51福利571

51福利/571听听 March 2014听听

University and College Union

Carlow Street, London NW1 7LH, Tel. 020 7756 2500, www.ucu.org.uk

To听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Branch and local association secretaries

Topic听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Unconfirmed minutes of the Further Education Sector Conference, 29 May 2013

Action听听听听听听听听听听听 For information; for adoption at FE sector conference 2014

Summary 听听听听 FE sector conference minutes 2013听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听

Contact听听听听听听听听听 Michael MacNeil, National Head of Bargaining and Negotiations

Dear Colleague

Meeting of the Further Education Sector Conference

Brighton Centre, 29 May 2013

Unconfirmed minutes

1. Welcome

1.1. John McCormack introduced himself as Chair of the Further Education Sector Conference and those on the platform; vice president elect and vice-chairs Sean Vernell and Jenny Prideaux and Barry Lovejoy National Head of FE and staff on the platform. He welcomed delegates and new delegated to the FE Sector Conference 2013 and wished all an enjoyable and constructive day.

1.2. The Chair detailed the emergency exits and fire safety arrangements.

2. 听Appointment of tellers

2.1. The Chair asked delegates to approve the appointment of Regional Officials and Regional Support Officials as tellers for the Conference. This was AGREED.

3. 听Adoption of the minutes of FE Sector Conference 8^th June 2012.

3.1听听 The Chair asked Conference to adopt the minutes of the FE Sector Conference 8th June 2012 as a correct record. This was AGREED.

4. 听Report from Conference Business Committee (CBC)

4.1. Angie McConnell, Vice Chair of CBC moved the CBC report. She reported that there was no change to the order of motions. She reminded Conference that emergency motions must have the signature of 10 delegates and that any circulation of material at Conference must be agreed by the Chair. She reminded delegates that nomination forms for nationals negotiators in England must be submitted to Congress staff by today. If Conference finishes early, college branches could report on the current situation in their college and could submit a note to Barry Lovejoy for this.

4.2. The Chair asked Conference to endorse the CBC report. This was AGREED.

5. Report from National Head of FE

5.1. Barry Lovejoy welcomed delegates to Conference and made the following report:

鈥淵et again we have a fine turn out of activists, branch officers and reps - many here for the first time. This reflects the fact that the union remains an active campaigning union despite the massive attacks and challenges we face in our sectors. FE, prisons and adult education in England Wales and Northern Ireland.

This year marks the 20 year anniversary of incorporation of FE in England. The AoC are holding a reception soon which is a celebration of Incorporation - Anyone think it merits much celebration? Do not worry I do not intend to run the good old days or all our yesterdays but it's worth reflecting on what it has meant and continues to mean. Initiated by the Tories, heralded by senior staff (who gained significantly in salaries and power) and disgracefully continued with gusto by New Labour, the sector, pulled out of local authority control - has been a test bed for many other areas of the public sector - a strategy based on the replacement of the principle of an accountable planned public service with a competitive, unaccountable market driven free for all. I see no evidence that it improves efficiency - on the contrary - it has involved sheer wastage of time and resources through the duplication of personnel, finance and marketing activities. Collaboration and mergers emerge more as survival packages in the roller coaster funding regimes - not rationally planned exercises to meet local demands but desperate rescue plans that have often involved much pain and anguish for all concerned. It is my sincere belief that improvements to the learners experience that have been achieved has been despite incorporation - a result more of the commitment of staff who continue to perform daily miracles against the odds. And why do I stress this? - because we now face another new stage, super incorporation - more freedoms for colleges to change instruments of government, merge or set up new independent companies with the minimum of public accountability or transparency. This again is welcomed by senior management and their lobby groups - AoC and 157. There is no doubt perhaps that such changes make it much easier to duck and dive for survival in the ever shrinking and changing funding regime - but at what long term cost? I don't know about you but it seems to me that in embracing this approach in the panic to survive we are witnessing a potential race to the bottom. - Who can do the business cheapest? And let us say clearly one thing loud and clear -. Whether it is dressed up in the language of shared services and greater institutional freedom or pseudo liberal language from those in organisations called bizarre animal names - Private equity and For profit activity have no place in FE or any other public service! Of course a key feature of incorporation and its new manifestations is to create the environment for government and employers to weaken bargaining arrangements and worsen pay and conditions for staff. There is no doubt that the last 20 years has seen an erosion of pay and conditions of service for FE staff - it鈥檚 not necessary to take our word for it - read the Lingfield Report - and our stress surveys continue to show the human impact of the situation. And the response from our employers? Under pressure from Oftsed-led by Gove's attack dog Willshaw we see that very enlightened H.R the beatings continue until morale and achievement improves. So we see employers increasingly rushing to capability procedures rather than development and support. Grade 3 or 4 - the punishment block for you! A simplistic misguided approach with potentially appalling consequences for staff health and morale and inevitably having a long term adverse affect on quality.

Colleagues we all know here what it's like to work in our sectors and the immense challenges we face. It's important over the next couple of days that we take the opportunity to highlight the reality. But more importantly I think you have travelled here not to moan about our plight but to share experiences and discuss how this union can organise to continue to make a difference in the face of attacks. I stress the word continue to make a difference because I am in no doubt that if we had not done so over the last 20 years - we would be in no position to be meeting today let alone preparing ourselves for the battles ahead. So some examples: Despite relentless attempts locally and nationally to marginalise us and the constant need to defend union negotiated contracts and agreements they continue in the vast number of colleges and institutions. We retain a common contract across Northern Ireland and I am confident that we are within a hair breadth of achieving this in Wales. It鈥檚 been a long struggle and there is a still the possibility here of industrial action but let鈥檚 congratulate the region on progress and in particular the tenacious work of the regional official Margaret Phelan. And I am sure that delegates in prison education will recognise that against the odds 51福利 continues to improve its organisation and influence in this fragmented and semi privatised sector. This is down to hard working reps but I would also like to high light the tremendous work carried out by the national official Christiane Ohsan - please show your appreciation for her long standing work in this sector and indeed adult and community education.

5.2. Continuing with important achievements Let's not forget that the two year pay rise we achieved in 2003 with the new pay scales for England has been a very important gain for thousands of lecturers. We are of course now engaged in defending this gain but god knows what pay would have been if we had not achieved these benchmarks. The major activity of our union focuses at the day to day local level both collective and individual and yes, in the vast majority of cases, we remain effective and make a difference. Major defeats can be counted on one hand and year after year month after month sees the union achieve satisfactory resolutions to disputes and individual casework.

5.3. There are far too many instances to quote and I do not wish to ignore any but for example: Every dispute we have so far pursued on lesson observation has achieved agreement. Despite the relentless attack on jobs - in most cases we have avoided compulsory redundancies. And where conditions have been attacked we have prevented the worst excesses. 20 years of Incorporation and the current slashing of funds for is nothing to celebrate but the work of our reps and activists is - let's do that! And let's also show your appreciation for the hard working regional staff.

