Press Release

Government at risk of losing the battle for hard to reach learners and vulnerable adults, says ATL

6 June 2008

In response to the National Audit Office (NAO) report - Skills for Life: progress in improving adult literacy and numeracy, Dr Mary Bousted, general secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) said:

“ATL greatly welcomes the Government’s Skills for Life agenda, including the strategy to improve adult basic literacy and numeracy skills, and the focus on English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).

“However, ATL is very concerned that cutting adult provision in informal learning and ESOL funding will more than likely result in turning off adult learners. By focusing on targets, the Government is also at risk of losing the battle for hard to reach learners and vulnerable adults.

“ATL believes that the Government should invest more in those delivering adult literacy and numeracy, providing a committed teaching workforce with professional recognition and relevant training.”