Learning and skills - the way forward

A mini-conference entitled ‘Learning and Skills in South Norfolk – Next Steps’ will be held at South Norfolk House, Long Stratton on Tuesday 2 December.

The mini-conference has been organised jointly by the Culture & Learning Policy Development Panel and the Economic Policy Development Panel of South Norfolk Council, to raise awareness of learning activity and needs.

Adam Bennett, South Norfolk Council’s Economic and Community Development Manager says:

“The conference is an opportunity to discuss the real issues facing local learners. It is also a chance for members of the Panels to question and explore the activities of a wide range of learning organisations”.

The skills gaps which local businesses face are also on the agenda, with a presentation and discussion led by the Chief Executive of the Learning and Skills Council, John Brierley, on implementing the new national Skills Strategy.

Other speakers include Jo Archer from the Learning and Skills Council, Debbie Harris from Learning Communities (of which South Norfolk have three - in Diss, Wymondham and Loddon) and Jane Bartram from the Wymondham Learning Centre who will be explaining the barriers to learning from the learners viewpoint. They will all be sharing their experiences and then breaking into workshops with the delegates who represent a range of providers, learners, businesses and councillors involved with the Policy Development Panels.

Adam Bennett says:

“Skills gaps exist throughout the local economy, so delegates will have a real chance to ensure that local gaps are filled with relevant, flexible learning. The issues highlighted will inform future activity of providers and ensure that local learning issues are being addressed.”

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