Learning In The Workplace Scheme Receives £34 million From Welsh Assembly Government
More than £34 million will be invested in a work-based learning programme to help almost 8,000 people across West Wales and the Valleys improve their skills while remaining in their jobs, Education Minister Jane Hutt announced today [Tuesday 27 October 2009].
The programme will offer employees flexible, bite-size learning opportunities at NVQ Level 4 and above, tailored to the needs of the workplace with modular credits that can be counted towards other higher level qualifications.
It is aimed at working individuals wishing to improve their skills and develop their careers, but who are unable to commit to full-time education, or are not ready to undertake a qualification such as a degree.
Led by University of Glamorgan, on behalf of the Welsh Higher Education sector, the scheme will see institutions across the region collaborating with almost 1,000 employers to deliver learning in the workplace, enabling businesses to benefit from increased capacity amongst their workforce.
Backed with £19.5million from the Convergence European Social Fund through the Welsh Assembly Government, and match-funding from higher education institutions and the private sector, the Work-based Learning programme will collaborate with a range of stakeholders, including Sector Skills Councils and further education institutions to address skills and qualifications needs.
Jane Hutt said:
“The Work-based Learning programme offers a practical solution to those in employment who want to gain higher level skills. It will benefit both employers and employees by offering modules that are relevant to businesses whilst helping their workforce improve their skills. The programme will ensure that the skills gained from each qualification will be an asset to employers in the region.”
Employers will be encouraged to support work-based learning activities to improve the skills of staff in areas such as management and construction. Learning will take place through a range of innovative initiatives, including taster sessions, provision of small credit bearing modules and blended learning, which combines traditional face to face teaching with interactive methods of online learning.
Just in time training and accreditation of prior learning activities will also contribute to qualifications with a focus on improving skills across sectors such as energy, digital economy and creative industries. The qualifications gained will also act as a pathway to further learning including studying on a foundation degree programme.
Martyn Jeffries, Head of European & External Resource Office, University of Glamorgan said:
“This is one of a number of programmes which have been carefully designed by the HE sector to provide a whole suite of demand-responsive courses aimed at meeting the requirements of emerging and growing industries in the Welsh economy. It is hoped that the programme make a real impact during this difficult economic time.”
Topics: adult education, careers, college degree, Convergence European Social Fund, education, education sector, Governance, government, Jane Hutt, part time learning, University of Glamorgan, Wales
Print This Article in Plain Text
|
|
Latest Headlines
- Osama Bin Laden Dead?
- Florida To Share $1 Billion For Gulf Coast Restoration Efforts
- Texas Prays For Rain During Extreme Drought Conditions
- Governor Christie Takes Action To Reduce Diesel Emissions, Improve Air Quality
- Governor McDonnell Outlines Draft Transportation Improvement Program
- Alaska Energy Bill Passes Legislature
- Illinois State Building Receives ENERGY STAR Award
- Homeland Security Begins Using National Terrorism Advisory System
- U.S. Outlines New Health Insurance Options For Graduating College Students
- Electrolux Expands In North Carolina, To Create 200 Jobs In Charlotte
- Virginia Storm Victims To Receive Tax Extension
- U.S. Expands Broadband Investment For Rural Areas To Accelerate Job Creation
- U.S. To Invest $130 Million For Advanced Energy Research
- Michigan Passes “I’m Sorry” Bill
- Kentucky Sells Two State Aircraft To Save Taxpayer Dollars
