A dedicated strategy for lifelong learning and skills development is not yet being planned by the government, the Education Minister has said.
Deputy Catherine Curtis has said it would be “premature” to commit to a specific strategy, timetable or list of areas it could cover.
The issue was raised in a written States question by Deputy Max Andrews, who asked whether the government was considering a strategy covering lifelong learning and skills – including pre-school and compulsory education, workplace training, upskilling, reskilling and lifelong learning.
Deputy Curtis said: “I recognise the importance of lifelong learning and skills development in supporting Islanders at all stages of life, from early years and compulsory education through to further and higher education, workplace training, and opportunities to upskill and reskill throughout a person’s career.”
The minister also pointed to a lifelong learning review by the former Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel – which she chaired.
“The review identified a number of areas for further consideration, including simplifying funding arrangements, reducing barriers to participation and improving access to retraining and upskilling opportunities,” Deputy Curtis added.
“It would be premature at this stage to commit to the publication of a specific lifelong learning and skills strategy, a timetable for its development, or the precise matters that such a document might contain.”
