Impact Report 2025-26
The Education Training Foundation (ETF) launched its latest Impact Report in October 2026, showcasing how it has equipped the further education (FE) and skills workforce over the last year to meet the evolving needs of learners, employers and communities – and to play a vital role in delivering the UK Government’s mission-led agenda.
Covering activity in 2025–26, the report details ETF’s work towards driving professionalism, improving teaching and learning, championing inclusion and enabling sector change for a resilient and future-ready FE and skills system.
Key takeaways from the report
Improving Teaching and Learning
ETF has driven significant progress in teaching and learning by providing targeted professional development, supporting curriculum innovation, and fostering a culture of reflective practice.
Initiatives such as the T Level Professional Development programme, English, maths and ESOL training, and the Technical Teaching Fellowships have empowered thousands of practitioners to enhance their knowledge, build confidence, and adopt innovative pedagogical approaches.
Membership networks and events, such as the annual Teaching and Learning Conferences, further support knowledge sharing and continuous improvement, leading to consistently high satisfaction and impact across the sector.
Enabling Sector Change
ETF has acted as a catalyst for sector development, supporting leadership, research, and system-wide improvement.
Programmes like Apprenticeship Workforce Development, leadership and governance training, and practitioner research create the conditions for innovation and resilience across further education.
By facilitating collaboration, convening stakeholder voices, and advancing evidence-informed practice, ETF empowers providers and leaders to respond decisively to changing policy, workforce needs, technological change, and sustainability priorities. This collective approach strengthens the FE and skills sector’s capacity to adapt and shape the future.
Championing Inclusion
ETF has placed inclusion at the forefront of its mission, advancing equity through specialist leadership programmes, anti-racist initiatives, and targeted support for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The Centres for Excellence in SEND and a new professional status in SEND pedagogy have enabled providers to develop inclusive curricula, improve learner outcomes, and share best practice nationally.
Through its Inclusive Leadership Programme, ETF is supporting providers to strengthen representation in leadership and develop inclusive cultures where staff and learners can thrive.
Driving Professionalism
ETF has established and strengthened sector-wide standards of excellence, recognising achievements through Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS), Advanced Teacher Status (ATS), and specialist accreditations such as Education for Sustainable Development.
Professional Standards and self-assessment tools promote reflective development and help organisations create cultures of high-quality teaching, research, and leadership.
These efforts are supported by mentoring, career development opportunities, and dedicated partnerships that collectively raise the professionalism and confidence of the workforce.
Read more in the full Impact Report on the ETF website and discover how ETF is shaping the future of FE and skills.
Other reports
We’re proud of the impact we’ve achieved together with the FE and skills system. Take a look at our latest annual and impact reports, board papers, and AGM minutes to see the impact we’re making, for and with our sector, and what’s ahead.