The FE Media Podcast: Recent Episodes
Jay George
The FE Media Podcast discusses all things further education, higher education and careers for young people and adult learners in the UK. We bring on weekly guests who are leaders in the sector to discuss current trends, issues and solutions for the sector
In this episode, I sit down with Ayman to explore the future of tech careers in the GCC. We dive into which roles in AI, Data, and Cybersecurity are most in demand right now, and which countries and sectors are hiring the fastest. Ayman shares what employers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are really looking for when reviewing candidates — from the key skills and certifications that stand out, to the practical experiences that make a CV shine. For those transitioning into tech without a traditional background, Ayman highlights the steps and strategies that help candidates secure interviews and land offers quickly. We also unpack what entry-level professionals can realistically expect in terms of salaries and growth opportunities across the region. Finally, Ayman leaves listeners with one powerful piece of advice for anyone joining our accelerator who wants to secure a role in tech within six months.
Shaping the Future of Education with Jihad Mohaidat
In this episode, I sit down with Jihad Mohaidat, an experienced leader in higher education and executive learning. We explore how institutions can transform their student recruitment, admissions, and delivery models to meet the evolving demands of learners and employers. From digital innovation to the power of AI in education, Jihad shares actionable insights on building future-ready institutions that go beyond tradition.
💡 Learn more about how we support institutions here: https://lnkd.in/eNvsDQ88
Just had an inspiring conversation with Shaikha Alkaabi from Khalifa University on our latest podcast episode.
We explored how the UAE is shaping the future of aerospace education, attracting the next generation of talent, and using AI and innovation to support student success from recruitment to graduation.
Shaikha shared her perspective on:
The evolving landscape of STEM and aerospace in the UAE
What it takes to truly engage Gen Z learners
The critical role partnerships play in long-term student development
How higher education can align better with workforce needs
Whether you're in education, government, or industry, this one is worth a listen.
Learn more about how we support institutions here: https://lnkd.in/eNvsDQ88
New Episode Out Now – Featuring Jennifer Agatep from Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences
In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Agatep to explore how student recruitment and admissions are evolving in the healthcare education space—and what it takes to stay ahead.
Topics we dive into include:
- Navigating student engagement in a digital-first world
- Streamlining admissions using data and automation
- The changing expectations of today's learners
- How institutions can future-proof their recruitment and marketing strategies
Talk to Jay about how we can build AI systems to support Admissions, Retention and Recruitment
https://learn-first.ai/saasaiofficerprofile
We sat down with Steven to explore the evolving landscape of student admissions and retention in U.S. higher education.
In this episode:
What’s working—and what’s not—in modern student recruitment
How admissions teams are adapting to data, AI, and student behavior shifts
Why retention is now a shared responsibility across departments
The tools and strategies shaping the future of enrollment
Learn more about Learn First Below:
https://lnkd.in/eNvsDQ88
In this episode, we speak with Cassandra Schulz about the evolving landscape of student recruitment, admissions strategy, and the role of data and digital tools in education.
Topics covered include:
- Student engagement trends in a digital-first environment
- Effective strategies for improving admissions processes
- The future of marketing and communications in higher education
- How institutions can adapt to changing learner expectations
If you work in student recruitment, enrollment marketing, or EdTech strategy, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.Book a call with me below, if you want to have a chat:
https://lnkd.in/eNvsDQ88
#HigherEducation #StudentRecruitment #AdmissionsStrategy #EnrollmentMarketing #EdTech #EducationLeadership #DigitalRecruitment
Admissions, Retention & the Future of Higher Ed:
We sat down with Bruce Bunnick, Executive Director of Admissions at Lehigh University, to discuss the biggest challenges facing enrollment leaders today—from shifting student expectations to institutional strategies for improving retention.
We also dove into how AI and data are reshaping recruitment in U.S. higher education.
