AAT calls for more investment in lifelong learning through colleges

AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) has welcomed calls for more investment in lifelong learning through colleges and strengthening connections with local employers to tackle the skills gap. 

In a new report published today (28 October 2020), the Independent Commission on the College of the Future calls for a significant overhaul of the post-16 education and skills system, including making it possible for people across the UK to have a statutory right to lifelong learning, whatever route they choose to take. The Commission also recommends that new ‘employer hubs’ are established at local colleges to help upskill current and future employees and address skills gaps. 

Responding to the report, Mark Farrar, Chief Executive, AAT, said: 

“Colleges play a pivotal role in their local communities throughout the UK, and we welcome today’s report from the Commission which shows how key they are to equipping current and future employees with the skills to succeed in a rapidly changing, modern work environment. 

“Given the ongoing impact of Covid-19 and the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, now more than ever it is vital to ensure access to upskilling and reskilling for everyone, whatever their age or previous background. As we have seen with many of our own AAT students – whether studying full-time or alongside work – those who are given the right skills often go on to greater things in the profession and develop their careers, including progressing on to roles such as finance director or chief executive as well as running their own accountancy practice. 

“By investing now to support and strengthen colleges and ensure they are providing skills and training which benefits individuals and businesses in their areas, we can create a workforce that is able to adapt to local needs and thrive in the workplaces of the future.” 

AAT welcomes anyone thinking about starting or developing a career in accountancy or bookkeeping – regardless of age, school qualifications or background. For more information about AAT accounting qualifications, visit AAT’s website. 

The Independent Commission on the College of the Future – chaired by Sir Ian Diamond, the UK’s National Statistician – launched its final UK-wide report on its work to answer two simple questions: what do we want and need from colleges from 2030 onwards, and how do we get there?  
 
Launched in Spring 2019, the Independent Commission was commissioned by the Four Nations College Alliance – which brings together college leaders, their representative bodies and senior government officials from across the four nations of the UK. The Commission is made up of a wide range of experts, representing college leaders, employer groups, trade unions, student voice and academia.