The Department for Education has awarded MEI a new grant to build on its successful national professional development programme for mathematics teachers in Further Education (FE). This investment will enable MEI to extend and enhance its work with colleges to improve maths outcomes for learners aged 16–19, up to Level 2.

MEI’s previous programme reached more than 1200 FE teachers across over 100 colleges and received overwhelmingly positive feedback. Colleges consistently reported improved teacher confidence, strengthened practice, and greater sense of shared purpose. The new and refreshed programme will retain the most valued components while introducing new opportunities for connection, development, and sector-wide learning.

The programme will be structured around six interlinked elements:

New Elements

• College Maths Partnership – Sustained consultancy providing bespoke, evidence-informed support for selected colleges to strengthen maths teaching and raise learner outcomes.
• National Online FE CPD Events – Themed online events offering timely input and cross-college professional dialogue and reflection.
• FE Maths Matters Newsletter – A regular publication showcasing practitioner insight, professional learning and successful practice from across the sector.

Continuing Elements

• FE CPD Menu – An improved flexible CPD offer allowing providers to choose tailored, practical sessions that meet local needs and priorities.
• Extended Courses – Structured online courses supporting deep professional learning for teachers and leaders, combining on-demand modules with live tutorials.
• MEI Conference FE Strand – Sector representation to share and develop effective practice and elevate the voice of FE maths practitioners at a national level.

MEI’s highly respected FE team, headed by Emma Bell, will continue to deliver the programme. The team is known across the sector for its credibility and practical expertise shaped by considerable experience of FE teaching and change improvement.

Charlie Stripp, MEI’s Chief Executive said:

I am pleased that MEI can continue to make a positive difference to maths teaching and outcomes in FE settings through its work on the programme. Getting maths teaching right in this context can be complex and challenging. It is a privilege to support the professional learning of FE teachers to do so.

Emma Bell, MEI’s Strategic Lead for the Further Education CPD Programme said:

I am proud that this programme is trusted by the sector: it is built on sustained relationships, credibility and a clear understanding of FE maths. I’m excited that we’re able to offer more opportunities and flexibility, and more ways to support teachers that truly make a difference.

Information about the programme and how to apply will be available on the MEI website in due course. To receive updates on this work, and to receive notification of opportunities relevant to you, make sure you register to stay informed.