Learn more about Learn First Below:
https://learn-first.ai/saasaiofficerprofile
In this episode, we sit down with Shreyas Salve, Admissions Coordinator at CDI College, to explore what’s driving international student recruitment in Canada. We discuss digital marketing strategies, personalising admissions at scale, and how AI is shaping the future of student engagement and enrollment.
Speak with us at Learn First about how we can support you with automating your admissions and student recruitment processes
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://lnkd.in/eNvsDQ88
Just wrapped an insightful conversation with Coach A. Clark from Delta College. We talked all things student recruitment, admissions, and how vocational colleges are adapting to today’s learners. Aaron also shared his take on how AI could transform outreach and enrollment in the years ahead. A must-listen for anyone working in education or career training.
For those interested in enhancing student recruitment efforts and streamlining admissions processes, reach out to Learn First for valuable insights.
https://lnkd.in/eNvsDQ88
In this episode, we speak with Sviatoslav Voloshchak, International Admissions Manager at Midwestern Career College, about the evolving landscape of F-1 student recruitment. We explore how MCC attracts global learners, balances compliance with growth, leverages digital marketing, and where AI fits into the future of international admissions.
On this episode of #FEmediapodcast, we have a chat with Michael Burgoyne of
Insightful CTC. We discuss research on Ofsted in FE and overall quality improvement.
On this episode of #FEmediapodcast we have a chat with Phil Boyle of OLC (Europe) Ltd We discuss many of the most pressing issues affecting College higher education learner recruitment
On this weeks episode of the #FEmediapodcast, we do something different! Our first solo podcast with Jay himself, giving tips on marketing for #furthereducation
👉Follow our page for marketing tips - https://lnkd.in/gFfppFZw
Find out about how we can help you find more learners for your funded and commercial course by booking a meeting below:
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://lnkd.in/dU59JTJE
learnerrecruitment #furthereducation #educationmarketing #studentrecruitment #learnerengagment #coursesonline #marketing #marketingtips #socialmediamarketing #edtech #elearning
traineeships
On this weeks episode of the #FEmediapodcast, we have a chat with Julia Burrascano of Purlos. We discuss many of the most pressing issues affecting the #furthereducation sector today, let us know your thoughts!
We discussed the following topics:
- Purlos and how it can help the FE sector
- Learner retention during the 42 day period: key stats and main challenges
- Biggest challenges around student recruitment and around admissions
- How learner find, conversion rates and retention can be improved
- Opinions on FE and where the market is going/trends
You can find out more about Julia Burrascano and Purlos Below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-burrascano-255321152/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/purlos/
https://www.purlos.com/
👉Follow our page for marketing tips - https://lnkd.in/gFfppFZw
Find out about how we can help you find more learners for your funded and commercial course by booking a meeting below:
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://lnkd.in/dU59JTJE
learnerrecruitment #furthereducation #educationmarketing #studentrecruitment #learnerengagment #coursesonline #marketing #marketingtips #socialmediamarketing #edtech #elearning
traineeships
On this week's episode of the #FEmediapodcast, we have a chat Tom Burton of NOCN Group. A market-leading international Awarding Organisation (AO) specialising in the regulated UK and international qualifications, End Point Assessment, Access to Higher Education, assured short courses, SMART job cards, assessment services, consultancy, and research.
We discussed the following topics:
1 - How apprenticeships have been like in the past year with NOCN Group
2 - Opinions on the apprenticeship uptake being at 50%
3 - How will the recession affect the market?
4 - What have been the most popular/successful apprenticeships?
