Market Engagement Large Scale Research for Post-16 English and maths CPD

Prior Information Notice (PIN) To note: This PIN does not signify the commencement of any competitive process and does not constitute any commitment by the Department for Education (DfE). If DfE decides to commence any competitive process(es) as contemplated by this notice, a separate notice(s) will be published at the relevant time. DfE has previously published its commitments to Further Education (FE) providers in the Skills for Jobs: Lifelong Learning for Opportunity and Growth White Paper. The paper identifies a need to ensure all FE providers are professionally managed, governed and have the best quality teachers and lecturers. In doing so, we will ensure that post-16 further education students have access to world-class technical and vocational education, providing the skills both individuals and employers need for the future economy. Purpose of this notice The purpose of this PIN is to inform the market that DfE is considering how to evaluate the delivery of activities that support teachers in Further Education providers who teach learners who are continuing to work towards Level 2 in English and maths. Achieving a level 2 qualification in both maths and English, through GCSE or Functional Skills Qualifications (FSQs), helps students to progress to further study, training and skilled employment. The maths and English Condition of Funding (‘resit’ policy) ensures that all 16 to 19-year-olds have the best chance of achieving this standard and get the necessary support to do so.

DfE is committed to this policy and therefore, to supporting teachers of learners continuing to work towards their Level 2 in English and maths. It is important that teachers in Further Education providers have access to the best development which focuses on the skills needed to help resit learners achieve their potential. DfE want to understand the needs of FE providers and identify best practice to inform future policy delivery and aims to do this through research. Early in the summer DfE intends to invite bids for grant funding from organisations with policies, objectives and activities that are aligned to those of DfE, to better achieve the desired outcomes for FE providers in England. Organisations that are currently, or have an interest in, undertaking robust, large-scale research (including Randomised Control Trials) will be invited to bid to contribute to the evidence base of what works in improving outcomes for resit learners in the classroom and in developing continuous professional development interventions for teachers in Further Education providers. How to engage DfE is holding an introductory market engagement webinar via Microsoft Teams at 1pm on Tuesday 26 April 2022 which will run for approximately 45 minutes. If any organisation is interested in a short 1-2-1, please register your interest via Jaggaer.