Features and opinion

Drawing on insights from CACHE Alumni members and NCFE’s latest research, Claire Montague explores why greater recognition and visibility of career pathways are key to attracting, developing and retaining the future social care workforce.

Michael Lemin, Head of Policy and Strategy at NCFE, reflects on his time at the 2026 Labour Party Conference in Liverpool and how the announcements and discussions could shape the education sector.

Our Social Care Sector Manager, Claire Montague, explores the frameworks and approaches helping organisations to embed trauma-informed practice and better support those affected by trauma.

Our Sector Manager for Education and Childcare, Janet King, asks professionals working across education, early years, health, and social care – if young people are taking positive steps towards their future, what's making progress feel so difficult? 

University College Birmingham lecturer Emma Davis explores why improving wellbeing in the early years workforce depends on addressing systemic challenges including pay, workload, career progression and retention.

In 2026, almost 20,000 learners received T Level results. These figures reinforce a growing trend – that young people increasingly want qualifications that combine academic learning with meaningful, real-world experience. 

Our Assessment Innovation Manager, Gray Mytton, explores how AI is reshaping workforce skills, outlining three priorities for a future-ready skills system: prioritising adaptability, combining human and technical skills, and creating flexible education and careers guidance.

Our Product Manager for Technical Education, David Rowley, explains how schools can navigate post-16 qualification reforms and build clear vocational progression pathways for learners, supporting effective curriculum planning.