ARTICLE
In 2026, wellbeing will decide who stays and who goes
Every day, we connect with FE lecturers who are passionate about their roles and the difference they make. Increasingly, conversations focus on wellbeing, alongside salary and career progression. This shift reflects a genuine change in priorities across the sector. In 2026, colleges that put staff wellbeing at the forefront are not just holding onto their teams, they’re also drawing new talent. The results are clear: a focus on wellbeing is driving positive changes across Further Education.
January 26, 2026
Wellbeing Comes First
For years, many in FE have balanced demanding workloads with personal commitments. Recent years, especially following the pandemic, have prompted colleges to review and improve how they support staff wellbeing, leading to lasting, sector-wide improvements.
Staff now look closely at wellbeing support when considering a new role or deciding whether to stay. Colleges that listen and act on staff feedback are seeing positive impacts on morale, performance, and overall satisfaction.
What Works: Practical Strategies in FE Colleges
More colleges are making wellbeing a practical priority. Here are some of the ways colleges are putting their staff first:
- Flexible Working That Makes an Impact
FE colleges are adopting creative solutions to meet staff needs. “Admin from home” days enable staff to catch up on planning and paperwork without the stress of travel. Flexible hours for tasks like marking and professional development are becoming more common, promoting better work-life balance.
- Valuing PPA Time
Protecting Planning, Preparation, and Assessment (PPA) time is now standard practice among leading colleges. Safeguarding this time helps ensure educators can focus on delivering quality lessons and reduces unnecessary stress.
- Positive Behaviour Support
Robust policies around student behaviour are empowering lecturers to teach with greater confidence. When colleges put clear support systems in place, staff can focus on their core work, knowing that they have practical backing from their institution.
- Wellbeing Attracts the Best
Colleges that prioritise staff wellbeing attract skilled professionals who are keen to join environments where they will feel valued. Increasingly, job seekers choose roles at colleges recognised for their supportive culture and positive working practices, even when other institutions might offer more lucrative packages.
The benefits of this approach are clear: colleges not only recruit skilled staff, but also maintain high retention rates as lecturers and support teams choose to build their careers in places that promote their wellbeing.
Relationships, Not Just Retention
Colleges are recognising that genuine staff wellbeing is built on strong, supportive relationships. Regular check-ins, open communication, peer mentoring, and opportunities for professional and personal development are now more widespread across the sector, fostering healthy, motivated teams.
As a result, word spreads among the FE community. A positive working environment often leads to recommendations, helping colleges build vibrant and cohesive teams committed to long-term success.
If you found these insights valuable, why not share this article with a colleague or your professional network? Together, we can help create healthier, happier colleges for everyone.
