Extend the 5.5% Pay Increase to Further Education Staff

In a landmark decision, Chancellor Rachel Reeves recently announced that the UK government has accepted the School Teachers’ Review Body’s (STRB) recommendation to grant a 5.5% pay rise for teachers. This decision, effective from September 1, is set to inject £1.2 billion in additional funding to schools, benefiting thousands of teachers across the country. For the average teacher, this pay increase translates to over £2,500 more in their annual salary—a significant boost in an era of rising living costs.

However, The Department for Education has confirmed that this much-needed pay rise will not be extended to college educators. Many people feel that this is a large oversight and has raised concerns around inequity in the education sector. The government's decision comes as part of a wider package of cost-cutting measures aimed at saving £3 billion from government budgets.

Many colleges have reported facing dwindling budgets, increased operational costs, and rising demand for their services. Without competitive pay, colleges may struggle to attract and retain skilled educators, directly impacting the quality of education provided.

Extending the 5.5% pay increase to further education staff is not merely a matter of fairness—it’s a strategic investment in the future of our education system. Here’s why:

1. Retention and Recruitment

Competitive pay is crucial for attracting and retaining talented educators. FE colleges compete with schools and private sector employers for skilled professionals. Without parity in pay, colleges risk losing their best staff to better-paying opportunities.

2. Quality of Education

Educators who feel valued and fairly compensated are more likely to be motivated, productive, and committed to their roles. Ensuring that college staff receive equitable pay will enhance the overall quality of education, benefiting students and the broader community.

3. Economic Impact

Investing in further education has long-term economic benefits. Colleges play a vital role in upskilling the workforce, reducing unemployment, and driving economic growth. By supporting college staff, we bolster these institutions' ability to fulfil their mission and contribute to the economy.

4. Morale and Well-being

Pay disparities can lead to dissatisfaction and low morale among college staff. Addressing this issue head-on demonstrates that the government values and respects the contributions of all educators, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.

We support the inclusion of FE educators being included in this pay rise, if you want to show your support, sign the petition below!

Petition · Extend the 5​.​5% Pay Increase To Further Education Staff - United Kingdom · Change.org