The agency set up to provide staff development for colleges this week launched a bid to run teacher training in further education.
The Further Education Development Agency will apply to become the lead body for lecturer training.
The agency submitted its application as it approved moves to develop a set of teaching standards for colleges. Work on the project will start in September.
Meanwhile, former chief inspector of colleges, Dr Terry Melia, has been appointed to the top job at FEDA.
Dr Melia, who takes over from current chairman Ken Young, will be paid for the job, although a salary has yet to be fixed.
Education and Employment Secretary David Blunkett said: “I am confident that under Terry Melia’s leadership FEDA will play a continuing and increasing role in support of FE colleges, identifying and promoting best practice in teaching, learning and management across the sector and beyond.”
