Weekly Newsletter 21.11.2024

EDUCATION POLICY

Adult Education Funding Overhaul: New Skills Fund Introduced

The Department for Education has unveiled a transformative overhaul of adult education funding in England, transitioning from the Adult Education Budget (AEB) to the new Adult Skills Fund (ASF) for the 2024-25 academic year. This reform aims to streamline access to education and prioritise support for those most in need. A pivotal change is the shift from prior educational attainment to circumstances and income as the primary eligibility criteria, with a new earnings threshold of £25,000 per annum for full funding qualification.

The introduction of Tailored Learning marks a significant innovation, merging community learning, non-regulated learning, and employer-focused provision. This approach grants providers the flexibility to address local needs and support harder-to-reach learners, allowing them to determine their own costs for various aspects of learning provision. Despite these changes, existing legal entitlements, such as free English and maths courses up to Level 2, remain intact.

Additionally, the previously temporary HGV driver training flexibility is now permanent, enabling funding for HGV and medical licences for adults completing approved qualifications. These reforms are designed to support the goals of the Skills for Jobs White Paper, enhancing productivity and growth while improving educational access for lower-income individuals. Providers and learners are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new framework ahead of its implementation, as it heralds a period of substantial change in the adult education landscape.

EDUCATION

AI's Role in Shaping Future Education Policies

AI is reshaping education, offering significant benefits such as improved grades and educator productivity. Research indicates that 85% of UK university faculty view AI positively, yet only 67% of students share this sentiment. This disparity highlights a need for universities to bridge the gap in AI perception. Students are increasingly using AI for tasks like research and exam revision, with 52% reporting grade improvements. However, concerns about AI's impact on academic integrity persist, with 43% of students equating AI use with cheating.

As AI technology continues to evolve, higher education institutions must implement adaptive educational and regulatory systems. By fostering collaboration between institutions, faculty, and students, the potential for AI to enhance education is immense. It can lead to a transformative era in education, where human and artificial intelligence work in harmony to achieve extraordinary outcomes.

TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION NEWS

Microsoft and Multiverse Partner to Enhance AI Skills Nationwide

Multiverse is collaborating with Microsoft to advance the Get On campaign, aiming to equip 1 million individuals with AI skills by 2025. This initiative is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to empower 1.5 million people with tech skills. Multiverse has introduced the AI-Powered Productivity apprenticeship, the UK's first accredited programme to integrate Microsoft 365 Copilot, supported by public funding through the apprenticeship levy. This programme addresses the skills gap, as research shows over half of workers have minimal AI training, and 63% of tech leaders cite skill deficiencies as a barrier to AI investment.

The apprenticeship offers a comprehensive curriculum, covering AI technologies, data privacy, and ethical practices, tailored for diverse roles and experience levels. Participants will learn to leverage Microsoft 365 Copilot to enhance productivity and creativity, while understanding the ethical implications of AI use. This initiative is crucial for businesses aiming to thrive in an AI-driven economy, providing employees with the necessary skills to drive innovation and productivity.

Multiverse, a leading edtech company, partners with over 1,500 organisations, including the NHS and KPMG, to deliver impactful learning experiences. The company's focus on personalised, on-the-job training has resulted in significant returns on investment for employers. This collaboration with Microsoft underscores the importance of strategic upskilling to harness AI's potential for economic growth.

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

Apprenticeships Essential for NHS and Economic Growth Amid Funding Challenges

Government plans to redirect funding to younger learners threaten higher-level apprenticeships critical for NHS management and economic growth. Cuts to Level 7 apprenticeships, where 60% of participants work in the public sector, could hinder NHS reform and social mobility.

These programmes are vital for training effective managers and fostering a skilled workforce, particularly among non-university graduates. Sector leaders warn that reduced funding could harm public services and small businesses.

LEGAL EDUCATION

Government's Potential De-Funding of Solicitor Apprenticeships Threatens Social Mobility

Proposed de-funding of Level 7 solicitor apprenticeships risks harming social mobility and economic growth. These apprenticeships provide vital opportunities for non-traditional candidates, many from state schools or with significant student debt. Smaller firms and diverse apprentices would be hit hardest, reinstating barriers in the legal profession.

Damar Training’s solicitor programme, in partnership with BARBRI, champions inclusivity, offering flexible pathways that benefit smaller firms and in-house teams. Sector consultation is crucial to preserving these programmes, which support regional growth and ensure talent thrives, regardless of background.