5 - Difficulties connecting training providers with employers
6 - Ofsted reports and how to improve
7 - Opinions on apprenticeship minimum wage
You can find out more about Tom Burton and NOCN Group Below:
https://www.nocn.org.uk/
https://lnkd.in/dG97Skw6
https://lnkd.in/dTEdNu9P
👉Follow our page for marketing tips - https://lnkd.in/gFfppFZw
Find out about how we can help you find more learners for your funded and commercial course by booking a meeting below:
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://lnkd.in/dU59JTJE
learnerrecruitment #furthereducation #educationmarketing #studentrecruitment #learnerengagment #coursesonline #marketing #marketingtips #socialmediamarketing #edtech #elearning
traineeships
On this weeks episode of the #FEmediapodcast, we have a chat with Isa Mutlib of BAME Apprenticeship Alliance. We discuss many of the most pressing issues affecting the #furthereducation sector today, let us know your thoughts!
You can find out more about Isa Mutlib and BAME Apprenticeship Alliance:
We discussed the following topics:
1 - Introduction about you and your experience in the FE sector (Discussion around BAME Apprenticeship Alliance)
2 - Current and past issues for you in the FE sector and your services
3 - BAME Apprenticeships and the current issues including the ‘middle class grab’
4 - Recovery after lockdowns
5 - Opinions on where FE is going
https://lnkd.in/dCZcWxza
https://lnkd.in/dseDvNzh
https://lnkd.in/d6RHQXTU
👉Speak With Us At Grow Social
If you need support with finding a consistent flow of new learners for commercial and funded courses at 50% off the usual cost, book a meeting below with one of the Grow Social team and we would be glad to help!
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://lnkd.in/g4zgt2Bj
learnerrecruitment #furthereducation #educationmarketing #studentrecruitment #learnerengagment #coursesonline #marketing #marketingtips #socialmediamarketing #edtech #elearning
traineeships
On this weeks episode of #FEmediapodcast we have a chat with Chantal Brown who currently works for Sandwell College. We discuss many of the most pressing issues affecting the #furthereducation sector today, let us know your thoughts!
We discussed the following topics:
1 - Introduction about you and your experience in the FE sector
2 - SEN in the FE sector
3 - Tells us more about transforming lives FE
4 - BAME representation in FE
5 - Where can people find you?
You can find out more about Chantal Brown and One Awards below:
https://lnkd.in/dURv2PHu
https://lnkd.in/dbXNJDZm
https://lnkd.in/dS74CBBc
**Grow Social - Contacts
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-george-16541a1a9/
If you need support with finding a consistent flow of new learners for commercial and funded courses at 50% off** the usual cost, book a meeting below with one of the Grow Social team and we would be glad to help!
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://partnerships.thegrowsocial.com/learnerrecruitmentservices-3883
On this weeks episode of #FEmediapodcast we have a chat with Abigail Gilbert who currently works for One awards. We discuss many of the most pressing issues affecting the #furthereducation sector today, let us know your thoughts!
We discussed the following topics:
- Introduction about you and your experience in the FE sector
- Access courses and their lack of attention
- The benefits of Access courses
- Marketing and Social media within FE
- Opinions on where HE is going
You can find out more about Abigail Gilbert and One Awards below:
https://lnkd.in/dCDhdw4h
https://lnkd.in/d2PXeadj
https://lnkd.in/dg3kPQJr
**Grow Social - Contacts
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-george-16541a1a9/
If you need support with finding a consistent flow of new learners for commercial and funded courses at 50% off** the usual cost, book a meeting below with one of the Grow Social team and we would be glad to help!
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://partnerships.thegrowsocial.com/learnerrecruitmentservices-3883
On this weeks episode of #FEmediapodcast we have a chat with Steve Latus who is currently the head of traineeships for Education Skills Funding Agency. We discuss many of the most pressing issues affecting the #furthereducation sector today, let us know your thoughts!
We discussed the following topics:
- Introduction about Steve, Nigel and David, with a brief discussion on your experiences in the FE sector
- What are traineeships?
- How diverse are traineeships?
- How are traineeships funded, what amount of investment has been made in traineeships?
- I have heard about the development of occupational traineeships, can you tell me what they are?
- Providers have felt that there has been a lack of support from the DWP, what are your thoughts on this?
