrough College is ambitious for its Essential Experience and Skills community and place inclusion and excellence at Lecturer in Maths Good benefits package with salary : £36,584 - £41,199 Experience of teaching adults within the lifelong learning sector the heart of its core values. The College moved to You must be able to demonstrate a clear Evidence of successful teaching and learning practice (Functional Skills/GCSE) Full details of all College vacancies can be found on our website at its ‘state of the art’ building in 2008 and has opened understanding of the needs of a range of learners Ability to design high quality learning experiences, including planning, preparing learning a £7 million Sixth Form Centre (MC6) in 2012 and www.cleveland.ac.uk or ring for details. resources, monitoring progress and achievement and how these may be met, hold a Level 3 invests over £1.5 million every year in capital Salary £23,697 - £33,801 per annum A College application form must be completed for all vacancies. Excellent English and Maths skills resources. This record of achievement is delivered by Closing date for applications is Friday 23 May 2014. qualification in Hair and/or Beauty, have extensive Excellent inter-personal skills Full-time, 37 hours per week, Permanent Effective administrative skills the College’s most prized asset, its staff. Interviews will be held on Monday 2 June 2014. industry experience and hold a teaching and Further investment is planned by 2015 with a All applicants are subject to appropriate checks to ensure their assessor qualification. suitability to work with vulnerable adults and children. Informal Discussion: Susan Douglass 01257 516331 purpose built £12 million STEM Centre which will align its curriculum to the demands of local and To apply, please visit the Job Vacancies page on the Closing date: 12 Noon on Thursday 22 May regional industries in our region. College website www.mbro.ac.uk Application details: Go to http://jobs.lancashire.gov.uk Interview date: 3 June 2014 If you have any questions, please contact Closing Date: 07/06/14 All appointments are subject to a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check and The Human Resources Team on (01642) 333554 receipt of two satisfactory references. For further information visit Closing date: Monday 26th May 2014 at 23.59pm Call 01642 473132 www.bridgwater.ac.uk Click www.cleveland.ac.uk Some schools are excluded as Middlesbrough College is an equal opportunities employer and or telephone 01278 441221 commitment is on an individual is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of basis. Mail [email protected] children and vulnerable adults. Apply online at: www.lancashire.gov.uk/vacancies 20 @FEWEEK FE WEEK MONDAY, MAY 19, 2014

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How to play: Fill in all blank squares FE Week Sudoku challenge making sure that each row, column and Spot the difference 3 by 3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9 to WIN a retro FE Week mug!

Last Week’s solutions Difficulty: 7 1 8 2 7 8 1 3 9 2 4 6 5 EASY 6 2 3 5 4 1 7 9 8 5 4 9 1 7 9 4 5 7 6 8 1 2 3 3 9 4 4 1 2 8 5 6 9 3 7 6 5 8 6 9 2 7 3 5 4 1 3 5 7 4 1 9 6 8 2 6 8 1 9 8 6 3 7 2 5 4 2 4 5 3 6 1 2 4 8 7 9 2 7 4 9 8 5 3 1 6 7 6 4 Difficulty: 4 5 3 2 6 EASY 2 9 5 1

Difficulty: 3 2 8 4 2 3 1 6 8 5 9 7 MEDIUM 6 1 8 7 5 9 4 3 2 4 1 5 7 9 2 4 3 8 1 6 3 8 7 4 5 9 8 6 3 7 5 2 4 1 2 5 4 9 1 6 7 8 3 6 2 4 1 3 7 4 8 2 9 6 5 1 7 3 9 5 6 2 4 1 7 8 7 5 8 7 4 2 8 3 1 6 5 9 8 6 1 5 9 7 3 2 4 Spot five differences. First correct entry wins a retro FE Week mug. Text your 3 6 7 1 9 Difficulty: name and picture of your completed spot the difference to 07969 166 374. 1 3 MEDIUM Last week’s spot the difference winner was Huw Morris, director of skills, Solutions: higher education and lifelong learning, Welsh Government. His 10-year-old daughter, Nesta (pictured), completed the puzzle on his behalf. 1 9 8 Next week