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{{Short description|English educational strategy}}
{{Short description|English educational strategy}}
'''Skills for Life''' is a national lifelong learning strategy in England for improving adult skills, designed to help learners develop their reading, writing, maths, technical, and digital skills. It provides universal free education and training; including courses in digital, numeracy and transferable skills; traineeships; apprenticeships; and vocational qualifications for all adults in [[further education colleges]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Skills for Life training and apprenticeship courses |url=https://skillsforlife.campaign.gov.uk/ |access-date=2023-10-23 |website=Skills for Life}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Guide to the higher technical education provider growth fund |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/higher-technical-education-provider-growth-fund/guide-to-the-higher-technical-education-provider-growth-fund |access-date=2023-10-23 |website=Gov.uk |language=en}}</ref>
{{Multiple issues|
{{Advert|date=November 2010}}
{{more footnotes|date=May 2018}}
}}


The courses and qualifications provided by training providers can also be provided by employees and businesses to upskill their workforce, and can be taken in Skill Bootcamps at colleges and universities throughout England. It is linked with the [[National Careers Service]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-04-11 |title=Skills for Life |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/skills-for-life |access-date=2023-10-23 |website=Gov.uk |language=en}}</ref>
'''Skills for Life''' was the national strategy in [[England]] for improving adult [[literacy]], language ([[English for Speakers of Other Languages|ESOL]]) and [[numeracy]] skills and was established as part of the wider national Skills Strategy to increase the numbers of young people and adults with adequate skills. The strategy was launched by the Prime Minister, [[Tony Blair]], in March 2001.


== Training courses ==
The Skills for Life strategy set out how the Government aimed to reach its Public Service Agreement (PSA) target to improve "the basic skill levels of 2.25 million adults between the launch of Skills for Life in 2001 and 2010, with a milestone of 1.5 million in 2007". This PSA target was part of the wider objective to "tackle the adult skills gaps", by increasing the number of adults with the skills required for employability and progression to higher levels of training. The rationale behind the Skills for Life strategy was thus, firstly, to lift basic skills in the face of the changing nature of the workplace and the increased complexity of traditional jobs and secondly, to make Britain a more equal society and ‘close the gap’ by addressing issues that include area and neighbourhood deprivation, and educational attainment.
Training cources include classroom-based, on-the-job, online, and short cources. The full list can be found on the Skills for Life website.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Courses Archive |url=https://skillsforlife.campaign.gov.uk/courses/ |access-date=2023-10-23 |website=Skills for Life}}</ref>
*'''Free courses for jobs'''
Courses linked to a large range of sectors, including accounting, digital, health and social care, construction, early years, catering, agriculture and more. Available for adults who are unemployed, earn below the National Living Wage annually (£20,319), or do not already have a Level 3 qualification.


* '''Multiply'''
The Leitch Review, ([http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/media/523/43/leitch_finalreport051206.pdf ''Prosperity for all in the global economy - world class skills'', Dec 2006]) commissioned by the Government, indicated the next likely ''Skills for Life'' target. The Review recommended that the UK should commit to becoming a world leader in skills by 2020 with a basic skills objective "for 95% of adults to achieve the basic skills of functional literacy and numeracy" by 2020 (a total of 7.4 million adult attainments over the period).


Multiply is a government-funded programme to help adults improve their numeracy skills.
== Background ==


* '''Skills Bootcamps'''
In 1998 the Government asked Sir [[Claus Moser, Baron Moser|Claus Moser]], Chairman of the Basic Skills Agency, to produce a report on how to "tackle the vast basic skills problem in this country". The Moser Report ([http://www.literacytrust.org.uk/socialinclusion/adults/moser.html ''A Fresh Start – improving literacy and numeracy'']) was published in 1999. Drawing on the findings of the 1996 [http://www.oecd.org/education/innovation-education/adultliteracy.htm OECD] survey of adult literacy/numeracy skills (IALS: International Adult Literacy Survey), the Moser Report made comparisons with other European countries, notably Sweden, and claimed that 20% of adults in Britain lacked functional basic skills, linking these low levels of literacy (and numeracy) with low earnings, poor job opportunities, high unemployment, poor housing poor health, depression and imprisonment. However, it should be acknowledged that the measurement of literacy underpinning understandings of literacy 'levels' in adult populations is contested, not only by literacy scholars in the UK but also in other countries in the OECD, eg, Canada, Australia, France where similar surveys of adult literacy skills were conducted.