5.4. I would also like you to show your appreciation to Dan Taubman - who has done tremendous work for this union over the last 19 years. Providing invaluable information and policy development for our work. Dan is retiring later this year.

5.5. And why should we highlight our achievements and activity? Well very simply to attract and retain members. You all know that this is by far the biggest challenge that we face today in order to maintain our organisation. People join unions not to protest at how bad things are (although do not get me wrong protest is essential) but if they think it will make a difference. We do make a difference so let's not be shy about it - shout about it from the roof tops. I agree with people who say that the union must be active to succeed and recruit members. We are an active union and we must stay one. While activity is not restricted to industrial action - it is worth noting that we took more industrial action from May last year to the end of last month than we did in the previous same 12 months period. So we are hardly a passive organisation.

5.6. We have very significant threats and challenges to face in the coming year. Already we are seeing yet a further wave of attacks on jobs pay and working conditions - it's relentless but this union must and will continue to stand firm. Local ballots for industrial action are being launched at Kirklees. Grimsby - let鈥檚 show them support and wish good luck. And we are awaiting a ballot result from Chesterfield College - which I am sure will give a big yes vote for strike action over redundancies.

In this environment our push on tackling excessive workloads becomes essential. Targets have been selected in all regions to establish good practice. We have been making steady progress on getting England employers to commit to using the national agreement. There is a long way to go but we have made a respectable start ensuring that it's an issue on the bargaining agenda in increasing numbers of colleges and a hook to mount campaigns in the future.

5.7. Finally conference I must of course turn to the sorry state of the current pay negotiations in England. Last year I was quoted in the press as being gobsmacked at employers antics - this year to honest I was speechless but very worried. Indeed as to the possible consequences for future national bargaining on pay. Let鈥檚 be clear the employers knew from the very start of talks that the strings that they are proposing were totally unacceptable to the trade unions and are unnecessary anyway. National agreements should be about establishing good practice and pay increases not giving green lights or rubber stamping to performance based pay or freezing of scales. The AoC say that they wish to continue to make national pay recommendations but in taking their ball home in a fit of pique they risk sleepwalking into the end of national bargaining. It may be worse a deliberate sabotage. But whichever it is - employers think again - if you think ending national bargaining is an easy option then beware. Yes we want and will fight for it but be clear - this union will organise, fight and bargain for its members wherever the employers are organised. Chair and Conference I look forward to the debate. I am sure there will unanimity around most of the important issues. I will have no more say in the debates that follow but I will say that whilst it is important and necessary to confirm and clarify out policies - the vital task comes after. We must recruit convince and mobilise our members. Thank you鈥�

5.8. There followed a question and answer session where the need to publicise the issues around incorporation and to link this with the academisation of schools was raised. Barry Lovejoy reported that 51福利 is engaged with the NUT and NASUWT via the TUC on this and academies and this campaign is due to be launched in the autumn and that a lot of work is being done on this. Dan Taubman reported that educational issues were fundamental in this campaign. D

5.9. Delegates raised the issue of Dan Taubman鈥檚 retirement and appreciation for all the valuable work that he had done. The Chair thanked Dan Taubman for all his fantastic work and it was clear that he is much appreciated and will be sorely missed. Dan will be reporting on the FE guild following the debate of motions.

5.10. The Chair thanked Barry Lovejoy for his report.

6. Consideration of Motions.

6.1. Motion FE1 on Pay听 was moved by听 Fiona Bailey from Westminster Kingsway College, and also supported the amendment and seconded by Richard McEwan from Tower Hamlets College as follows:

Conference notes:

1. Over the last 4 years the value of FE lecturers pay has been cut by 13.7% and the gap between our pay and that of school teachers is increasing once again

2. Funding cuts are resulting in unprecedented job losses; workloads are increasing; our professionalism is under attack from hostile observation and inspection regime; pensions are being undermined; the demands on FE are rising as young people and workers feel the effects of the austerity policies

3. College employers are making a historic bid to drive down the value of our pay and erode our terms and conditions of service.

Conference believes 51福利 members are willing to fight to defend our pay, conditions and post 16 education.

Conference resolves to ballot for national strike action in the event of an unsatisfactory pay offer from employers at the first negotiating meeting on 24 April.

6.1.1 Amendment FE1A.1 was moved by Jenny Prideaux on behalf of the FEC and seconded formally as follows:

In the final sentence, delete 'from employers at the first negotiating meeting on 24 April' and add a full stop after 'offer'.

Add new sentence:

'This ballot will take place as near as possible to the beginning of October'.

6.1.2听 There being none against Amendment FE1A.1 was voted on and CARRIED.

6.1.3听 Motion FE1 as amended was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Conference notes:

1. Over the last 4 years the value of FE lecturers pay has been cut by 13.7% and the gap between our pay and that of school teachers is increasing once again

3. College employers are making a historic bid to drive down the value of our pay and erode our terms and conditions of service.

Conference believes 51福利 members are willing to fight to defend our pay, conditions and post 16 education.

Conference resolves to ballot for national strike action in the event of an unsatisfactory pay offer. This ballot will take place as near as possible to the beginning of October.

6.2. Motion FE2 on Pay was moved by Sean Vernell on behalf of the FEC and seconded formally as follows:

Conference notes:

1. Since August 2009 prices have risen 15.5% (RPI Feb13)

2. Average pay for FE lecturers has gone up just .9% in that time

3. This is a real pay cut of 14.6%

4. Lecturers on point 4 of the pay scale are 拢4290 worse off and on point 8 it is a real cut of 拢5125

5. FE lecturers continue to be paid on average 5.7% less than school teachers

Conference further notes the Lingfield report, Professionalism in Further Education and its findings:

"the average salaries of FE staff, relative to their counterparts in schools and universities, appear to have declined substantially over time, and particularly sharply so in the last decade."

And that this is "undesirable from the point of view of staff retention in FE"

Conference supports this year's joint union claim of a 5% increase and continued campaigning in support of improved pay in FE.

6.2.1听 There being none against motion FE2 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:听

Conference notes:

1. Since August 2009 prices have risen 15.5% (RPI Feb13)

2. Average pay for FE lecturers has gone up just .9% in that time

3. This is a real pay cut of 14.6%

4. Lecturers on point 4 of the pay scale are 拢4290 worse off and on point 8 it is a real cut of 拢5125.

5. FE lecturers continue to be paid on average 5.7% less than school teachers

Conference further notes the Lingfield report, Professionalism in Further Education and its findings:

"the average salaries of FE staff, relative to their counterparts in schools and universities, appear to have declined substantially over time, and particularly sharply so in the last decade."

