Education is for Everyone: Investing in Further Education and Learning Throughout Life
Originally published by UK Liberal Democrats
There is nothing more important than education.
Education opens up opportunities, shows us what we are capable of and challenges our preconceptions. When education is accessible it can be a great equaliser, however with cuts from 2010 then it is no longer fit for purpose.
Our economy is changing. It is crucial that our education system evolves at the same rate. Many people face redundancy with their skillset no longer valued in an age of increasing automation. We believe this policy will help everyone from 16-60 to adapt to the world of work in 2019.
People of all ages are in colleges, or apprenticeships building knowledge in a whole range of areas, from set design to machine learning for the ministry of defence.
But with many adult learners struggling to meet the cost of education and understandably reluctant to take out loans with work, mortgage and/or family responsibilities - education is simply out of reach.
We demand better.
The right to an education, to learn new skills, to nurture creativity and to develop one's talents is for everyone of every age.
At our Autumn Conference we were excited to pass the Education for Everyone Policy. We are proud to support learning throughout life.
This policy calls for:
- Discounted bus travel for 16-21 year olds as they go to school, college or work
- To continue to push for greater quality and quantity of apprenticeships
- Society to value individuals no matter what their skillset
- Extending the Teachers Pay Grant to give more teachers a pay rise
- The right to take time off or flexible working in order to undertake approved education or training
Education is for everyone no matter what life stage they are in.
The Liberal Democrats believe these commitments are key to building a fair society for everyone and this motion is how we will build it.
To read the motion in full click here: