What is Further Education (FE)?
Further Education (FE) includes any study after secondary education (GCSEs) that is not part of an undergraduate or graduate degree. This vibrant sector offers technical training, A-levels, and industry skills to students aged 16 and over. FE sits between compulsory schooling and Higher Education, and is provided mainly by Further Education colleges, sixth forms, and specialist training providers – as well as community centres, adult learning institutions, and prisons. For industry professionals, FE offers a unique opportunity to teach real-world skills to adults and young people without the constraints of the national curriculum found in schools.
How FE differs from Compulsory and Higher Education
Primary and Secondary Education
Education is mandatory for all children in the UK. From ages five to 16 it is generally delivered in primary and secondary schools with a focus on the core curriculum and national standards.
- Legal Requirement: Attendance is legally mandatory for children aged between five and 16.
- Curriculum: A broad foundation in core subjects (English, maths, science), aiming for basic literacy and numeracy.
- Qualifications: Culminates in GCSEs or equivalents.
- Goal: To provide a standardised education base for every child.
Further Education (FE)
FE typically caters to learners aged 16 and over, including young people studying A Level subjects or specialising in a trade, and adult learners who return to FE for training and upskilling. It is below degree level.
- Flexibility: Further Education ranges from basic skills (Level 2) to advanced vocational qualifications (Level 5), including T Levels, BTECs, and apprenticeships.
- Setting: Delivered in FE colleges, sixth forms, specialist training centres, community centres, adult learning institutions, and prisons.
- Goal: FE prepares learners for university or direct entry into the workforce through technical, career-oriented skills.
Higher Education (HE)
Higher Education is non-compulsory and typically begins at age 18 for individuals who meet specific academic criteria. It is distinct from FE, as it focuses on advanced academic research. Higher Education is generally delivered at universities, and is usually degree focused.
- Qualifications: Awards Level 4 to Level 8 qualifications, such as Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate degrees.
- Providers: Predominantly offered by universities, though some FE colleges offer specific HE courses.
- Funding: Unlike the fully funded nature of compulsory education, HE is primarily funded through student loans and private funding.
- Goal: To develop specialised knowledge leading to professional or managerial roles.
Summary: Understanding the key differences
To fully understand where Further Education fits, it’s helpful to consider the main distinctions, including:
- Mandatory Status: Primary and secondary education (from five to 16) is required by law. Both Further Education and Higher Education are optional choices - though young people must continue in some form of education until they are 18.
- Age: School education ends at 16, while Further Education is for people aged 16 and over, and Higher Education is typically 18 and over.
- Focus: Primary and secondary schools provide a broad curriculum. FE focuses on a wider range of subjects than schools, including vocational and technical education. Higher Education has a focus on advanced academic study at degree level.
- Providers: FE is taught in diverse settings like colleges and work-based training centres, unlike the fixed school or university environments with primary and secondary schools and Higher Education.
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Why choose a career in Further Education?
Teaching in Further Education offers a unique opportunity. The relationship you have with your students is completely different from a secondary school setting, for example. In FE teaching, you’re treating students as adults who have chosen to be there to further their careers and learn specialist skills.
You don’t always need a degree to start FE teaching, either. Your real-world industry experience is your most valuable asset. Whether you’re a mechanic, nurse, engineer, digital specialist or counsellor, you can pass on practical skills to the next generation.
The teaching environment is often more flexible than schools too. You won’t be standing at the front of a classroom all day, with teaching setups designed for students to learn practical skills including labs, kitchens and simulated work environments. You’ll also likely find plenty of opportunities for part-time or sessional work, allowing you to maintain your current career while teaching.
Qualifications and training to teach in FE
You don't always need a prior teaching qualification to start your career in FE.
Many colleges offer on-the-job training and qualifications, including a Level 5 Diploma in Teaching or a Certificate in Education, allowing you to earn while you learn – you’ll often find fully funded training courses. If you have industry expertise and a real-world industry background, you’re already halfway there.
To explore specific requirements and available courses, discover our guide on becoming an FE teacher.