- Providers feel like the kick starter scheme has clashed with the Traineeship programme, what are your thoughts? (Kickstarter vs Traineeship)
- What are your thoughts on the current and future Traineeship uptake?
- How can providers get the word out about Traineeships? (Marketing and Social media within FE)
- Final thoughts
You can find out more about Steve Latus and The Education Skills Funding Agency below:
https://lnkd.in/gB9idnFW
https://lnkd.in/dVgYfSa
https://lnkd.in/grJ4DJhj
**Grow Social - Contacts
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-george-16541a1a9/
If you need support with finding a consistent flow of new learners for commercial and funded courses at 50% off** the usual cost, book a meeting below with one of the Grow Social team and we would be glad to help!
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://partnerships.thegrowsocial.com/learnerrecruitmentservices-3883
On this weeks episode of #FEmediapodcast we have a chat with Elizabeth Draper who is currently working in The English Association and is part of the JoyFE community. We discuss many of the most pressing issues affecting the #furthereducation sector today, let us know your thoughts!
We discussed the following topics:
- Introduction about you and your experience in the FE sector
- The English Association and your role
- JOY FE
- The GCSE resit system
- Marketing and Social media within FE
You can find out more about Elizabeth, The English Association and JoyFE below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-draper-a8ba6271/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/englishassoc/
https://twitter.com/JoyfulFE
**Grow Social - Contacts
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-george-16541a1a9/
If you need support with finding a consistent flow of new learners for commercial and funded courses at 50% off** the usual cost, book a meeting below with one of the Grow Social team and we would be glad to help!
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://partnerships.thegrowsocial.com/learnerrecruitmentservices-3883
On this weeks episode of #FEmediapodcast we have a chat with Lucy Hunte who is currently the National Programme Manager for Apprenticeships at Health Education England. We discuss many of the most pressing issues affecting the #furthereducation sector today, let us know your thoughts!
We discussed the following topics:
- What do you feel some of the most important issues are regarding the FE sector and health education?
- Tell us more about Health Education England?
- How important is educating parents and how do you guys go about doing it?
- Tell us more about how you are working on Social mobility? (Challenges and successes)
- What are some of the barriers for young people that come from disadvantaged backgrounds?
- What is the BAME participation like and how are you working to reach young people?
- What importance do you feel social media plays in reaching young people for Health Education England?
You can find out more about Lucy and Health Education England below:
https://linktr.ee/nhshee
https://lnkd.in/ePv9Uy7F
https://lnkd.in/eESsHR8W
**Grow Social - Contacts
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-george-16541a1a9/
If you need support with finding a consistent flow of new learners for commercial and funded courses at 50% off** the usual cost, book a meeting below with one of the Grow Social team and we would be glad to help!
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://partnerships.thegrowsocial.com/learnerrecruitmentservices-3883
Description
Cerian is currently Head of Technical Education at ETF. The Education and Training Foundation (ETF) is the sector-owned, government-backed workforce development body for the Further Education and Training sector.
Our mission is to support the continuing transformation of our country’s technical and vocational education system by ensuring the sector has world-class teachers, trainers, assessors and leaders. This leads to ever-improving learner outcomes, a better-skilled workforce and a stronger economy, country and society.
We do this by improving, driving and championing the quality of the sector’s leadership, teaching and training through:
- Setting and promoting professional standards, awarding QTLS and ATS, and, managing the Society for Education and Training, the professional membership body for the sector
- Supporting the sector through reform and change
- Leading professional and workforce development for teachers, trainers, assessors, leaders and governors
- Being the home of independent, impartial and comprehensive workforce data and research
We discussed the following topics:
- What do you feel some of the most important issues are regarding the FE sector and careers employment
- How employers can be supported with staff development
- Cerian Tells about her role and how she supports the sector.
