WIREDGOV

"Thursday 17 September 2009 saw the publication of Learning Through Life, an independent inquiry into the future for lifelong learning.

We're delighted that this excellent report provides a holistic view of the future for lifelong learning, and a strategic response to the current changing context. The report recognises the rich spread of learners, of all ages, who are learning at various levels and in different settings - from colleges through to work-based learning and in the community.

It also emphasises the impact that a more diverse range of learners has on the social and economic benefits of lifelong learning. This involves encouraging greater responsiveness to learners, literacy and numeracy, and the development of a credit-based system, which we are currently undertaking.

The closer link between libraries and FE colleges, proposed in the report, will strengthen important local roles. FE colleges are involved in ongoing collaboration by continuing to reach a wide group of learners and by working with a variety of partners across the lifelong learning sector.

Underpinning our understanding of how this sector is going to be shaped is the importance of workforce data collection - what it means, and how we use it to identify skills gaps and shortages, as well as learners needs. We welcome the opportunity to contribute to a more intelligent use of research.

We will continue to support the lifelong learning sector in developing the skills for twenty-first century learning professionals, and will be discussing the major issues at our annual conference on 8 December 2008."

David Hunter and Sir David Melville
Chief Executive and Chair of Lifelong Learning UK