With big questions hanging over the future direction of FE and the professionalisation of its workforce, here is the FE Focus list of just a few names to watch in 2008.
1. BORIS JOHNSON
The Conservative contender for mayor will be drawn into the debate on FE as we challenge him about what his priorities will be if he finds himself in Mr Livingstone’s shoes.
2. IOAN MORGAN
Founding chairman of the 157 Group of large, high-performing FE institutions, he has stood down from the post but is likely to remain influential. He has been appointed to the UK Commission for Employment and Skills as the only FE representative.
3. DAVID HUNTER
As chief executive of Lifelong Learning UK, Mr Hunter will be a key figure in mapping the direction of training and workforce development in FE and other parts of the post-16 education and training sector.
4. SUE CROWLEY
Chair of the Institute for Learning, one of her biggest challenges will be to convince lecturers that the institute is an organisation that truly represents its members, as it sets about raising standards in the profession.
5. KEN LIVINGSTONE
FE will become a major political issue in London as the Mayor, who shares responsibility for this area with the Learning and Skills Council, prepares to do battle in the forthcoming election.
6. BARRY LOVEJOY
As head of further education at the University and College Union, Mr Lovejoy will be hoping for more progress on the long-running campaign to reduce the 10 per cent pay gap between lecturers and school teachers. As professional qualifications are imposed on lecturers, some believe equal pay could follow.
