In this report, the Lifelong Education Commission seeks to explore the emerging role of microcredentials in modular learning and how a common understanding can enable alternative pathways to higher level qualifications in the UK.

The UK Government’s focus on modular, flexible, lifelong learning is designed to address the skills needed to drive higher levels of productivity. Microcredentials could be an important part of this approach, allowing employees and businesses to engage in bite sized learning that is targeted on specific industry needs. Their short, focused design could enable an agile response to current and future skills gaps. As jobs and the demand for skills continue to change, people will continually need to re-train, re-skill or redeploy to remain economically competitive.