University for Industry

Improving skills through technology for citizens, for communities, for business

The concept of a ‘University for Industry’ led to the creation of Ufi in 1998. The organisation then set-up learndirect, now a nationally recognised brand for learning. In ten years learndirect has become the largest e-learning network of its kind in the world, and has individualised the delivery of learning to a mass audience through a unique combination of flexibility, accessibility and support.

The creation of Ufi and the two strands of the learndirect service – learndirect Skills and Qualifications and learndirect Business - means the UK is now leading the world in online learning for individuals and the country's workforce. Through learndirect, Ufi has enabled millions of people across England, Wales and Northern Ireland to access learning and acquire new skills.

Since 2000, more than two and a half million learners have gained new skills, new confidence and new opportunities with learndirect. Until Autumn 2008, Ufi also ran the learndirect Careers Advice service which provided free, impartial information and advice on nearly a million courses and learning opportunities across the UK, as well as advice on careers, returning to work, funding and childcare. This service is now available at http://careersadvice.direct.gov.uk/ and will become part of the new Adult Careers and Advancement Service, being launched in 2010.

Click here for information on learndirect courses

Click here for information on learndirect business

Click here for the latest news and information

Click here for facts and figures

Click here for publication