And that this is "undesirable from the point of view of staff retention in FE"

Conference supports this year's joint union claim of a 5% increase and continued campaigning in support of improved pay in FE.

6.3. Motion FE3 on the Pay offer was moved by Margot Hill from Croydon College and it was noted that the pay offer has now been withdrawn and seconded by David Armstrong from Barnet College with contributions from James Eaden from Chesterfield College and Brian O鈥橲ullivan from Bournville听 College as follows:

Congress notes the derisory pay offer made by the AOC on 24 April 2013. Congress rejects the offer as wholly inadequate. Congress is concerned at the suggestion that any offer is conditional upon 'a willingness to engage in discussions regarding local approaches to incremental pay progression.' Congress resolves that incremental pay progression should be subject to national agreement.

6.3.1 There being none against motion FE3 on the Pay offer was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

6.4. Motion FE4 Pay and Conditions was moved formally on behalf of Southern regional FE committee and seconded formally as follows:

FESC is gravely concerned that, despite a shocking reduction in real terms pay in recent years, combined with widespread deterioration in conditions of employment, no national industrial action has taken place to address these trends.

FESC believes that it is vital that this union actively protects the pay and conditions of members and hence the quality of educational provision, as the fundamental purpose of the union.

Therefore FESC instructs FEC to:

1. actively campaign for a pay catch-up

2. find more effective ways in which our industrial organisation can resist government policy on privatisation and marketisation of FE, which is driving down conditions of service.

6.4.1 There being none against Motion FE 4 Pay and Conditions was CARRIED as follows:

FESC believes that it is vital that this union actively protects the pay and conditions of members and hence the quality of educational provision, as the fundamental purpose of the union.

Therefore FESC instructs FEC to:

1. actively campaign for a pay catch-up

2. find more effective ways in which our industrial organisation can resist government policy on privatisation and marketisation of FE, which is driving down conditions of service.

6.5. Motion FE5 on FE Sector Pay Cuts was moved by David Branson from Middlesbrough College and seconded by Kath Hepburn from Sunderland College with contributions from Liam Carr from Newcastle College, John Murphy from Blackburn College and Lee Short from Barnsley College as follows:

FE Sector Conference acknowledges that in this time of austerity, college management are under great financial pressure. However, we note that some colleges in the region have threatened pay cuts of up to a third for lecturing staff, even though the college is making a profit. We believe that this is both unwarranted and unethical and shows that some colleges do not value the contribution of their staff. Conference calls on FEC to mount a campaign against such activities on both a national and a regional basis.

6.5.1 There being none against motion FE5 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

6.6 Motion FE6 on Sick Pay was moved by Roy Bentley from Oxford and Cherwell Valley College and seconded formally as follows:

Conference notes the decision of the AoC to give notice of withdrawal from the national agreement on sick pay. This signals a likely attempt to reduce sick pay entitlement by individual colleges. Already examples can be seen in attempts to reduce entitlement to full pay for staff on phased return to work with staff just being offered reduced pay based on hours. Lecturing staff already feel under huge pressure to come to work when they are unwell. Reduction of sick pay will compound the problem. Use of crude measures, such as the Bradford index, to judge absence rates and then threaten capability procedures are adding to stress levels. Conference calls upon FEC nationally and FE branches to resist reductions in sick pay entitlements.

6.6.1 There being none against Motion FE6 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

6.7 Motion FE7 On Linked employment policies was moved by Roy Bentley from Oxford and Cherwell Valley College and seconded by Abelardo Clarians-Piga from Southern regional committee with contributions from Gilliam Garten from Bournemouth and Poole College as follows: 听

Sector Conference deplores the increasing tendency for colleges to seek to link together employment policies, eg. policies on sick pay, attendance management and appraisal are being linked to capability. This increasing link means appraisal and other staff processes can be used to punish staff by requiring attendance at training sessions. This will inhibit open discussion of professional development and personal needs as staff fear the consequences of declaring support needs. 51福利 FE sector and branches need to resist such moves and insist that policies are separate and discrete and that appropriate policies are used in appropriate contexts.

6.7.1 There being none against motion FE7 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

6.8 Motion FE8 on Ensuring Equality for Disabled Workers was moved by Pat Roche on behalf of the Disabled Members Standing Committee and seconded by Maire Daley from Liverpool Community College as follows:

A new national equality agreement, circulated to FE colleges, has been signed by 51福利, sister unions and the AoC. The agreement has been prioritised by the Further Education Committee (FEC) and its main aims are of creating an inclusive environment fee from discrimination. The document provides detailed guidance with regard to supporting disabled members at work including the new duties on employers such as not asking questions about disability and health prior to appointment unless it supports the interview process and also encourages colleges to have disability leave agreements.

Branches are urged to utilise 51福利 guidance and advice on the website; prioritise promoting the model agreement with employers; persuade the employer to adopt it; and agree implementation and review. In addition Conference calls on FEC to support branches and, critically, monitor progress and report on implementation to the FEC.

6.8.1 There being none against motion FE8 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

6.9 Motion FE9 on Challenging Islamophobia was moved by Jim Thakoordin听 on behalf of the Black Members Standing Committee and seconded by Richard Ewan from Tower Hamlets College with contributions from Rob Behan from Lambeth College and Margot Hill from Croydon College as follows:

The coalition government has re-written the Prevent agenda, as part of the anti-terrorism policy formulated by the Labour government in order to tackle 'extremism'. What lies at the heart of this policy in FE is monitoring our Muslim students to determine whether they are inclined towards 'extremist' views and not behaving 'normally'. The Prevent agenda could potentially lead to our members spying on our learners, promoting discriminatory practice towards Muslim learners.

Conference believes that the Prevent agenda is discriminatory towards Muslims and legitimises Islamophobia, encouraging racist and fascist organisations such as the English Defence League and British National Party

Conference resolves to:

write to FE branches and collate information on whether their institutions are implementing the Prevent agenda

actively campaign in co-operation with the BMSC against the use of the racist and divisive Prevent agenda at FE colleges and for its repeal.

6.9.1 There being none against motion FE9 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Conference resolves to:

write to FE branches and collate information on whether their institutions are implementing the Prevent agenda

actively campaign in co-operation with the BMSC against the use of the racist and divisive Prevent agenda at FE colleges and for its repeal.

6.10 Motion FE10 Advancing sexual orientation and gender identity equality in further education was moved by Laura Miles on behalf of the听 LGBT members standing committee and seconded by David James Bass from South Leicester College with contribution from John Murphy from Blackburn College and Indro Sen from the College of North West London as follows:

Conference notes and supports the work of 51福利, other unions, sector agencies, and the Forum in advancing sexual orientation and gender identity equality in FE. Conference notes that as savage government cuts affect the FE sector some of the national agencies that have led in making equality advances have met with closure. At the moment it is unclear how, or whether, there will be any lead for equality nationally within a new structure. Conference calls on the FEC to:

Lobby for clear commitment to the advancement of equality, including LGBT, within the new structure for FE nationally

Promote LGBT history month and the forthcoming LGBT history resources through mailings and briefings.

