CBA Letter in The Guardian Today

The CBA has written to The Guardian newspaper pointing out the damage caused to the continuing education sector by DIUS funding cuts.

Richard Lee, CBA Education Project Officer, has written to The Guardian newspaper in response to comments made recently by David Blunkett. The text of the letter is as follows:

David Blunkett’s remarks (Don’t over look adult’s passion to learn, 16 June) are prescient. One of the first tasks for the new Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) might be to rescind the DIUS cuts in funding for equal level qualifications, which had the effect of placing the fees for continuing education beyond the reach of many.

More than 7,000 adults took courses in archaeology last year. While some students want informal learning, others may be looking for accreditation for a career change. Both sets of learners are affected by the government’s adverse attitude to lifelong learning. There are genuine concerns for student enrolment. The case for BIS to reverse the actions of its predecessor is strong.

Richard also pointed out to the newspaper that archaeology is a subject that has a strong attraction for adult learners of all ages and backgrounds in continuing education. The CBA’s recent report on this topic, Engaging with the Historic Environment, can be found on the Education pages.