The National Skills Forum this week published a report examining how disadvantaged groups are excluded from vocational learning and training opportunities.
Focusing on three groups - black and minority ethnic (BME) learners, offenders and ex-offenders and people with disabilities - the report looks at the barriers which prevent people from entering education, from progressing through the learning pathway and from gaining sustainable employment. It proposes recommendations to policymakers and employers on ways to increase skills and employment opportunities for socially excluded groups.
The report entitled ‘Doing Things Differently: Step Changes in Skills and Inclusion’ is published as the result of an inquiry which began in September 2009. Chaired by Gordon Marsden MP and Jacqui Henderson CBE, the inquiry held a series of roundtable discussions with experts from across the skills and equalities agendas including NBP’s Chief Executive Robin Landman.
Proposals for a new approach to monitoring and tackling inequality in skills and training provision for BME learners include:
- Government communicating more effectively to parents of BME learners the learning options and careers choices available
- Government (DCSF) and Training & Development Agency addressing negative aspirations of BME learners by providing enhanced career guidance
- Office for Fair Access encouraging Russell Group universities to participate in careers guidance at institutions with a high BME student intake
From the National Skills Forum website you can download the final report, read the evidence submitted to the enquiry and comment on the issues it raises.
