United Kingdom: government launches push to “revolutionise” training post-Covid

Following its initial announcements in September last year (see article n°12155), the UK government plans to table its Skills and Post-16 Education Bill in parliament on 18 May. The legislative push, which aims to revolutionise education and training in the UK in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, was unveiled in the Queen’s Speech on 11 May. Under the text, employers will organise government-funded training programmes in partnership with education providers and will assess their skill needs, particularly in sectors such as construction, digital, clean energy and manufacturing. The law should also provide for flexible student loans, which will be accessible for adults. The loan entitlement will offer loans covering four years of study, which do not necessarily have to be used consecutively, and can be used across an individual’s lifetime. According to UK prime minister Boris Johnson, these changes “are the rocket fuel that we need to level up this country and ensure equal opportunities for all”. “We know that having the right skills and training is the route to better, well-paid jobs,” he adds. Alongside these announcements the so-called Lifetime Skills Guarantee was launched in April, as planned. This measure allows adults who have not achieved A-level or equivalent qualifications to take up free courses to boost their skills, in areas that are judged as essential by employers. There are currently 400 qualifications available.