Christopher Fraser, MP for South West Norfolk, in the House of Commons called on the Government to admit that its pledge to prioritise “the most beneficial learning” should be equated with cutting Adult Education courses.
At the end of last year, the Education and Skills Select Committee published its Fourth Report into Further Education. The Report found compelling evidence that certain types of adult learning are being undermined by current funding priorities. The Report also said that the limited funding available meant “difficult choices” had to be made about what was paid for by the Government, by employers and by individual learners. Further to this, the Learning and Skills Council in England has reported recently that there has been a reduction of almost one million adult learners. Speaking afterwards Christopher Fraser added:
“I am pleased that the Minister has assured the House of the Government’s commitment to Adult Education, but his words do not fit with the facts. According to the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education, one in three adult learning places may be lost in the next three years. The cuts to Adult Education courses have been blamed on a shift in priorities, with the Government focussing more on filling skills gaps in the economy. Whilst I am committed to equipping young people with the key skills they need to find work, I would ask the Government to ensure that this is not pursued at the expense of Adult Education courses.
Adult Education contributes positively to our economy, our communities and to the well-being of individuals who join courses. Unfortunately, more and more Colleges across the country are finding it necessary to cut courses due to these changes in Government funding; this means less choice for learners and more worryingly, means many teaching staff are threatened with job losses. I want to ensure that Adult Education remains a core element of the Government’s education policy. At the moment, this is sadly not the case.” |