A degree and teaching qualification are needed to become a further education lecturer. Further education is offered in the United Kingdom to people who wish to pursue training beyond basic qualifications, but do not want to attend college or university. It can include some academic as well as vocational education and the pursuit of hobbies. Like other education professionals, further educational lecturers also need to meet continuing education requirements to keep up with developments in their field if they want to retain certification.
This process starts with a degree in a subject of interest. Employers usually expect a candidate to become a further education lecturer to have a degree in the subject that will be taught. Someone providing chemistry education, for example, needs a chemistry degree to be able to provide adequate mentoring and education to students. With a degree, people can pursue postgraduate training in education to earn teaching qualifications.
It may be possible to start working as a further education lecturer with either extensive job experience, in the case of vocational education, or with an undergraduate degree, and to work toward a teaching certification at the same time. Certifications typically require the completion of classroom training as well as successfully passing examinations to demonstrate competency. Once people are fully qualified to teach, they need to work to maintain their qualifications. A set number of hours of continuing education can be used each year to meet these requirements.
After someone has become a further education lecturer, the job can include teaching courses, mentoring students, developing curricula, and working within the department. People with more senior positions can play a role in attracting and retaining students as well as developing the department to provide more offerings. Positions with increased responsibility can come with better pay and benefits, as well as the possibility to apply for similar positions at other institutions.
It may be helpful to join a professional organization after becoming a further education lecturer. These can provide professional contacts and connections that may be helpful for career development. They also offer seminars, lectures, trade magazines, and other resources to allow members to keep up with the field. Members can also have an opportunity to weigh in on topics like proposed changes to the credentialing process or national education policy. They may also be more employable, as prospective employers can consider such memberships to be an indicator of an interest in continuing excellence.
