The future of adult learning is under threat. There could be as many as one million fewer adult learning places over the next two years and there's already been a drop of 23% of people over 60 learning.

 

Yet, because of the falling birth rate, the vast majority of jobs in the future - two in three of the next decade - will need to be filled by adults and more and more of tomorrow's jobs will require higher skills. Learning also contributes to people's health and self-esteem and brings communities together. Adult learning is not an option - it's a necessity.

The National Institute of Adult Continuing Education is to hold a “Big Conversation” about adult learning. We are calling on learners, teachers, lecturers, college staff, and other interested groups to consider the current challenges and what should be done about it. In particular we want to know what you think about:

•  What principles should determine how limited amounts of public funding are best used?

•  What should employers pay for?

• How much should individuals be expected to contribute to their learning?

•  What has the government got right and where it is going wrong?

Please report back to us about the issues affecting you and we will submit a dossier of evidence, opinion and analysis to the government. Email: bigconversation@niace.org.uk or call 0116 204 4200 and make your voice heard.