Skills Bootcamps are developed in partnership with local employers, providers and authorities to help fill skills gaps and vacancies in local areas. Skills Bootcamps are designed to be flexible. Hundreds of courses are available in digital skills (such as data engineering, software development or digital marketing); technical skills (like construction or engineering); and green skills (including electric vehicle and heat pump technology).
The Government responded by launching the ''Skills for Life'' strategy. When the strategy was launched in 2001, free literacy, language and numeracy training was made available to all adults without a Level 2 qualification (equivalent to a GCSE at A* - C). Initially, three curriculum areas were introduced: Literacy, Numeracy and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).


* '''Returnerships'''
== Scale of the problem ==


Returnerships bring together training, skills, and support opportunities for adults aged 50 and over. There are a range of free and flexible courses available to help you get the job they want, gain the skills employers need and boost their confidence in the workplace.
As part of the ''Skills for Life'' strategy, a nationwide survey of basic skills ([http://www.dfes.gov.uk/research/data/uploadfiles/RR490.pdf ''Skills for Life Needs and Impact Survey'']) was published in 2003. Evidence again was largely taken from the OECD survey, IALS (International Adult Literacy Survey). While many literacy scholars eg, those attached to the Literacy Research Centre at Lancaster University, were cautious of the figures,<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Hamilton|first1=Mary|last2=Barton|first2=David|date=2000|title=The International Adult Literacy Survey: what does it really measure?|journal=International Review of Education|publisher=UNESCO|volume=46|issue=5|pages=377–389|doi=10.1023/A:1004125413660|bibcode=2000IREdu..46..377H|s2cid=142660060 }}</ref> the survey showed that of the adult population aged 16–65 in England:
*5.2 million (16%) have literacy skills below Level 1 (equivalent to a GCSE at D – G)
*15 million (46%) have numeracy skills below Level 1 (equivalent to a GCSE at D – G)
*Only 18% achieved Level 2 in both literacy and numeracy (equivalent to a GCSE at A* - C).


* '''Digital – Essential Skills'''
Estimates placed the cost to the country of poor basic skills at £10 billion a year. This took account of the effect of lower incomes, reduced productivity, poorer health and the cost of benefits and welfare services. The cost of poor numeracy and literacy skills for a company employing 1,000 people was estimated at £626,000 per year. For organisations employing 51-100 employees the cost was estimated to be nearer £108,000.{{Citation needed|date=November 2010}}


Those with no experience using computers and other digital devices or have low digital skills, you can study an Digital Essential Skills qualification for free. These courses will give learners the essential digital understanding you need for work and everyday life, such as using a computer or other digital devices, and staying safe online.
Higher earnings are correlated to good basic skills ([http://www.dfes.gov.uk/research/data/uploadfiles/RR490.pdf ''Skills for Life Needs and Impact Survey'']) On average:
*Those with Level 2 numeracy skills earned an additional £4,000 per year
*Those with Level 2 literacy skills an extra £2,000.


* '''Numeracy – Essential Skills'''
Further analysis of non-graduates published in 2006{{Citation needed|date=November 2010}}, showed that three years after finishing a numeracy course, people were earning on average 13% more than those who had not been on such a course. Attending a literacy course generally has less impact on earnings.


If a leaner is 19 and over and does not have a GCSE in maths at grade 4 (or equivalent), they can study and take a range of qualifications for free. These courses will help them gain the numeracy skills needed for work and everyday life and are recognised by employers. Entry level courses are available for complete beginners or those with low numeracy skills.
== Qualifications ==


* '''English – Essential Skills (including ESOL)'''
The [[Qualifications and Curriculum Authority]] (QCA) and the [[Department for Children, Schools and Families]] published the first national standards for adult literacy and numeracy in 2000. These standards formed the basis of the core curricula and national qualifications in literacy and numeracy at Entry Level, Level 1, and Level 2.


If a leaner is aged 19 and over and does not have a GCSE in English at grade C (or equivalent), they can study an English course for free. English courses can improve communication skills, helping progress into work and everyday life. All courses lead to a recognised certificate, whether it is an entry-level course, or a level 1 or 2 course (equivalent to GCSE).
The following qualifications, achieved by adult learners, aged 16 years and older, count towards the ''Skills for Life'' target:
*Adult literacy and numeracy certificates (based on the 2000 national standards)
*Key Skills qualifications in 'Communication' and 'Application of Number'
*GCSE Maths and English