Through support and training for local reps organise locally for full implementation of the AoC and Unions equality agreement.

6.10.1 There being none against motion FE10 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Lobby for clear commitment to the advancement of equality, including LGBT, within the new structure for FE nationally

Promote LGBT history month and the forthcoming LGBT history resources through mailings and briefings.

Through support and training for local reps organise locally for full implementation of the AoC and Unions equality agreement.

6.11 Motion FE 11 Recruitment and organisation of casualised staff in further education was moved by Mahmoona Shah on behalf of the anti 鈥揷asualisation committee and seconded formally as follows:

Conference notes the alarming percentage of casualised staff working in the Further Education & Skills sector - 60% according to 2012 SIR data.

Conference also notes the importance of identifying and recruiting this increasing proportion of casualised staff as a necessary survival strategy for the Union.

The conference calls on FEC to:

prepare a statement encouraging branches to explore new and innovative ways of identifying and engaging casualised members

promote the recruitment and organisation of casualised members through a range of innovative and democratic communication channels (including electronic communication and social media) in order to maximise voice and agency.

encourage branches to better represent the needs of casualised members in consultation and decision making structures.

prepare a statement encouraging branches to promote the organising and training activities for casualised members.

6.11.1听 Amendment FE 11A.1 was moved by Jim Thakoordin on behalf of the Black Members standing Committee and seconded with contributions from Regine Pilling from Westminster Kingsway College, Rhiannon Lockley from Halesowen College and Rose Veitch from Hackney Community College as follows:

Add at end of 4

听to monitor and report on the number of casualised staff in FE in relation to gender, race, LGTB and disability and grades.

6.11.2 Amendment FE11A.1 was voted on and CARRIED.

6.11.3 Amendment FE 11A.2 听was moved by Jim Thakoordin on behalf of the Disabled Members standing Committee and seconded with contributions from Graham Mawdsley from Manchester College Prison branch and Indro Sen from the College of North West London as follows:

Insert at end of first paragraph 'A significant number of casualised staff are disabled.'

Add new point 5 'ensure that any recruitment, representation and organising statement includes actions to involve disabled staff'.

6.11.4 Amendment FE11A.2 was voted on and CARRIED.

6.11.5 There being none against Motion FE11 as amended on Recruitment and organisation of casualised staff in further education was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Conference notes the alarming percentage of casualised staff working in the Further Education & Skills sector - 60% according to 2012 SIR data. A significant number of casualised staff are disabled.

Conference also notes the importance of identifying and recruiting this increasing proportion of casualised staff as a necessary survival strategy for the Union.

The conference calls on FEC to:

1. prepare a statement encouraging branches to explore new and innovative ways of identifying and engaging casualised members

2. promote the recruitment and organisation of casualised members through a range of innovative and democratic communication channels (including electronic communication and social media) in order to maximise voice and agency.

3. encourage branches to better represent the needs of casualised members in consultation and decision making structures.

4. prepare a statement encouraging branches to promote the organising and training activities for casualised members to monitor and report on the number of casualised staff in FE in relation to gender, race, LGTB and disability and grades

5. ensure that any recruitment, representation and organising statement includes actions to involve disabled staff.鈥�

6.12 听Motion FE12 on Lesson Observation was moved by Nicky Frank from North Kent College on behalf of South East Regional committee, with support for the amendment, and formally seconded as follows:

This Sector Conference:

1. notes that lesson observation is still a major problem for a significant number of 51福利 members and that despite some progress in some colleges there is no national agreement with the AOC on lesson observation procedures in line with 51福利 policy and guidelines;

2. instructs its officers/officials to prioritise a national agreement on lesson observation procedures and in the meantime circulate best practice from colleges where local agreement has been reached.鈥�

6.12.1听 Amendment FE12A.1 was moved by Darren Tolliday on behalf of North West regional committee and seconded by Jay Sherry from Westminster Kingsway College as follows:

Add

鈥楾here is no evidence that grading teaching improves teaching, conference therefore believes that an effective lesson observation agreement should identify that lesson observations should:

1. not be graded;

2. make judgements by agreement following the professional engagement between the observer and observee;

3. link to an offer of realistic opportunities for meaningful CPD identified as a result of the professional discussion. 鈥�

6.12.2 Amendment FE12A.1 was voted on and CARRIED.

6.12.3 There being none against Motion FE12 as amended was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

This Sector Conference:

2. instructs its officers/officials to prioritise a national agreement on lesson observation procedures and in the meantime circulate best practice from colleges where local agreement has been reached.

There is no evidence that grading teaching improves teaching, conference therefore believes that an effective lesson observation agreement should identify that lesson observations should:

1. not be graded;

2. make judgements by agreement following the professional engagement between the observer and observee;

3. link to an offer of realistic opportunities for meaningful CPD identified as a result of the professional discussion.

6.13 Composite Motion FE13 on FE Workloads was moved by Fiona Bailey from Westminster Kingsway College and seconded by Roy Bentley from Oxford and Cherwell Valley College as follows:

Excessive workload continues to be one of the most pressing issues facing members who can feel as though they are on a treadmill with no respite, expected to work ever longer hours to respond to ever increasing demands from College management. It is a major health and safety issue. National and local surveys persistently identify long working hours as a significant contributor to high levels of stress reported by staff.

In this context, conference notes the 2013 TUC analysis of overtime hours from the Labour Force Survey which concludes that teaching professionals are working an average of 11.1 hours a week unpaid (an increase from 9.6 in the previous year).

Conference also notes the workload agreement signed by 51福利 and AoC in 2011

The provisions of this agreement provide a basis for local branches to raise instances of excessive workloads with management and to agree strategies of avoidance. Colleagues in Wales, Northern Ireland and Adult Education may also use it to assist local campaigns on workloads.

The launch of the national campaign on workload by 51福利 is welcome and provides a framework for branches to develop local campaigns in those colleges where there is a refusal to endorse the national AoC/joint union agreement. Conference gives full support to the campaign.

Conference believes:

1. That college managements' refusing to implement the 51福利 and AoC agreement on workload makes a mockery of national agreements made in good faith by 51福利 with the AoC.

2. That the fight for decent pay and realistic workloads should be seen in the wider context of the campaign against the government's austerity programme.

Conference resolves:

1. To further campaign for colleges to demonstrate that they are implementing the 2011 workload agreement signed by 51福利 and AoC.

2. To ballot for strike action to oppose college managements who have not demonstrated they have implemented the workload agreement

FEC will continue to encourage, support and co-ordinate all branches campaigning on excessive workloads including, where necessary, industrial action.

