McLaren Automotive, in partnership with the Department for Education’s Teach in Further Education (FE) campaign, has launched an exciting new initiative—Skills Drive. This innovative competition aims to highlight the crucial role of FE teachers in shaping the next generation of engineers while encouraging experienced industry professionals to consider a career in teaching.
Bridging the Skills Gap in Engineering and Automotive Sectors
The UK automotive industry relies on a strong pipeline of skilled professionals to drive innovation and maintain its global competitiveness. Engineering and automotive FE teachers play a pivotal role in equipping students with the practical knowledge and expertise needed to excel in these fields. Skills Drive is designed to celebrate their contributions and inspire more professionals to share their skills through FE teaching.
“Fuelling the next generation of talent through excellent further education teaching is vital to drive forward our country’s most successful industries,” said Jacqui Smith, Minister of State for Skills. “FE teaching offers experienced professionals a chance to shift gear and inspire the next generation of talent in their field. We’re excited to work with McLaren to celebrate the nation’s brilliant FE teachers and inspire more to join them.”
A Unique Opportunity for FE Teachers and Industry Professionals
Skills Drive is open to engineering and automotive FE teachers across England. Applicants have until 25 February 2025 to enter by showcasing how they inspire and equip students with the skills needed for success.
The competition will culminate in an exclusive final event at the McLaren Technology Centre (MTC) in Woking—the heart of McLaren’s supercar manufacturing and home to its Formula 1 team. Three shortlisted FE teachers will form teams of students to compete in a thrilling final challenge, where they will receive an engineering masterclass and a behind-the-scenes look at McLaren’s state-of-the-art facility. The winning team will be determined through a series of hands-on challenges designed to test their creativity, problem-solving, and technical expertise.
Why Teaching in Further Education?
The Skills Drive competition also serves as a powerful reminder of the opportunities available in FE teaching. Many experienced industry professionals may already have the expertise required to make a significant impact in education. FE covers formal learning for individuals aged 16 and older, spanning industries from automotive and engineering to construction and healthcare.
One of the key advantages of FE teaching is its flexibility. With part-time contracts widely available, many industry experts can balance teaching alongside their current careers, allowing them to “shift gear” without stepping away from their professional roles. Additionally, prior teaching qualifications or an academic degree are not always required to begin teaching in FE. Training can often be completed on the job, enabling professionals to earn while they learn.
A Call to Action for Industry Professionals
McLaren Automotive’s Chief Executive Officer, Michael Leiters, reinforced the importance of initiatives like Skills Drive in developing future talent: “Our people are our greatest assets. At McLaren, we are committed to building a pipeline of talent and work extensively with FE colleges on the skills we need now and for the future. We’re excited to be partnering with the Teach in Further Education campaign to deliver the Skills Drive competition and celebrate the brilliant FE teachers from across the country who work to nurture and drive talent into our innovative sector.”
For automotive and engineering FE teachers in England interested in participating in the Skills Drive competition, further details and the application process can be found at McLaren Skills Drive Challenge – Teach in Further Education – Department for Education. Entries close on 25 February 2025 at 5 PM.
This initiative not only champions the role of FE educators but also offers a unique platform for industry professionals to give back, shape the future workforce, and contribute to the ongoing success of the UK’s engineering and automotive sectors.
