The college (FE) sector
Sixth-form colleges
Sixth-form colleges offer those over 16 years old a wide range of qualification opportunities post-GCSEs with academic and vocational programmes.
Students are not only able to study conventional AS and A levels with a view to entering higher education, but can also work towards other nationally recognised diplomas such as BTEC, HND, NVQ and foundation diplomas in vocational and academic subject areas.
Further education (FE) colleges
Further education colleges offer courses to all post-school adults who sign on for further education of any kind, excluding degree courses. Their curricula are all embracing and may include every level of learning from basic literacy and numeracy skills to academic and vocational qualifications.
FE colleges often offer part-time courses in a range of activities and pursuits, from flower arranging and photography, to cookery and foreign languages.
Specialist colleges
Specialist colleges offer diploma courses, or the equivalent, in dedicated subject fields such as catering, agriculture, horticulture, nursing or other vocational skills.
Who is eligible in the college (FE) sector?
Any member of part-time or full-time staff who works in an LSC-funded college, or on an LSC-funded programme, who makes a real difference within the college community is eligible for nomination.
You may, of course, nominate tutors or lecturers, but they make up only a tiny percentage of the college staff. Other potential QIA STARs whose roles are vital to the success of all colleges include librarians, reception staff, crèche workers, laboratory technicians and assistants, caretakers and cleaners, as well as people working in finance and human resources.
Whether they are concerned with the upkeep of the building, the managing of timetables or the welfare of learners and/or other members of staff, all of these people can be nominated in recognition of their valuable contribution to college life.