Faced with cuts, redundancies and taking widespread strike action — it's fair to say these are testing times for lecturers.
Just a quick scan through recent headlines gives the impression that entry into higher and further education lecturing roles is going to be tough for those hoping to follow this career path.
Earlier this month, lecturers warned they may strike over at least 14,000 job losses at universities across the country, according to a Guardian article.
The University and College Union (UCU) general secretary Sally Hunt — who also told the BBC that lecturers were reporting redundancies daily — said there could be a national strike if discussions about redundancies broke down between academics and their employers.
Colleges aren't immune from reduced funding either — they join universities in being faced with £1.4bn in cuts, reported the BBC.
However, growth is predicted in a different type of higher education provider. Paul Marshall, head of the 1994 Group of universities, forecasts an expansion in the private university sector as traditional universities struggle to meet the demand for places.
So — our faithful careers regulars are not known for backing down in the face of challenging conditions. If you are keen to embark in a career in lecturing, we've assembled a panel of experts to help you achieve this goal.
Whether it is further, higher or adult education you'd like to teach in, join us on 9 July, between 1pm—4pm, to put your questions to those experienced in these areas.
The discussion is now open for advance questions.
Our panel:
Emma Hart is director of Hp Media. Emma is a media lecturer for Bocconi University, and she also lectures at Brighton Media School.
Allison Belger works for the Information and Advice Service at Lifelong Learning UK — the employer-led sector skills council for the UK lifelong learning sector. Allison has worked in this area for 20 years as a tutor, manager and teacher trainer.
Lee Davies is deputy chief executive of the Institute for Learning, the professional body for teachers, tutors, trainers and others involved in further education. Lee worked for 12 years at Highbury College in Portsmouth, starting out as a part-time plumbing lecturer in 1987.
Simon Beer is the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) programme leader for London and the south-east. His role involves ensuring the policies and programmes of adult learning have the maximum impact in these regions. Simon has worked in further, higher and adult education since 1986.
Jacqueline Purcell is a specialist university lecturer in public relations strategy. She currently teaches at Thames Valley University, and is also president of London's longest established speakers club, Grosvenor Square Speakers.
Michael Holley is a senior lecturer in media production at the University of Chichester. Michael started his career as an electrician before completing an MA in screenwriting as a mature student. This then took him into work as a part-time lecturer in further education, a producer and as a screenwriter.
Paul Cottrell is head of policy for the University and College Union.
