Learning at Work Day – brush up your skills
Events being held at workplaces across the country today.
Today is national Learning at Work Day and the Campaign for Learning is urging workers to use the opportunity to gain new skills and discover new abilities.
Tricia Harley, chief executive, Campaign for Learning said, ‘Learning at Work Day is a great opportunity to learn something new or brush up on your skills. Even if your workplace isn’t involved in Learning at Work Day this year, there are lots of simple ways that you can still take part yourself and kick start your own learning journey. For example, you could take an online test to check on your numeracy and literacy skills or talk to your line manager about your skills needs and learning opportunities available through your workplace.’
Meanwhile, Learning at Work Day is being used to promote Train to Gain to employers. Glenn Robinson, Development Director at the Learning and Skills Council said, ‘One simple way to get involved in training is through Train to Gain – the governments flagship service to support employers to improve the skills of their employees as a route to improving their business performance. Recent results from evaluation researchhas shown that 43% of employees who have completed a qualification through Train to Gain released have received a pay rise, and 30% reported have had a promotion. With a range of courses to suit all employees and an offer to employers that makes training their staff straightforward and cost effective, it has never been easier to upgrade your skills.”
The serious benefits of Learning at Work Day are coupled with a light side with fun activities taking place alongside business related learning. This year, once again, managers, Union Learning Representatives, HR and Training professionals and enthusiastic staff members will run learning activities on the day such as the London School of Economics street fayre and “Fit for Life, Fit for Work, Fit for the Future at the Boots UK Limited warehouse in Heywood.
Skills Minister David Lammy lent his support saying: “Learning at Work Day is an excellent opportunity for both employers and employees to make a commitment to learning and skills. The day highlights how learning can lead to a better skilled workforce and better business performance and profits. For individuals, better skills can lead to better jobs and career prospects, and greater confidence and self esteem. If you’ve caught the learning bug, you can call our free helpline on 0800 100 900 to find out about the courses in your local area. For employers, our Train to Gain service will find you the training to help your business succeed – just call free on 0800 015 55 45.”
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