Education unions, associations and representative bodies have joined forces today to call for teachers and education staff to be prioritised in phase two of the country’s vaccination programme.

@AoCDavidH and the Association of Colleges respond to Gavin Williamson's plans for 2021 exams, teacher assessed grades for GCSE's and A-Levels. David also highlights the challenge of providing students on licence to practice courses, particularly how to prove competency in their chosen field Commenting on today's statement from the Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson on the plan for students' grades now exams have been cancelled, Association of Colleges (AoC) Chief Executive David Hughes said: 

Public exams and vocational assessments scheduled to take place in January can still go ahead as planned, at the discretion of the School or College, @EducationGovUK have announced this evening (5 Jan). 

@AoC_info has released a new report impact of competition on the post-16 education system.  Association of Colleges has today released a report which was a study on sufficiency, efficiency, and effectiveness of Post-16 provision outlining the impact of competition on the post-16 education system. It argues that competition has had a negative effect on choice, quality and the delivery of specialist courses, and that collaboration and coordination through a placed-based approach would better meet the needs of students and employers.  Addressing insufficiency, inefficiency, inequity, and poor quality is crucial to achieving a post – 16 education and skills system that works for those who need it. Getting the right skilled people into emerging economies and creating strong, well-resourced colleges with clear missions will support local and regional demand and needs as the country rebuilds.  The report sets out a set of recommendations for reform that will be vital to the future success of the people, places and businesses colleges serve:

Dr Shaid Mahmood appointed as new @AoC _info Chair  After an open and competitive selection process, Association of Colleges is pleased to announce that Dr Shaid Mahmood is the new AoC Chair. Having been ratified by AoC Board, Shaid begins the role with immediate effect, and will be looking to meet with members as soon as possible.