* '''Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)'''
== Objectives ==


Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are specialist technical courses developed with employers and delivered by industry experts. The first HTQs, focussing on digital sector subjects like cyber security or software development, began teaching in September 2022. New qualifications in health & science, and construction, begin teaching from September 2023, with more sectors planned. By completing an HTQ, you will achieve a Level 4 or 5 qualification in your subject area.
The ''Skills for Life'' strategy had one over-riding target ('''A''') and four key delivery objectives ('''B-E'''):


* '''Apprenticeships'''
A. '''PSA target''': to improve the basic skills levels of 2.25 million adults between the launch of Skills for Life in 2001 and 2010, with an interim target of 1.5 million adults by 2007


There are hundreds of apprenticeships to choose from in a wide range of different occupations, from data science to business or construction. Apprenticeships are available from level 2 (equivalent to GCSEs) to more advanced apprenticeships that go up to degree level.
B. '''Learner and employer engagement''': to engage and increase participation of young people and adults from priority groups in literacy, language and numeracy learning


* '''The Skills Toolkit'''
C. '''Ensuring capacity''': to improve the planning and funding of literacy, language and numeracy provision so that learning provision is effective and well co-ordinated


The Skills Toolkit is a range of free, high-quality online courses designed to fit the learner. Using the Skills Toolkit will help you build up their skills, boost CVs and progress in work. All courses on The Skills Toolkit are free and have been developed by leading providers like Google, the [[Open University|The Open University]], and Cisco.
D. '''Improving quality''': to improve standards and quality in teaching and learning in literacy, language and numeracy and to remodel and professionalise the Skills for Life workforce.


== Financial support ==
E. '''Improving achievement and progression''': to improve outcomes in literacy, language and numeracy provision and progression onto further learning and to assess the impact on social inclusion and economic outcomes.
While most courses are free, adults can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to help with the costs of a course at a college or training provider in England.


If you’re aged 19 or over, on a further education course and facing financial hardship, there is also the Learner Support. Learner Support can help pay for things you need to attend your course or study that are not covered by your course fees.
'''Target groups'''
* Unemployed people and benefit claimants
* Jobseekers
* Prisoners and those supervised in the community
* Public sector employees
* Low-skilled people in employment
* Young adults
* Other groups at risk of exclusion
* Parents
* People who live in disadvantaged communities


== Gremlins ==
== See also ==


* [[T Level|T levels]]
A national "Get On" media campaign with a national helpline encouraged adults to overcome their fears of learning and "get rid of their gremlins". The campaign was part of a tradition of recruiting adults via broadcasting media, [[On the Move (TV series)|pioneered by the BBC]] in the early 1970s.
* [[Further education]]
<!-- Missing image removed: [[Image:certificate geton.jpg]] -->
* [[National Careers Service]]

* [[National Apprenticeship Service]]
== Progress ==
* [[Lifelong learning]]

Between the launch of the strategy in 2001 and 2008, 5.7 million adults took up 12 million Skills for Life learning opportunities with 2,276,000 learners achieving their first Skills for Life qualification in literacy, language or numeracy. (Figures are for June 2008.){{Citation needed|date=November 2010}} This means the 2010 target for 2.25m achievements was met two years early.

== Key organisations involved in the Skills for Life strategy ==

'''The Skills for Life Strategy Unit''', based in the [[Department for Children, Schools and Families]], was responsible overall for driving forward the ''Skills for Life'' strategy and ensuring efforts to improve basic skills are well co-ordinated. The Unit's priorities included:
* Improving the standards in and quality of teaching and learning
* Ensuring that provision is effectively planned and funded
* Managing the transition of responsibility for the delivery of work to partner organisations and the ongoing risks that this could pose to delivery
* Ensuring that provision is accessible to those from priority groups
* Engaging employers and continuing the development of high quality workplace learning
* Promoting the take up of numeracy qualifications and learning
* Improving the analysis of performance to highlight our fundamental role in the long term
skills agenda being considered as part of the Leitch Review.

[https://web.archive.org/web/20100807154151/http://www.lsc.gov.uk/ The Learning and Skills Council (LSC)] was the chief delivery partner, which through its network of 9 regional and 47 local councils was responsible for the planning and funding of post-16 vocational education and training. The LSC led responsibility for delivering the adult skills PSA target. The LSC had responsibility for offender learning, and [[Jobcentre Plus]] clients.

The [[Learning and Skills Improvement Service]] (LSIS) was created by the Government as a component of the Learning and Skills Success for All programme, and following a merger between the Quality Improvement Agency and the Centre for Excellence in Leadership. The service aimed to guide improvements in the Further Education (FE) sector.

