FE teacher initial training and development: call for evidence

Feedback updated 15 Jan 2026

We asked

DfE asked stakeholders to submit information about the pedagogical underpinning of initial teacher education (ITE) and professional development (PD) programmes for Further Education (FE) teachers. 

You said

A total of 37 responses were received from individuals and organisations spanning a variety of stakeholders, including FE colleges, universities, other learning providers, and representative bodies. Responses cited sources of evidence and gave views on the essential elements of high-quality teacher training.

We did

The responses received – along with other sources of evidence gathered – have informed the work of an Expert Advisory Group tasked with supporting DfE to develop new guidance on curriculum content for FE ITE programmes. If parliament approves the relevant legislation, we expect to publish statutory guidance ahead of the 2026 to 2027 academic year.

Closed 12 Dec 2025

Opened 17 Oct 2025

Contact

FEITE.CALLFOREVIDENCE@education.gov.uk

Overview

We're seeking evidence of relevant, high-quality theory and knowledge that underpins early career preparation for teachers in the Further Education sector.

Why your views matter

Teacher preparation encompasses both initial training and professional development. We want evidence of effective foundational pedagogy to inform future policy.

We would like to hear from a wide range of individuals and organisations including:

  • those delivering initial teacher education (ITE) courses for FE teachers
  • providers of professional development (PD) programmes for new and early career FE teachers
  • those responsible for developing the content of ITE qualifications and apprenticeships
  • Individuals who have a quality assurance role or responsibility associated with FE teacher training and development
  • Academic researchers/organisations who are active in this area.

This is an opportunity for stakeholders to provide evidence that will inform the development of new statutory guidance for all providers of FE ITE in England, subject to the passage of legislation through Parliament.

What happens next

Evidence submitted will be considered by DfE and an Expert Advisory Group to assess its robustness and relevance for the curriculum of FE initial teacher education programmes. Evidence received will inform the development and publication of new statutory guidance. Decisions on the content will be taken by Ministers considering the advice of this group.

We expect that full guidance will be published on gov.uk ahead of the start of the 2026 to 2027 academic year.

Audiences

  • Adult education providers
  • Awarding organisations
  • Designated institutions and 16-19 academies
  • Further education colleges
  • Independent specialist colleges
  • Sixth form colleges
  • Teachers
  • Universities

Interests

  • Apprenticeships
  • Community learning
  • HE
  • Lifelong learning
  • Teachers' standards
  • Training and development
  • Work based training