Themes

Migration and communities

The views represented here are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Commission

Call for evidence: Migration and communities
Closing date for evidence was 20 March 2008.

Migration and Communities a summary of discussions at the expert seminar and Commissioner's meeting
This note summarises the key points and issues for further consideration by the Inquiry that were raised during the Migration and Communities Expert Seminar on 31 January 2008.

Papers presented at Thematic Seminar

Adult Learning and Demographic Change
Drawing on IPPR’s recent research on demographic analysis and migration integration, this paper sets out data on migration flows and the qualifications profiles of different migrant communities. It argues that the current learning and skills system is not well placed to meet the diverse needs of different migrant groups, and highlights in particular unmet demand for ESOL courses.

Britain’s Ethnic Diversity and Recent Migration from A8 Countries
This contextual paper sets out evidence from available quantitative data on the changing ethnic profile of the UK population. It looks at the impact of subsequent episodes of migration, and focuses in detail on migration from A8 countries.

Demography and Adult Learning: a discussion paper for the NIACE Commission of Inquiry
This is a thematic paper prepared to support the NIACE Commission of Inquiry into a strategy for lifelong learning.  It maps out the demographic changes which are taking place in the UK, and makes some suggestions about their implications for the future design of lifelong learning.  Respondents are invited to comment on this draft - particularly on the implications of demographic change for lifelong learning policy and practice, and on  the accuracy and completeness of this account of the issues.

ESOL: the context and issues
Drawing on research and evidence from NIACE’s independent Commission of Inquiry into ESOL provision in England, this paper explores a range of key policy concerns. Issues covered include: the needs of different learner groups; ESOL for employability, for community cohesion and for civic and democratic participation; the teaching workforce; and funding. It argues that the shifts in learner population and demand require radical solutions, so that adults develop English language skills in ways that enable them to gain greater independence and control over their own lives.

New migrants and lifelong learning: impacts, gaps and opportunities
This paper explores the education and aspiration profile of new migrants in the UK, with a specific focus on asylum seekers and refugees. It examines the types of lifelong learning they have accessed in the UK; their reasons for participation in learning; the main barriers they face to access and achievement; and the kinds of initiatives that would enable them to access appropriate provision.

Young Adults
This paper provides an overview of key education and labour market policies affecting young adults during the period 1997-2007. The period has witnessed a plethora of policies and initiatives designed to tackle youth unemployment, increase participation rates, improve achievement and address the changing skills needs of the UK labour market.