National Learner Panel

The National Learner Panel has been advising the government on how proposed changes in further education in England will affect learners. It’s made up of volunteers involved in further education as learners – giving learners a voice at national level. The National Learner Panel is now recruiting up to 20 new members for the academic year 2008/2009. Apply by 10 October 2008 The Panel would like to hear from learners of all ages, in all different types of further and adult education. You don’t need to be an expert in how further education works - just be willing to share opinions based on your experiences. What does the National Learner Panel do? The National Learner Panel was set up by the government to give learners a say in the development of further education at national level. It advises the government, the Learning and Skills Council and other organisations involved in making the decisions. By providing a learner’s perspective on policies, proposals and initiatives, it aims to make a difference to your experience of further education. Panel members are part-time, independent volunteers. Anyone in further education is eligible to apply to join the Panel - all that’s needed is an interest in further education and a commitment to making sure it meets the needs of learners. The Panel members reflect the wide variety of learners in further education. They’re drawn from across the sector, including learners at college and in work-based learning. Members’ ages range from 17 to 67, including those who have just left school, those who are returning to learning later in life to boost their career prospects and those who have retired and are learning for pleasure. For more details, application form and promotional flyer see: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/AdultLearning/DG_068290