The Future of Lifelong Learning

The new Labour Government has pledged to be mission-driven, aiming to foster growth. The Education and Skills agenda will play a big part in that aim, as evident by the launching of Skills England and by having one Minister (The Rt Hon Jacqui Smith) responsible for Higher Education, Further Education, and Skills. We strongly believe that a focus on making the UK a truly lifelong learning nation – from school to retirement - is essential for success. As we navigate the new policy initiatives and Labour’s approach, we will be discussing:

• What role should employers play in training/retraining as well as in contributing to the skills funding system?
• How can the apprenticeship system be reformed to offer bigger value to even more learners?
• How can modularisation and flexible learning become ‘business as usual’ on an integrated tertiary system?
• How do we ensure quality of qualifications, degrees, and skills provision?

Speakers:

• Prof. René Koglbauer, Dean of Lifelong Learning and Professional Practice, Newcastle University
• Stephen Smith, Skills Lead, Cadent Gas
• Helena Vine, Lead Policy Officer (England), QAA
• Amanda Washbrook, Deputy Principal, West Herts College
• Andy Forbes, Executive Director, LEI (Moderator)