Home > News > September 2007 > 04 September 2007

Survey finds diverse attitudes to learning

A new study by the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) has found that over half (57%) of adults in England consider training a worthwhile investment of time and money.

But this view varies regionally - according to the survey those in the West Midlands are more in favour of training than the national average - at 65% - while 50% of those in the North West agree with the statement.

The survey also found:

* The keenest learners are in London, with 31% investing in training, followed by the South East (28%) and the West Midlands (28%).

* Over one third (36%) of people in England are actively looking to progress more at work, while 33% are looking to get promoted. The West Midlands are most enthusiastic, with the figures rising to 45% and 40% respectively.

* One quarter (24%) of people in England are taking a training course to improve their career prospects. This figure rises to 36% in the capital and to 30% in the South East.

* Those in the South West and North East are most likely to be found working long hours or overtime to further their career rather than looking to training.

* Time constraints are blamed by respondents as having an impact on their ability to undertake a course, with 57% of those surveyed admitting they would like to learn a new skill but there are not enough hours in the day.

David Lammy, minister for skills, said: "This Government is investing record amounts in Further Education (FE), up 48% since 1997, and more adults than ever (80%) are in learning. It is very encouraging to see that many adults across the country are enjoying the benefits of investing in themselves, and are seeking career progression.

"However, the regional differences in both attitudes to, and participation in, lifelong learning reveal that a perception gap still exists for some in regard to what training can offer.

"Attending an FE course improves your career prospects, employability and overall quality of life, and I am committed to ensuring adults nationwide are aware of this. Further Education and training providers across the UK offer a diverse choice of value-for-money courses, which may be subsidised, making them accessible to everyone."

In support of the drive to encourage individuals in England to learn, a new Skills Campaign, 'Our Future, It's In Our Hands', was launched by the Learning and Skills Council last month. The campaign aims to celebrate learning by encouraging people to take control of their own future and learn a new skill. Further information about the campaign can be found at: http://www.lsc.gov.uk/inourhands

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