Still time for FE lecturers to join the Institute for Learning

The Institute for Learning (IfL) has announced that over 100,000 teachers are now registered as members.

Existing FE teachers in England are required to register and to abide by the IfL code of professional practice. They will also have to undertake at least 30 hours' continuing professional development (CPD) each year. By virtue of changes to Learning and Skills Council (LSC) provider contracts, these requirements will be extended to teachers and trainers throughout the wider sector, who will have to register by September 2008, or within six months of starting to teach.

Teachers new to the sector from September 2007 are additionally required to become licensed practitioners. Although not mandatory for them, existing teachers are also encouraged to become licensed practitioners, as this will become the benchmark for the sector.

If you are an FE lecturer in England, but you missed the 31 March 2008 deadline for registration, you are advised to register without any further delay.

• Visit the IfL website for up-to-date information on registration specific to your teaching role.
• Select the appropriate link, depending on when you started teaching in the sector, and read the information provided. Download and read the 'Top tips' sheet for guidance.
• Click the Join Online link. Complete and submit your registration.