Toni Fazaeli is retiring as chief executive of the Institute for Learning after six years in charge, it has been announced.

During her tenure, Ms Fazaeli (pictured) helped the professional body win the battle to have qualified FE teachers recognised in law as equal to qualified teachers and able to teach in schools.

Sue Crowley, elected chair of IfL’s non-executive board, paid tribute to her work. “Toni has fought tirelessly for teachers and trainers across a very diverse sector to be recognised as professionals,” she said.

“Her strong belief that all learners are entitled to have trained and qualified teachers and trainers has shone a spotlight on the issue of initial teacher qualifications and the need for a clear national policy.”

Ms Fazaeli is also chair of governors at an FE college and a commissioner on the Skills Commission.

Ms Fazaeli said leading IfL had been a “privilege”. “At a time of great change in our sector, IfL has made considerable strides in raising the profile and status of the teaching profession across the diversity of the sector, supporting members to achieve excellence in their professional practice, and giving teachers and trainers a voice to influence policymaking,” she said.

“With many thousands of teachers and trainers choosing to engage with IfL and one another, as fellow professionals, IfL will continue to make a difference for the profession, and for the benefit of learners. It is a good time for me to move on as we have reviewed and built up excellent services and engagement with our members.”

Dr Jean Kelly, IfL’s current director of professional development, will take over executive leadership of the professional body after Easter.