Adult Learning in a Changing World Thursday, April 9, 2009 - 15:30

The educational challenges arising from the global economic downturn - and NIACE's concern for a re-balancing of funding for adult learning - are the key themes being discussed today at this year's Adult Learners' Week Policy Conference.

Beyond the Recession: Adult Learning in a Changing World is looking at the role providers and policy-makers can play in supporting individuals and communities affected by the recession and helping them to re-engage in learning.

The conference is discussing the challenge of restoring those lost learning opportunities for adults in further, higher and community education in recent years.

This year, the Adult Learners' Week Policy Conference is being supported by QCA, the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority.

The conference includes contributions from:

• Rt Hon John Denham MP, Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills
• Chris Humphries, CEO of the UK Commission for Employment and Skills
• Pam Johnson, Head of Learning and Organising Services at UNISON
• Andrew Sich, Head of Corporate Affairs at City & Guilds 
• Alan Tuckett, Chief Executive of NIACE