The views represented here are those of the author and not
necessarily those of the Commission
Migration, Communities and
Lifelong Learning, by Stephen McNair
This is the third thematic paper to be published from the Inquiry
into the Future for Lifelong Learning (IFLL). This paper, published
on 22 April 2009, is about the implications for lifelong
learning of the changing nature of communities in Britain, and
especially of the impact of migration (internal and external to
Britain) on this. It aims to present as accurate a picture as
possible of patterns of migration and community cohesion in Britain,
but focuses on the broad trends and what they imply for what
individuals and communities need to learn. It argues that adult
education can speed up the process of integration into a new
community, helping people to quickly become a significant part of
their neighbourhood. This is true for people moving within the UK,
as well as from other countries, and should include rapid access to
first level ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) teaching
for those who need it.
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.
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.
Call for Evidence
Call for evidence: Migration
and communities
Closing date for evidence was 20 March 2008.