However, 51福利 branches which do ballot for industrial action short of a strike will need additional support in terms of how only working to contracted hours, prioritisation teaching preparation and marking could be accomplished when managements threaten sanctions for partial performance.鈥�

6.13.1 Amendment FE13A.1 was moved by Alan Barker from New College Nottingham and seconded formally as follows:

In the 'conference believes' section after 'with the AoC' add new bullet point:

That excessive workloads are exacerbated by a culture of institutionalised bullying in many workplaces, with a failure to follow unreasonable instructions often being followed by capability or even disciplinary procedures.

Renumber accordingly.

Add in (a) after AoC 'and challenge instances of bullying especially in colleges that have not complied'.

6.13.2 Amendment FE13A.1 was voted on and CARRIED.

6.13.3 Amendment FE13A.2 was moved by Mick Dawson from Brooklands College on behalf of South East regional committee听 and seconded formally as follows:

Add new third paragraph:

Conference notes the series of 51福利 seminars held to discuss the issues of HE in FE and in particular disparities in remission, delivery, workloading and the paucity of agreements.

Add new c at the end:

For its Officers and FEC (in conjunction with HEC) to develop a model HE in FE agreement and encourage local FE colleges to agree contracts with contracting HE colleges that remove any disparity.

6.13.4 听Amendment FE13A.2 听was voted on and CARRIED.

6.13.5 Motion FE13 on FE Workloads as amended was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Conference notes the series of 51福利 seminars held to discuss the issues of HE in FE and in particular disparities in remission, delivery, workloading and the paucity of agreements.

Conference also notes the workload agreement signed by 51福利 and AoC in 2011

Conference believes:

1. that college managements' refusing to implement the 51福利 and AoC agreement on workload makes a mockery of national agreements made in good faith by 51福利 with the AoC and challenge instances of bullying especially in colleges that have not complied

2. that excessive workloads are exacerbated by a culture of institutionalised bullying in many workplaces, with a failure to follow unreasonable instructions often being followed by capability or even disciplinary procedures

3. that the fight for decent pay and realistic workloads should be seen in the wider context of the campaign against the government's austerity programme.

Conference resolves:

1. to further campaign for colleges to demonstrate that they are implementing the 2011 workload agreement signed by 51福利 and AoC

2. to ballot for strike action to oppose college managements who have not demonstrated they have implemented the workload agreement

3. for its officers and FEC (in conjunction with HEC) to develop a model HE in FE agreement and encourage local FE colleges to agree contracts with contracting HE colleges that remove any disparity.

FEC will continue to encourage, support and co-ordinate all branches campaigning on excessive workloads including, where necessary, industrial action.

6.14 Motion FE14 in Governance in FE was moved by Duncan Harris from New College Nottingham and in support of the amendment and seconded by Mahmoona Shah from Bradford College contribution from Graham Mustin from Barnsley College, Indra Sen from the College of North West London and David Limb from Northern Ireland, James Eaden from Chesterfield College, Maureen Pemberton from Stourbridge College as follows as follows:

Conference notes:

1. Since incorporation FE Colleges have been led by a governing body.

2. This body is not under democratic control but often seems to be in place to simply approve decisions already made by the principal.

3. They should be comprised so as to better reflect the interests of the wider community rather than the narrow focus of the business of the college.

4. They must in future be elected rather than selected by the principal.

Conference instructs the FEC:

1. to empower local branches and regional committees to lobby regional government to use all means at their disposal to exercise some control over governing bodies.

2. to lobby national government to take steps (up to and including legislation) to ensure that there is some democratic control over governing bodies.

3. to seek ways in which 51福利's interests can be represented on local governing bodies.

6.14.1 Amendment FE14A.1 was moved by Pat Roche on behalf of the Disabled Members Standing Committee and was seconded formally as follows:

Add at end of point 3 'Also diversity and equality is usually not a criteria so bodies lack representation from equality groups including disabled staff and organisations'.

Add at end of point c 'and campaigning for diversity of representation including disabled staff'.

6.14.2 Amendment FE14A.1 was voted on and CARRIED.

6.14.3 Amendment FE14A.2 was moved by Jim Thakoordin on behalf of the Black Members Standing Committee and seconded formally as follows:

Add at end of c

To lobby national government to ensure that governing bodies represents the ethnic/racial, and demographic make-up of the local over 18 population and/or the students of each College.鈥�

6.14.4 Amendment FE14A.2 was voted on and CARRIED.

6.14.5 There being none against Motion FE14 as amended on Governance in FE was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Conference notes:

1. Since incorporation FE Colleges have been led by a governing body.

2. This body is not under democratic control but often seems to be in place to simply approve decisions already made by the principal.

3. They should be comprised so as to better reflect the interests of the wider community rather than the narrow focus of the business of the college. Also diversity and equality is usually not a criteria so bodies lack representation from equality groups including disabled staff and organisations

4. They must in future be elected rather than selected by the principal.

Conference instructs the FEC:

1. to empower local branches and regional committees to lobby regional government to use all means at their disposal to exercise some control over governing bodies.

2. to lobby national government to take steps (up to and including legislation) to ensure that there is some democratic control over governing bodies.

3. to seek ways in which 51福利's interests can be represented on local governing bodies and campaigning for diversity of representation including disabled staff

4. to lobby national government to ensure that governing bodies represents the ethnic/racial, and demographic make-up of the local over 18 population and/or the students of each College.

6.15 Motion FE15 on FE Funding was moved by Richard McEwan from Tower Hamlets College and seconded by Anne Holder from Community Education Lewisham on behalf of the FEC as follows:

Conference notes the continuing funding squeeze on FE. This is compounded by the introduction of FE loans and changes in funding methodologies for both 16-19 year olds and adults learners. Both changes threaten cuts in teaching time and less support for students.

Conference continues to support 51福利's campaigns to increase FE funding and opposition to FE loans so that every young person or adult studying is able to access comprehensive high quality learning programmes.鈥�

6.15.1 Amendment FE15A.1 was moved by Mick Dawson from Brooklands College on behalf of South East regional FE committee and seconded by Jonathan Gilhooly from City College Brighton and Hove as follows:

Add new second paragraph:

Conference:

1. notes the changes in 16-19 funding for 2013/14 contained in the FE Branch Officer update for 1st March 2013 and in the briefing

2. instructs its Officers to:

1. remind Branches to send management response details to them and Regional Offices;

2. mount a campaign with other post-16 unions to prevent such changes as those to working hours/the working year by colleges as a response to funding changes. 鈥�

6.15.2 Amendment FE15A.1 was voted on and CARRIED.

6.15.3 Amendment FE15A.2 was moved by Jenny Prideaux on behalf of the FEC and seconded by Lee Short from Barnsley College with contribution from David Branson from Middlesbrough College as follows:

In second paragraph insert after second sentence

The proposals in the Rigour and Responsiveness White Paper give LEPs an important role in setting area skills strategies and have significant representation on college governing bodies. 51福利 should remain vigilant and monitor the activities of LEPs around skills developments and on college governing bodies. 51福利 will oppose developments which distort the provision of comprehensive adult learning programmes and/or dominate governing body's discussions and decisions.