- What role do you think social media play in reaching young people, are FE doing this well
- What is your number one tip for FE educators who want to improve the way they connect with and support young people
You can find out more about Cerian and The Education and Training Foundation below:
https://lnkd.in/e4AZntNt
https://lnkd.in/eBv-vWcJ
https://lnkd.in/ef2wnHif
**Grow Social - Contacts
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-george-16541a1a9/
If you need support with finding a consistent flow of new learners for commercial and funded courses at 50% off** the usual cost, book a meeting below with one of the Grow Social team and we would be glad to help!
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://partnerships.thegrowsocial.com/learnerrecruitmentservices-3883
On this weeks episode of the #FEmediapodcast we have a chat with Robbie Bryant of Open Study College. We discuss many of the most pressing issues affecting the #furthereducation sector today, let us know your thoughts!
You can find out more about Robbie and Open Study College below:
https://lnkd.in/ePhxjHvD
https://lnkd.in/eiXsaWEq
https://lnkd.in/eX9Zdque
We discussed the following topics:
- introduction about you and your experience in the FE sector
- Current and past issues for you in the FE sector and your services
- Recovery after lockdowns
- Marketing and Social media within FE
- Opinions on where FE is going
**Grow Social
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-george-16541a1a9/
If you need support with finding a consistent flow of new learners for commercial and funded courses at 50% off** the usual cost, book a meeting below with one of the Grow Social team and we would be glad to help!
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://partnerships.thegrowsocial.com/learnerrecruitmentservices-3883
Description
Ruth is currently Manor Property Group Education Director, working on the national rollout of 160 Qdos Career Hubs. Ruth has 25 years of experience in professional services and education, holding positions including Principal and CEO in Further Education. Ruth previously set up and ran a national education charity, founded by Lord Baker, now supporting a network of 20+ industry-led Career Colleges across the UK. Ruth has a passion for applying business principles and regional partnerships to educational ventures, to ensure their long-term sustainability. Ruth is an Honorary Fellow of UCL Institute of Education and holds several voluntary positions in support of education.
We discussed the following topics:
- What do you feel some of the most important issues are regarding the FE sector and careers employment?
- How can young people be supported post-results week?
- Tell us more about the Qdos app and how it can help young people and parents make the right choices?
- What role do you think social media play in reaching young people, are FE doing this well?
- What is your number one tip for young people and parents looking to get their children into careers, FE or apprenticeships?
- What is your number one tip for FE educators who want to improve the way they connect with and support young people?
You can find out more about Ruth and the QDOS Careers App below:
Free Qdos Careers App is available on all Apple and Android devices.
Apple App Store link from your iPhone or iPad is:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id1524921452
Google Store, for Android devices, using this link:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hongwei.careersapp
@QdosHub
@RuthGilbertCEO
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janelliscareers/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirsty-steer/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthgilbert1/
**Grow Social - Contacts
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-george-16541a1a9/
If you need support with finding a consistent flow of new learners for commercial and funded courses at 50% off** the usual cost, book a meeting below with one of the Grow Social team and we would be glad to help!
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://partnerships.thegrowsocial.com/learnerrecruitmentservices-3883
In today's podcast session I sat down with Tom Burton of NOCN Group. A market-leading international Awarding Organisation (AO) specialising in regulated UK and international qualifications, End Point Assessment, Access to Higher Education, assured short courses, SMART job cards, assessment services, consultancy, and research.
We discussed the following topics:
- What do you feel some of the most important issues are regarding the FE sector?
- What advice and guidance do you feel the apprentices need before choosing an apprenticeship?
- What are your thoughts on the BAME Apprentichsip uptake and how can these issues be solved? (Middle-class grab)
- What is your number one tip for both apprenticeship providers and educators?
You can find out more about Tom and the NOCN Group below:
If you need support with finding a consistent flow of new learners for commercial and funded courses at 50% off the usual cost, book a meeting below with one of the Grow Social team and we would be glad to help!
BOOK A CALL BELOW
https://partnerships.thegrowsocial.com/learnerrecruitmentservices-3883