IfL raises the importance of teaching and learning

Tuesday 22 November 2011

Following the publication of Ofsted’s annual report for 2010/11, the Institute for Learning (IfL) believes that teaching and learning should be a limiting grade in inspections. More than 2,000 IfL members have so far responded to a survey that will inform the professional body’s response to Ofsted’s consultation on proposed changes to the Common Inspection Framework in 2012, and there is strong support for the suggestion that no provider should receive an overall ‘outstanding’ grade unless their teaching, learning and assessment has been graded ‘outstanding’.

IfL’s chief executive, Toni Fazaeli, said, “Although the sector has experienced uncertainty and instability in recent years, teachers and trainers across FE and skills consistently make an enormous contribution to local communities and the economy. With global competition intensifying, and economic conditions continuing to be very difficult, however, it is now more important than ever before that all young and adult students should benefit from the best possible teaching and learning. We agree with Ofsted that excellent teaching and learning are the keys to success, and it is disappointing that too little outstanding teaching was seen in colleges, adult and community learning providers and prisons inspected this year.

“As the professional body for teachers and trainers, IfL proposes a strong focus on raising standards in teaching and learning. Insights into the innovative practices and approaches adopted by highly effective providers whose teaching and learning have been rated outstanding are extremely valuable, and must be shared. We need inspections of the very best practice to gain robust insights into teaching that is leading edge, and to help energise teaching and engender creativity, for the benefit of learners across our diverse sector.

“IfL will also be looking at how we can work with staff development managers throughout the sector to help ensure that teachers and trainers benefit from continuing professional development (CPD) that is effective and makes a positive difference to their practice. Time is precious, so the emphasis needs to be on quality, not quantity, on effective time rather than busy time. Thousands of IfL members and leaders are already drawing on the ideas, advice and examples set out in our guide to Brilliant teaching and training in FE and skills, and we will build on that.”