6.15.4 Amendment FE15A.2 was voted and CARRIED.

6.15.5 There being none against Motion FE15 as amended on FE Funding was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Conference:

1. notes the changes in 16-19 funding for 2013/14 contained in the FE Branch Officer update for 1st March 2013 and in the briefing

2. instructs its officers to:

1.听听听听 remind Branches to send management response details to them and Regional Offices;

2. 听听听 mount a campaign with other post-16 unions to prevent such changes as those to working hours/the working year by colleges as a response to funding changes.

Conference further notes government support for the Heseltine recommendations to channel skills development funding through Local Enterprise Partnerships. This risks increased fragmentation and confusion for colleges and competing priorities from different LEPs. The proposals in the Rigour and Responsiveness White Paper give LEPs an important role in setting area skills strategies and have significant representation on college governing bodies. 51福利 should remain vigilant and monitor the activities of LEPs around skills developments and on college governing bodies. 51福利 will oppose developments which distort the provision of comprehensive adult learning programmes and/or dominate governing body's discussions and decisions.

6.16 听Motion FE16 on FE Funding Mechanisms was moved by Alan Barker from New College Nottingham on behalf of East Midlands regional FE committee and seconded by Duncan Harris from New College Nottingham as follows:

Conference notes:

1. Current FE funding mechanisms take into account recruitment, retention and achievement.

2. There is a date set early in the academic year (the so called census date), beyond which students still on roll count towards achievement figures.

3. This system has resulted in FE management removing students unfairly from courses before the census date and keeping them on the course after it regardless of circumstances.

4. The system unfairly penalises teachers when students leave due to factors entirely beyond their control.

5. The reason for leaving may be entirely in the student's best interests.

6. This is particularly hard on students from disadvantaged backgrounds and the colleges that serve them as there is greater pressure to leave education and find work.

Conference calls on the FEC to:

1. investigate a fairer funding mechanism for FE.

2. work with government and funding agencies to implement a revised system.

6.16.1 There being none against motion FE16 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Conference notes:

1. Current FE funding mechanisms take into account recruitment, retention and achievement.

2. There is a date set early in the academic year (the so called census date), beyond which students still on roll count towards achievement figures.

3. This system has resulted in FE management removing students unfairly from courses before the census date and keeping them on the course after it regardless of circumstances.

4.The system unfairly penalises teachers when students leave due to factors entirely beyond their control.

5.The reason for leaving may be entirely in the student's best interests.

6. This is particularly hard on students from disadvantaged backgrounds and the colleges that serve them as there is greater pressure to leave education and find work.

Conference calls on the FEC to:

1. investigate a fairer funding mechanism for FE.

2. work with government and funding agencies to implement a revised system.鈥�

6.17 听Composite Motion FE17 on Funding, recruitment, fees and loans was moved by Peter Bicknell from LeSo ( Lewisham) College and seconded by Allister Mactaggart from Chesterfield College and contributions from Loraine Monk from Richmond Adult and Community College and Brian O鈥橲ullivan from Bourneville College as follows:

Sector Conference notes the introduction of FE loans for students on Level 3 FE courses and the sustained cuts to education budgets in the FE sector.

These measures can only amount to a further reduction in access to post-compulsory education and jeopardise student recruitment in FE, as well as threaten the viability of many courses and even whole institutions. Our jobs and conditions are increasingly threatened by the coalition government's education funding cuts, unaffordable student tuition fees and loans. This is leading to a restriction in access to post-compulsory education, particularly for working class, adult and mature students and will have an adverse effect on the growth of the economy.

Conference:

1. vows to campaign vigorously against funding cuts and calls on the government to invest in post-compulsory education.

2. reasserts its vehement opposition to student tuition fees and demands their withdrawal.

3. demands that the government reverse their policy to introduce loans in FE.

4. demands that the government reintroduces the Educational Maintenance Allowance.

6.17.1 There being none against motion FE17 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Sector Conference notes the introduction of FE loans for students on Level 3 FE courses and the sustained cuts to education budgets in the FE sector.

Conference:

1.vows to campaign vigorously against funding cuts and calls on the government to invest in post-compulsory education.

2. reasserts its vehement opposition to student tuition fees and demands their withdrawal.

3. demands that the government reverse their policy to introduce loans in FE.

4. demands that the government reintroduces the Educational Maintenance Allowance.

6.18 Motion FE 18 on Women students in FE-the hardest hit was moved by Vicky Knight from The Manchester College on behalf of the Women members standing committee and seconded by Monica Goligher from Belfast Metropolitan College with contributions from Rhiannon Lockley from Halesowen College听 and Jenny Sutton from College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London as follows:

FESC notes that

Adult women students in further education are being hit doubly hard by the impact of government cuts-the end of ALG funds, loss of benefits in the Coalition's cuts, the introduction of fees for students aged 24+, JSA work-fare programmes and cuts in learner support funds all threaten their ability to enrol on courses and, once enrolled, to complete their studies.

It is often those with the biggest burdens that will be hardest hit as fees and the payment of universal credit to just one person in the family will make it harder for those who have unsympathetic partners to enrol.

Conference instructs FEC to campaign against these measures wherever possible and to seek to join with NUS, other unions and community groups to lobby to protect the right of unemployed and low paid students to free and resourced education.

6.18.1 There being none against motion FE19 on Women students in FE-the hardest hit was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

FESC notes that

6.19 Composite Motion FE19 In defence of ESOL was moved by Mary Bottomley from Greenwich Community College and seconded by Lee Short from Barnsley College with a contribution from Mandy Brown, incoming NEC, as follows:

FE Sector Conference notes the government's proposal to change the funding rules for ESOL which will drastically cut ESOL provision in colleges and mean learners will only have access to 50 hours of classes before taking a Speaking and Listening exam. This is totally unrealistic and is less than a third of the current number of learning hours (180 hours per level per mode).

Conference condemns the continuous attacks on eligibility and funding for ESOL. We welcome that the Skills Funding Agency recognises ESOL as essential for life in the UK and therefore demand that eligibility and funding are made sustainable into the future.

This Conference urges the government to allow ESOL to remain unlisted and not cut funding by reducing the number of Guided Learning Hours.

Conference asks members to:

1. sign the e-petition (access via Latest News)

2. write to their local MP to raise awareness of the issue

3. view the cut as a further government attack on multiculturalism, and campaign in defence of ESOL in this context.

