Bedford FE teacher on why male role models in education matter more than ever

The release of Netflix’s Adolescence has only sharpened the nation’s focus on the issue, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer calling out the “emerging and growing problem” of toxic online influences on teenage boys.

Nationally, 59% of parents say it is important to have an FE teacher of the same gender as their children, while 1 in 5 believe there is a shortage of male role models in the FE teaching. Against this backdrop, we would like to offer a timely opportunity to spotlight the vital role Further Education (FE) teachers play in providing positive role models for young men

One such figure is Christian Núñez Fuentes, an FE teacher at South Essex College in Bedford, who has spent 5 years teaching Web development and Website design. The FE sector provides training for learners aged 16+, reaching young men at a prime time in their development from boys to adults. Christian's story is a powerful reminder that FE teachers are not just educators - they are mentors, guides, and role models who help shape the values and aspirations of the next generation.

Christian Núñez Fuentes, a Further Education (FE) teacher, has been teaching Web development for 5 years. He reflects on the impact positive male educators can play in shaping young lives:

“I know how important it is for people to have strong role models. When I’m teaching, I aim to be more than just an FE teacher. I aspire to be someone who listens, supports and helps learners develop the skills they need to navigate the challenges they may face in their future careers.

Working with learners from all walks of life has broadened my perspective. It’s a two-way exchange: I bring life and industry experience into my teaching, and my students teach me just as much in return.

Being an FE teacher suits me perfectly. It gives me the flexibility to grow professionally while staying connected to the digital and IT industry .

Role models in Further Education don’t just teach skills, they build confidence, empathy, and resilience. That’s the kind of impact I hope to have, helping learners feel capable, and ready to delve into the world of work”

With over 1.8 million learners in FE across the UK, and a growing need for skilled professionals in sectors like engineering, construction, and digital, the presence of male educators who can model resilience, empathy, and purpose is more important than ever.

The Department for Education’s Teach in Further Education (FE) campaign is calling on those with industry experience to teach in FE by sharing their skills and training the next generation of workers in their field.

FE teachers are needed across many subject areas, with particular demand for professionals from the following sectors: Health and Social Care, Construction, Engineering and Manufacturing, Digital and IT.

Practical experience gained from industry is highly sought after and prior teaching qualifications or an academic degree isn’t always needed to start teaching in further education. Teacher training can be completed on the job, meaning FE teachers can begin earning straight away.

There are full-time, part-time and flexible contracts available, allowing FE teachers to balance their hours alongside their current job or personal responsibilities.

To find out more about the opportunities available to teach in FE visit: Home page - Teach in further education - Department for Education