New programme to develop employer partnerships

Over £100,000 is to be invested with training providers to help boost partnerships with employers, thanks to a new programme from the Education and Training Foundation (ETF). The initiative is part of the ETF’s Teach Too programme, and is being delivered under contract by the Association of Colleges (AoC), in partnership with the Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP) and HOLEX. The essence of Teach Too is industry experts spending time teaching current practitioners to help ensure that off-the-job vocational education and training is as up to date as possible with current work practices. David Hughes, Chief Executive of the Association of Colleges (AoC), said: “This project will have a real impact on the training and education provided to students across the country. Not only will they be trained by industry experts, it will also ensure that they are adept in the latest practices so they are fully prepared for the world of work.” David Russell, CEO of the Education and Training Foundation, said: “Excellent vocational teaching and learning depends on the successful blend of occupational and pedagogical expertise such as Teach Too - building effective collaboration between industry and teaching professionals. The ETF is very pleased to be able to stimulate and support meaningful and sustainable arrangements across the sector through the Teach Too phase 3 programme.” Around 10 projects will run simultaneously across the country, with ideas to develop practice and enhance partnership working being shared with others. All post-16 training providers are invited to apply for funding to run their own projects, from March until September 2017. The invitation to tender will launch on Friday 27 January and further information is available online.