Adult learning pays

The Association of Colleges' (AoC) annual conference has always provided a welcome opportunity to catch up with colleagues from across the sector, reflect and share ideas about how we can help make society stronger together - and this year was no exception.

The Post-16 education and skills white paper was an obvious focal point for debate. Some are apprehensive about yet more policy change; more are hopeful that it brings new opportunities. Either way, it is surely a positive thing that in recent years all the main political parties have chosen to speak about their support for further education when seeking to gain the support of the electorate.

One of the topics covered in the white paper is adult education. There are promises to review the adult essential skills offer, a commitment to a lifelong learning entitlement and new flexible training routes. There does however remain widespread and growing concern about how we resource adult education in this country.  

In an effort to play its part in reframing the debate, the AoC used this year's conference to launch its latest campaign, Adult Learning Pays. The argument is a simple one: adult education is a strategic investment. With greater support and resourcing, employers will benefit from a more adaptable workforce, communities will grow stronger, and society will become more inclusive.

The campaign website is packed with information and resources, designed to help us all to understand and explain to others why adult education is a powerful tool for personal growth, economic resilience, and social cohesion.