AAT responds to government Skills for Jobs white paper
21 January 2021

AAT has responded to the government’s Skills for Jobs: Lifelong Learning for Opportunity and Growth white paper on further education, published today, which sets out plans to "overhaul" the funding and accountability rules for the post-16 sector.
Initial measures outlined in the white paper include a greater role for employer groups in developing courses on offer and tailored skills plans to meet local needs, further details of a new lifelong loan entitlement – as part of the prime minister’s lifetime skills guarantee – and the introduction of new government-backed Higher Technical Qualifications from September 2022. The paper also sets out plans for changes to how the sector is funded, which will be consulted on later this year.
AAT Chief Executive Mark Farrar said: "It’s good to see that the focus on further education is still there for the government in today’s white paper, particularly following the announcement in the mid-year spending review of extra funding for the National Skills Fund and to maintain core funding in real terms for 16–19-year-olds. We were particularly pleased to see the announcement on boosting the quality and uptake of Higher Technical Qualifications with new qualifications being introduced in September 2022, which will help deliver skills employers need and boost earnings at a time when many people are financially struggling.
"However, despite the ongoing economic challenges facing the country in the wake of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and the uncertainty over the impact of Brexit, it’s vital that we continue to push for more urgent funding on the skills agenda for people of all ages. This white paper and the government’s previous announcements are a good start – but there is still a need for more sustainable funding beyond what has already been promised, in order to ensure everyone has the opportunity to develop the skills they need for the future.
"A highly skilled workforce is vital for ensuring the UK economy is able to weather the storm and respond to these challenging times. Employers, government and training providers must now work together to help people across the country build these vital skills. Doing so will ensure that individuals, businesses and local communities benefit from increased investment in skills and training, supporting economic recovery and creating real change."
AAT is a key provider of further education for tens of thousands of students and welcomes anyone thinking about starting or developing a career in accountancy or bookkeeping – regardless of age, school qualifications or background. For more information, please visit the Career in finance section.