Getting ahead and Learning for Life
September 15, 2013 9:14 PM
Originally published by UK Liberal Democrats
Originally published by UK Liberal Democrats
This motion addresses a wide area of education and skills and is designed to provide access to higher education for all, regardless of income or background.
Today Liberal Democrats supported a comprehensive and rigorous approach to job creation and developing skilled employees for a stronger economy and a better way of life for everyone.
Key proposals include:
- A system where every young person will study Literacy and Numeracy until they are 18, and ICT up to Level 2
- Free school meals to be extended to pupils and students from poorer backgrounds in colleges
- Equality between vocational and academic routes of learning with greater freedom to move between course and tailoring learning to the individual's needs
- Retaining the current system of higher education finance, and committing to a review within the next Parliament
Commenting, Baroness Sal Brinton said:
"The Liberal Democrats' new policy Learning for Life makes it clear that the party is committed to improving careers advice to young people, access to vocational education and apprenticeships.
"We also believe that there should be a Student Premium (following on from the successful Pupil Premium) and free college meals (as with free school meals) for students aged 14-18 from low income families.
"We also want to see 20,000 extra places for science, technology, engineering and maths, as well as access to loans for home Masters students. We will also review the current student finance system in the next Parliament.
"We are building on the best in the education sector, committed to ensuring that all students have access and support, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, because in the 21st century everyone needs skills to be able to work and life. Learning for Life is the answer."