Teacher Workforce Statement by the Education Secretary
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has announced targeted measures to support recruitment and retention in Further Education (FE) colleges, reinforcing the government’s commitment to high-quality teaching and skills development.
Key Points for FE Sector:
Targeted Retention Payments:
- Nearly 6,000 claims have been approved for the Targeted Retention Incentive (TRI) Payment in high-priority subject areas, including construction, engineering, and maths. This scheme rewards experienced teachers in key disciplines to reduce attrition and retain expertise.
Financial Support for Colleges:
- An additional £160 million will be made available to colleges and 16 to 19 providers in the 2025–26 financial year. This funding is intended to support staff recruitment, retention, and pay pressures, helping providers remain competitive in a challenging labour market.
Workforce Strategy Commitment:
- These initiatives form part of the government’s broader pledge to recruit an additional 6,500 expert teachers across secondary schools, special schools, and colleges during this Parliament. For FE, this reflects ongoing recognition of the sector’s pivotal role in delivering technical education and upskilling the workforce.