Two further education teachers from Yorkshire are set to appear in a new show designed to shine a light on the skills professionals bring to FE teaching. Peter Face and Steve Syers were chosen from peers across England to feature in The Share Your Skills Quiz, a collaboration between the Department of Education and BuzzFeed.
The show pairs teachers from vocational industries such as construction, IT, and nursing to compete in challenges that test their ability to teach the public effectively. Contestants race to identify the skills needed in FE, bust common misconceptions, and demonstrate how they bring their industry experience into the classroom.
The programme goes live on Monday 13th October on BuzzFeed UK’s YouTube channel.
Face and Syers, both based at Craven College in Skipton, represent the construction trades. Syers moved into FE after working in construction, while Face, a former construction business owner, now teaches Painting and Decorating.
“I never imagined I’d go from running my own business to teaching in Further Education, but it’s been an incredibly rewarding transition,” said Face. “With the support of my college and colleagues, I was able to start sharing my skills straight away, gaining my teaching qualifications while on the job. Sharing real-world experience with students and watching them grow has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my career. I’m thrilled to bring that same passion and energy to the Share Your Skills game show to inspire others to consider passing on their skills to the next generation of construction professionals.”
Syers, Subject Lead for Plastering at Craven College, added: “After almost 20 years teaching plastering at Craven College, I’ve seen firsthand how rewarding sharing your skills can be. Teaching in Further Education is an opportunity to listen, encourage, and guide learners as they discover what they’re capable of and prepare to start their careers. Every year, I see students arrive with little experience and leave with the confidence to take on real-world challenges. Taking part in the game show reminded me of the buzz that comes with a challenge, whether in the workshop or on a fast-paced industry set. Watching teachers think on their feet and support one another felt just like life in Further Education. Day to day, it’s the small moments – seeing someone master a new technique or grow in self-belief – that make this role so fulfilling. If you’re thinking about teaching in FE, embrace it wholeheartedly. With patience and enthusiasm, you’ll make a lasting impact far beyond the classroom.”
The show aims to demonstrate that professionals with industry experience already have the skills needed to teach in FE. A wide range of courses are offered, meaning that for most industries, there is a place in Further Education. Teachers can start without prior teaching qualifications or an academic degree, completing training while on the job and earning straight away.
For more information on becoming a further education teacher, visit teachinfurthereducation.education.gov.uk.