''Skills for Life'' was inspected against the common inspection framework by the Inspectorates: the [http://www.ali.gov.uk Adult Learning Inspectorate (ALI)] and [http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/ OfSTED.]

[http://www.qca.org.uk/ The Qualification and Curriculum Authority (QCA)] led on developing new qualifications and the associated standards and assessment models. It worked with Awarding Bodies to ensure new qualifications were embedded.

[[CfBT Education Trust]] was a major contributor to the Government's Skills for Life strategy to raise the quality of teaching and learning in adult literacy, numeracy and language (ESOL) provision since 2001. CfBT developed Skills for Life materials for Embedded Learning, supported Key Skills Support, and Subject Learning Coaches programmes, managed the Supporting Dyslexic Learners in Different Contexts programme, and managed the Skills for Life Quality Initiative programme on behalf of LSC. It went on to lead on the Skills for Life Improvement Programme on behalf of LSIS, ran the Sussex Skills for Life Development Centre, and conducted regular research on aspects of Skills for Life.

[http://www.nrdc.org.uk/ A National Research and Development Centre for Adult Literacy and Numeracy (NRDC)] was set up as a centre dedicated to conducting research into adult literacy, numeracy, ESOL and ICT. It was established and funded by the [http://www.dfes.gov.uk/ DfES] and was a partnership between the [https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ioe/departments-and-centres/centres/centre-language-literacy-and-numeracy-research-practice Institute of Education] in London, The [http://wp.lancs.ac.uk/literacy-research-centre/about-us/ Lancaster University Literacy Research Centre], and [https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/education Sheffield University].

== Key initiatives and resources ==

A number of initiatives were developed to support the Skills for Life strategy and its "whole organization" approach. When the coalition government came to power in 2010, many of these initiatives came to an end or their functions were transferred to other agencies.

[http://www.excellencegateway.org.uk/sfl/ The Excellence Gateway] included a new Skills for Life area which rationalised and brought together legacy Skills for Life websites and existing LSIS Skills for Life programme websites. These websites included the Tools Library, Embedded Learning Portal and Supporting Dyslexic Learners. The area enabled the resources across all the previous websites to be organised and presented in ways which meet the needs of sector staff.

[http://www.excellencegateway.org.uk/sflcurriculum/ A revised Skills for Life core curriculum] was developed by LSIS in the form of an interactive online tool that:
* Promoted flexible and creative use of the curriculum content in a variety of learning contexts, including embedded learning;
* Enhanced content and resources with additional guidance, exemplification and vocational material;
* Provided tools and features that will enable practitioners, including the wider embedded-learning audience, to create effective personal learning experiences; and
* Provided an online community where ideas and innovation can be shared and developed.

[[Train to Gain]] offered skills advice and business needs with training providers. The service, led by the LSC, was designed to enable adults to achieve a first full Level 2 qualification and to improve their basic literacy and numeracy skills.

[http://www.sflip.org.uk/ The Skills for Life Improvement Programme] built on previous initiatives making best use of people, systems and resources to deliver the Skills for Life Strategy. The Improvement Programme, delivered on behalf of LSIS by [http://www.cfbt.com/ CfBT Education Trust] and partners, was designed to support creative change in a wide range of self-improving organisations operating in a variety of different settings.

[http://www.move-on.org.uk/ Move On Up] was a national project funded by the [[Department for Children, Schools and Families]] and delivered by ''Skills for Life'' company, [http://www.tribalgroup.co.uk/ Tribal.] The project aims to help adults to brush up their skills and gain the National Certificate in Adult Literacy or Numeracy.

[https://www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise BBC Skillswise] was an interactive adult literacy and numeracy resource from the BBC for tutors and learners, with a range of factsheets, worksheets and quizzes.

BBC raw was an interactive resource for adult learners wanting to improve skills for everyday life covering literacy, numeracy, financial capabilities and ICT. The site included a range of familiar faces such as Dominic Little, Phil Tufnell and Lenny Henry and resources including videos, comedy clips, activities, worksheets and true life stories.

The [http://www.woasfl.org/ Whole Organisation Approach] for Delivering ''Skills for Life'' Project was designed to embed ''Skills for Life'' across post compulsory education. Delivered by [http://www.kpmg.co.uk/ KPMG], [http://www.tribalgroup.co.uk/ Tribal], [http://www.lsneducation.org.uk/ LSN] and [http://www.experiencecorps.co.uk/ The Experience Corps] on behalf of [http://www.lsis.org.uk/ LSIS.]