Conference also calls on 51福利 FEC to organise a national demonstration in defence of ESOL and against all education cuts. 鈥�

6.19.1 There being none against Motion FE19 In defence of ESOL was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

This Conference urges the government to allow ESOL to remain unlisted and not cut funding by reducing the number of Guided Learning Hours.

Conference asks members to:

1. sign the e-petition (access via Latest News)

2.听听 write to their local MP to raise awareness of the issue

3. view the cut as a further government attack on multiculturalism, and campaign in defence of ESOL in this context.

Conference also calls on 51福利 FEC to organise a national demonstration in defence of ESOL and against all education cuts.

6.20 听Motion FE20 Gazelle was moved by Jonathan Sullivan from Warwickshire College and seconded by Peter Bicknell from LeSo College with contribution from Margot Hill from Croydon College and Richard Bathgate from Gateshead College as follows:

This conference believes there is a need to commission urgent research and investigation into:

1. The organisational practices (including the amount of time committed to Gazelle by Principals) financial matters of the Gazelle group (including financial input by colleges)

2. The legitimacy of colleges acting as shareholders in the Gazelle group

Further, the subject of research and investigation, for the most part it is believed would be aided by a meeting of key activists working in Gazelle colleges who are able to share information and experience.

It is additionally seen as vital that data is obtained on the extent of involvement of listed entrepreneurs, capital expenditure funding, student outcomes and destinations, terms and conditions of staff working in various hubs across the regions.

6.20.1 There being none against motion FE20 Gazelle was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

This conference believes there is a need to commission urgent research and investigation into:

1.听听 The organisational practices (including the amount of time committed to Gazelle by Principals) financial matters of the Gazelle group (including financial input by colleges)

2. 听 The legitimacy of colleges acting as shareholders in the Gazelle group

6.21 Motion FE 21 Oppose the Academisation of 16-19 education was moved by Philip Magee from City and Islington College and formally seconded as follows:

Conference notes

1. The increasing introduction of 6th form academies and free schools in the FE sector.

2. The government is introducing STEM (Science Technology Engineering Maths Academy) in opposition to the existing 16-19 education provision.

3. The above colleges have a narrow view of education, and a less successful rate of achievement compared to FE and 6th form colleges.

4. These colleges drain resources and students from local FE colleges and sixth form centres. For example a new free school is planned to open off the City Rd Islington in direct competition with City and Islington College.

Conference believes

1. we should oppose the movement of setting up sixth form academies

2. that 51福利 FE Sector should build a national campaign against the academy movement.

Conference resolves that the FE Committee will organise a broad based campaign to oppose the academisation of 16-19 education.

6.21.1 There being none against motion FE21 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Conference notes

1. The increasing introduction of 6th form academies and free schools in the FE sector.

2. The government is introducing STEM (Science Technology Engineering Maths Academy) in opposition to the existing 16-19 education provision.

3. The above colleges have a narrow view of education, and a less successful rate of achievement compared to FE and 6th form colleges.

Conference believes

1. we should oppose the movement of setting up sixth form academies

2. that 51福利 FE Sector should build a national campaign against the academy movement.

Conference resolves that the FE Committee will organise a broad based campaign to oppose the academisation of 16-19 education.

6.22 Motion FE 22 Abolish Ofsted was moved by Maire Daley from Liverpool Community College and seconded by Angie McConnell from Wigan and Leigh College as follows:

Ofsted's annual report and accounts for 2011-12 reveal that it anticipates receiving a budget of 拢142 million in 2014-15. Even a genuinely effective and developmental measurement system this costly cannot be justified in an age of austerity, when resources could be better utilised at the chalk face.

But we do not have a genuinely developmental system. According to Sir Michael Wilshaw, HM Chief Inspector, if anyone says to you that staff morale is at an all time low, you know you are doing something right. As educators we know that a precondition of learning is that it is consensual not coercive. The prevailing reductive and data driven inspection regime may generate compliance, but a system built on fear cannot promote dignity, creativity or genuine learning in students or teachers.

Conference calls on 51福利's leadership to lobby across the political spectrum in concert with sister trade unions for Ofsted's abolition.

6.22.1 Amendment FE22A.1 was moved by Darren Bradshaw from Blackpool and The Fylde College听 on behalf of North West regional FE committee and seconded by Martin McAreavey from Blackburn College as follows:

OFSTED inspectors have little experience of teaching in the sector or taught long ago, their most recent experience is more likely to be managerial.

OFSTED is not fit for purpose and is immune to criticism, last year 20% of colleges inspected complained, no complaint was upheld.

Conference calls for an independent self and peer review body to replace OFSTED: owned and managed by practitioners and responsive to the needs of students, teachers and providers.

6.22.2 Amendment FE22A.1 was voted on and CARRIED.

6.22.3 There being none against motion FE22 as amended Abolish Ofsted was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Conference calls on 51福利's leadership to lobby across the political spectrum in concert with sister trade unions for Ofsted's abolition.

OFSTED inspectors have little experience of teaching in the sector or taught long ago, their most recent experience is more likely to be managerial.

OFSTED is not fit for purpose and is immune to criticism, last year 20% of colleges inspected complained, no complaint was upheld.

Conference calls for an independent self and peer review body to replace OFSTED: owned and managed by practitioners and responsive to the needs of students, teachers and providers.

6.23 Motion FE23 Representation and recruitment of staff in adult and community education was moved by Jim Thakoordin on behalf of the anti-casualisation committee and seconded by Amy Jowett from Hackney Adult Education with contribution from Les Price from Leicester ACE, where it was noted that the 51福利 Adult Education Conference is being held on 21^st June at Head office , as follows:

Conference notes the continued government attacks on funding for Adult and Community Education (ACE). This has led to an increasingly harsh working environment as many ACE lectures are part-time, hourly paid and casual workers. Most staff experience low pay, have their hours cut at short notice and are not provided with adequate resources for teaching.

Furthermore, union density is low within ACE as staff are unaware of the union and/or unable to attend branch meetings as they do not have a permanent teaching base. Conference notes the new recruitment materials aimed at recruiting those within ACE.

Conference therefore calls upon the FEC to:

1. prepare a statement and briefing materials for negotiators on terms and conditions in ACE, to be sent to all branches

2. further develop a dedicated ACE recruitment campaign with materials and organise regional and national meetings. 鈥�

6.23.1 There being none against Motion FE23 Representation and recruitment of staff in adult and community education was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

Conference therefore calls upon the FEC to:

1. prepare a statement and briefing materials for negotiators on terms and conditions in ACE, to be sent to all branches

2. further develop a dedicated ACE recruitment campaign with materials and organise regional and national meetings. 鈥�

6.24 Motion FE24 FE Guild and Teaching Qualifications was moved by Pauline Hall on behalf of South East Regional听 FE Committee and seconded by Rob Bethan from Lambeth College with contributions from Nikki Frank from North West Kent College and Mahmoona Shah from Bradford College as follows:

This Sector Conference notes:

1. the findings of the Independent Review Panel on Professionalism in FE led by Lord Lingfield - October 2012;

2. the continued uncertainty about FE Teaching qualifications and the increasing failure of college managers to support staff in obtaining qualifications;

3. that 51福利 is part of the FE Guild Steering Committee although the Guild's full purpose and remit is unclear.

