This paper provides a reflective focus on the concept of change to the professional identity of FE lecturers. Traditional perceptions of FE staff as vocational specialists are contested and the emergence of a new professional with an extended professionality is discussed. The changes analysed deal with the emergence of the HE in FE sector and the need for lecturers and management to engage with a research ethos to support the development of the new professionalism. Models of research are discussed and barriers to their implementation are considered. Finally there is a consideration of the possibilities and challenges reflective practice and action research offer as starting point methodologies for novitiate researchers. (Contains 1 table.)