3 November 2025
Lifelong learning transforms lives. It strengthens communities, fuels economic growth, and ensures people have the skills and confidence to seize new opportunities. Learning and Work Institute launched the Get the Nation Learning campaign for a simple reason – when adults learn, our society and economy thrive. Growth, productivity, good work, resilient communities, and richer lives are all benefits that lifelong learning can bring.
At the Skills and Education Group, supporting equitable access to skills and education is at the heart of everything we do. Our mission is closely aligned with the goals of Get the Nation Learning: ensuring everyone, regardless of background, can learn, develop, and progress. We’re proud to be an active partner of Learning and Work Institute, supporting initiatives such as the Festival of Learning – now part of the Get the Nation Learning campaign.
Why Lifelong Learning Matters More Than Ever
As technology and workplaces evolve, adults increasingly need new skills to thrive in life and work. Yet despite the clear benefits of upskilling and reskilling, participation in adult learning has declined significantly over the last decade. Too many people are still being left behind, often those who would benefit the most.
Investment in adult learning has also fallen – government spending on adult skills dropped by £1 billion in real terms between 2010 and 2024, resulting in seven million fewer qualifications awarded. Employer investment has also declined, with UK firms spending half the EU average on workplace training. These cuts have hit hardest in the poorest areas, widening inequalities.
We believe it’s time to turn the tide. By removing barriers, increasing opportunity, and strengthening support for learners, we can unlock:
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Stronger productivity and economic growth
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Healthier and more resilient communities
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Fairer access to employment and good work
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Richer, more fulfilled lives
This is exactly why Learning and Work Institute launched Get the Nation Learning —to make and win the case for lifelong learning, ensuring people across all communities have the chance to grow, reskill, and thrive.
Expanding Opportunity Through Access to Higher Education Diplomas
Our Access to HE Diplomas provide vital second chances, enabling adult learners to progress into higher education later in life. Whether pursuing a new career path, returning to learning after a break, or overcoming barriers they previously faced, Access to HE is a gateway to lifelong success.
By ensuring these qualifications are high-quality, respected and widely available, we help learners grow their skills, ambitions, and futures.These pathways directly support the goals of the Get the Nation Learning campaign, proving that with the right access and support, it’s never too late to learn.
Supporting Skills and Careers with Skills and Education Group Awards and BIIAB
Through Skills and Education Group Awards and BIIAB, we offer qualifications that support real career progression in sectors where skilled workers are urgently needed, including:
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Hospitality
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Health and social care
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Retail and service industries
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Education and training
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Logistics and more
These qualifications empower people to upskill throughout their working lives, boosting job satisfaction, career mobility and employer confidence. They are a cornerstone of lifelong learning in action. As the campaign highlights, upskilling across key industries is essential to driving growth and productivity nationwide.
Championing Social Mobility Through the Skills and Education Group Foundation
Established in 2019, the Skills and Education Group Foundation provides financial grants and recognition to learners, education providers and staff. Our goal is simple:
Everyone deserves a fair shot in life and access to learning should never be the barrier.
By supporting individuals and institutions across the sector, we help unlock potential and accelerate social mobility. This commitment aligns perfectly with the values of Get the Nation Learning — removing barriers and widening participation so everyone can succeed.
Join Us in Getting the Nation Learning
Get the Nation Learning is more than a campaign – it’s a movement. It builds on the legacy of the Festival of Learning, which has celebrated the power of lifelong learning in England for nearly 30 years. Skills and Education Group is proud to have supported this celebration, alongside the Department for Education, NOCN, the Education and Training Foundation, and City Lit.
It’s time to get the nation learning. Join the movement and join us at Skills and Education Group – as we work together to make lifelong learning a reality for everyone.
Become a member here.
