WIREDGOV

Lifelong Learning UK welcomes the government's announcement of a £20m plan to support informal adult learning. This is particularly meaningful at a time of economic challenges and when supporting all forms of training and education is more important than ever.

David Hunter, CEO of Lifelong Learning UK, says: “People who may have struggled to gain qualifications in the past can – and frequently do – get back into learning through recreational courses. In my former role as an adult education co-ordinator in Belfast I saw first-hand how effective learning programmes in the community can be - particularly in encouraging adults to consider new skills. So, for example, an initial course in ballroom dancing might lead to someone pursuing a technical qualification as their confidence develops.”

“When it comes to adult learning, it’s as much a question of self-belief as academic ability,” added Mr. Hunter.

“As the Secretary of State, John Denham, puts it, ‘Learning improves quality of life’. Lifelong learning in its many forms offers real help for individuals and employers as they seek ways to withstand the current crisis, and to drive fresh innovation in preparation for better times.”

For media information, please contact:
Julie Fourcade/Sian Smith - 3 Monkeys Communications
lluk@3-monkeys.co.uk 
020 7009 3100

Media Relations at Lifelong Learning UK
mediarelations@lluk.org

 
Laura Vergani - Lifelong Learning UK
Lauravergani@lluk.org 
020 7936 5741

About Lifelong Learning UK

· Lifelong Learning UK is one of 25 Sector Skills Councils that make up the Skills for Business
Network - each one is an employer-led, independent organisation.
· Lifelong Learning UK aims to encourage teachers, trainers, librarians and other staff in postcompulsory education to gain new skills and qualifications so that they offer a better service to young people, adult learners, employers and the wider community
· Lifelong Learning UK also promotes lifelong learning as a career so that employers in the sector have less difficulty recruiting and retaining staff
· In addition to developing sector-wide occupational standards and qualifications frameworks, Lifelong Learning UK also produces labour market intelligence so that lifelong learning employers can identify skills gaps and shortages among their own workforce.
· For more information please visit www.lluk.org