This Sector Conference reminds 51福利 officers/officials that:

1. the policy of 51福利 is that anyone teaching and/or training on FE courses - whether lecturers, instructors, workplace supervisors and assessors - offered by any provider should be qualified according to an agreed set of standards and that there should be full support (including time off/financial support) for individuals to obtain such qualifications to gain professional status;

2. campaigns and negotiations must continue until this policy is met;

3. an FE Guild or equivalent body should fully support (a) above.

6.24.1 There being none against Motion FE24 FE Guild and teaching Qualifications was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

This Sector Conference notes:

1.听听 the findings of the Independent Review Panel on Professionalism in FE led by Lord Lingfield - October 2012;

2. 听 the continued uncertainty about FE Teaching qualifications and the increasing failure of college managers to support staff in obtaining qualifications;

3. 听 that 51福利 is part of the FE Guild Steering Committee although the Guild鈥檚 full purpose and remit is unclear.

This Sector Conference reminds 51福利 officers/officials that:

1.听听 the policy of 51福利 is that anyone teaching and/or training on FE courses - whether lecturers, instructors, workplace supervisors and assessors - offered by any provider should be qualified according to an agreed set of standards and that there should be full support (including time off/financial support) for individuals to obtain such qualifications to gain professional status;

2.campaigns and negotiations must continue until this policy is met;

3. an FE Guild or equivalent body should fully support (a) above.

6.25 Motion FE 25 FE Guild was moved by Lance Phillips from The Manchester College Prison branch and seconded formally as follows:

Conference notes the creation of the FE Guild. Conference welcomes the Guild not having mandatory individual practitioner membership. Conference believes the only viable basis of the Guild is as an independent organisation built on partnership and will resist any moves to make individual payment mandatory.

FEC will continue to press the Guild to:

1. cover the whole FE workforce

2. be funded in part by a levy on sector employers

3. continue to involve and engage practitioners and unions

4. have regular meetings with FE unions

5. work to restore the requirement for newly appointed lecturers to have a FE teaching qualification.

6. press providers to have and support high quality initial training and CPD policies and practices

7. benchmark institutional CPD programmes which are negotiated with FE staff unions

8. support initial training and CPD being included within normal working time and that colleges give full financial other support.

6.25.1 There being none against Motion FE25 FE Guild was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

FEC will continue to press the Guild to:

1.cover the whole FE workforce

2. be funded in part by a levy on sector employers

3. continue to involve and engage practitioners and unions

4. have regular meetings with FE unions

5. work to restore the requirement for newly appointed lecturers to have a FE teaching qualification.

6. press providers to have and support high quality initial training and CPD policies and practices

7.benchmark institutional CPD programmes which are negotiated with FE staff unions

8. support initial training and CPD being included within normal working time and that colleges give full financial other support.

6.26 Motion FE26 Prison Education 鈥� funding, pay and conditions was moved by Lance Phillips from The Manchester College Prisons branch and seconded by Matthew Bishop as follows:

Conference notes the revised model of F.E. funding has been piloted in offender learning during 2012/13. Where we are united by a funding model it is now imperative that 51福利 pro-actively campaigns to assure the parity of prison educators with mainstream colleagues and protects them against further attacks upon their pay, status, terms & conditions.

Our employers should not have the opportunity to cite existing offender learning pay and grading structures as indicative of the direction in which they should move to maximise profits under the new methodology.

Conference therefore re-iterates its commitment to actively undertake parity campaigning for professional prison educators and calls upon FEC to negotiate with the AoC and OLASS providers a pay and grading structure for prison educators that assures parity with mainstream FE colleagues.鈥�

6.26.1 There being none against motion FE 26 was voted on and CARRIED as follows:

7 听Dan Taubman鈥檚 report on the FE Guild

7.1 听听Conference applauded Dan Taubman and gave him a standing ovation in appreciation for all his work over the years as this will be his last Conference before his retirement in December.

7.2听听 Dan thanked delegates for the kind comments and reported that it had been a privilege to be a member and work in FE for the past 40 years.

7.3 听 Dan reported that the FE Guild may be changing its name to Education and Training. 51福利 are on the steering committee and is looking at sector teacher qualifications. 听We have had professional standards since 2006 and they do need to be reviewed. He urged Conference, including HE members to get involved in the consultation on teaching qualifications at level 4 and 5. We are adamant that the Guild would not have individual membership as with the IfL and 51福利 is being vigilant on this. Dan reported that he would be giving a full up to date report at future FECs.

8 Delegate reports from Colleges

8.1 听 South Essex College (merged in 2010 to Thurrock and South Essex College) reported that the college had been Ofsted鈥檈d and graded a 3. The Principal had left and the college had inherited the Principal of Sunderland College. Two weeks ago a 鈥淢anagement of Change 鈥� had been announced with funding cuts as the college was 3.7m under budget and a payroll cut of 1.8m was needed; 68 staff dropped, a reduction in salary, no more .8 on scale, pay freeze and all staff at risk. Proposals for a new pay date 1^st July and a new structure in September. Conference was asked for delegates support.

8.2 听 Tower Hamlets College 鈥� there are proposals for a new sickness policy where staff could be sacked on an arbitrary meeting with management. Members are being balloted for action on this issue.

8.3听听 Chesterfield College 鈥� this is the third year in a row that compulsory redundancies are being made. Strike action was initially withdrawn, but the branch is being balloted for a one day strike, but there is a tight time table. There is a branch meeting next Tuesday. Delegates were urged to sign an online petition and campaign as the branch has a fight on its hands.

8.4 听 Grimsby College 鈥� if the one day strike goes well at Chesterfield, it will help Grimsby. There are two attacks at Grimsby; on contracts and there are job cuts with a proposed 35 job losses, 20% cut in FE. A ballot is being held for strike action and action short of a strike and the result will be in next Monday.

8.5 听 Kirklees College 鈥� the college has a fabulous new building costing 80m. Staff face pay cuts and contract changes. The issue of a section 188 was full of errors. A ballot has been opened for industrial action to say no to compulsory redundancies and to lesser contracts. A blog has been set up and messages of support are needed. A big thank you to John Giddins and Julie Kelley was made.

8.7 The Chair thanked delegates for their reported and appealed for branches to send messages of support as well as personal messages. He reminded delegated of the ballot for national negotiators.

9 Close of business

It being the end of business the Chair thanked delegates for a successful Conference and closed the Conference.