FE managers need practical help to get the most out of disciplinary procedures

Recognising the important role that student disciplinary hearings can play in improving retention rates in the further education (FE) sector, my firm, Shakespeares, is running a practical seminar to coach managers on how to conduct these properly.

With over 900,000 students enrolling at FE Colleges each year and over 100,000 dropping out before the end of their first year, it is crucial that managers utilise any tools at their disposal to help aid retention. To support them in this, Shakespeares is running a seminar at its office in Birmingham on 1st October 2013 to shed light on some strategies for handling disciplinary procedures at every stage.

All too often, the disciplinary process is viewed as entirely negative. This event will remind managers that if they follow the correct procedures, disciplinary hearings can help turn around failing students and boost retention rates at the same time.

Earlier this year, Ofsted chief, Sir Michael Wilshaw stressed the need for FE establishments to widen the criteria which determines overall performance by focusing on areas like student retention and the quality of the learning experience.

It is clear that student retention is a significant issue. Adopting best practice in terms of implementing thorough disciplinary procedures could boost performance ratings.

When well managed, disciplinary hearings can achieve much more than just addressing the needs of the individual. They can also play a major role in aiding overall performance and goal setting for FE providers.

It is vital that managers in the FE sector ensure that student disciplinary hearings provide the support and direction necessary to eradicate problems and set individuals back on a path to success – clearly, this is in everyone’s best interests.

The guest speaker at the event is Sir Geoff Hall, former principal of New College Nottingham (NCN) and now chairman of The Information Authority.

Richard Brackenbury is a partner at Shakespeares law firm

The event is taking place on 1st October 2013 from 10am-12:30pm at the Birmingham offices of Shakespeares on Temple Street in the city centre. The seminar carries 3 CPD points. Contact Lisa Watts to register your interest in attending