== Footnotes ==
== Footnotes ==
Line 127: Line 62:


== External links ==
== External links ==
*
*[http://www.dfes.gov.uk/readwriteplus/ Skills for Life Strategy Unit]
*[https://www.bbc.co.uk/learning/adults/ BBC Adult Learning Portal] with websites including [https://www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise Skillswise]


{{National Qualifications Framework}}
{{National Qualifications Framework}}

Revision as of 19:38, 23 October 2023

Skills for Life is a national lifelong learning strategy in England for improving adult skills, designed to help learners develop their reading, writing, maths, technical, and digital skills. It provides universal free education and training; including courses in digital, numeracy and transferable skills; traineeships; apprenticeships; and vocational qualifications for all adults in further education colleges.[1][2]

The courses and qualifications provided by training providers can also be provided by employees and businesses to upskill their workforce, and can be taken in Skill Bootcamps at colleges and universities throughout England. It is linked with the National Careers Service.[3]

Training courses

Training cources include classroom-based, on-the-job, online, and short cources. The full list can be found on the Skills for Life website.[4]

  • Free courses for jobs

Courses linked to a large range of sectors, including accounting, digital, health and social care, construction, early years, catering, agriculture and more. Available for adults who are unemployed, earn below the National Living Wage annually (£20,319), or do not already have a Level 3 qualification.

  • Multiply

Multiply is a government-funded programme to help adults improve their numeracy skills.

  • Skills Bootcamps

Skills Bootcamps are developed in partnership with local employers, providers and authorities to help fill skills gaps and vacancies in local areas. Skills Bootcamps are designed to be flexible. Hundreds of courses are available in digital skills (such as data engineering, software development or digital marketing); technical skills (like construction or engineering); and green skills (including electric vehicle and heat pump technology).

  • Returnerships

Returnerships bring together training, skills, and support opportunities for adults aged 50 and over. There are a range of free and flexible courses available to help you get the job they want, gain the skills employers need and boost their confidence in the workplace.

  • Digital – Essential Skills

Those with no experience using computers and other digital devices or have low digital skills, you can study an Digital Essential Skills qualification for free. These courses will give learners the essential digital understanding you need for work and everyday life, such as using a computer or other digital devices, and staying safe online.

  • Numeracy – Essential Skills

If a leaner is 19 and over and does not have a GCSE in maths at grade 4 (or equivalent), they can study and take a range of qualifications for free. These courses will help them gain the numeracy skills needed for work and everyday life and are recognised by employers. Entry level courses are available for complete beginners or those with low numeracy skills.

  • English – Essential Skills (including ESOL)

If a leaner is aged 19 and over and does not have a GCSE in English at grade C (or equivalent), they can study an English course for free. English courses can improve communication skills, helping progress into work and everyday life. All courses lead to a recognised certificate, whether it is an entry-level course, or a level 1 or 2 course (equivalent to GCSE).

  • Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)

Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are specialist technical courses developed with employers and delivered by industry experts. The first HTQs, focussing on digital sector subjects like cyber security or software development, began teaching in September 2022. New qualifications in health & science, and construction, begin teaching from September 2023, with more sectors planned. By completing an HTQ, you will achieve a Level 4 or 5 qualification in your subject area.

  • Apprenticeships

There are hundreds of apprenticeships to choose from in a wide range of different occupations, from data science to business or construction. Apprenticeships are available from level 2 (equivalent to GCSEs) to more advanced apprenticeships that go up to degree level.

  • The Skills Toolkit

The Skills Toolkit is a range of free, high-quality online courses designed to fit the learner. Using the Skills Toolkit will help you build up their skills, boost CVs and progress in work. All courses on The Skills Toolkit are free and have been developed by leading providers like Google, the The Open University, and Cisco.

Financial support

While most courses are free, adults can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to help with the costs of a course at a college or training provider in England.

If you’re aged 19 or over, on a further education course and facing financial hardship, there is also the Learner Support. Learner Support can help pay for things you need to attend your course or study that are not covered by your course fees.

See also

Footnotes

  1. ^ "Skills for Life training and apprenticeship courses". Skills for Life. Retrieved 2023-10-23.
  2. ^ "Guide to the higher technical education provider growth fund". Gov.uk. Retrieved 2023-10-23.
  3. ^ "Skills for Life". Gov.uk. 2023-04-11. Retrieved 2023-10-23.
  4. ^ "Courses Archive". Skills for Life. Retrieved 2023-10-23.
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