A coalition of organisations including broadcaster Channel 4, manufacturers’ organisation Make UK, and the National Housing Federation have pledged to “get the nation learning” as a new report demonstrates that when adults learn, our society and economy thrive.
Led by the independent policy and research organisation Learning and Work Institute (L&W), the Get the Nation Learning campaign has been launched to make and win the case for lifelong learning. At the heart of the campaign sits the Get the Nation Learning Charter, signed by a growing number of key players—including employers, membership bodies, and community organisations.
This campaign launches as L&W’s research, commissioned by the longevity think tank Phoenix Insights set up by Phoenix Group, shows that lifelong learning increases adults’ employment prospects and reduces their out-of-work benefits receipt. With the Government targeting an 80% employment rate and a reduction in economic inactivity, the research shows that participation in learning could be a game changer for adults seeking and staying in work.
People qualified at or below GCSE level or equivalent, the research finds, see the greatest impacts of learning in the immediate term, while employers who invest in workplace training enjoy improved retention and increased workforce productivity.
The Get the Nation Learning campaign aims to turn the tide after over a decade of decline in lifelong learning. The adult skills budget in England has been cut by £1 billion since 2010, resulting in millions fewer people gaining qualifications. At the same time, employers are investing 26% less per employee than in 2005, with significant inequalities in who benefits from training at work.
Get the Nation Learning
Find out more about our new campaign, including how to get involved.
Find out moreStephen Evans, Chief Executive of Learning and Work Institute, said:
“When adults learn, our society and economy thrive. Growth, productivity, good work, resilient communities, fuller and richer lives—these are some of the prizes on offer. From increasing employment to net zero, from social cohesion to inclusive growth, some of the greatest challenges facing Government and our employers today could be tackled by building a culture of lifelong learning. That means valuing it, funding it, and giving everyone access to it. That’s why our new campaign to Get the Nation Learning is so important, and we look forward to working with our campaign partners in making the case for learning across the country.”
Jamie Ward, Head of Learning and Talent at Channel 4 said:
“The world of work is changing fast, not least in the media industry. Learning new skills throughout one’s working life is key to staying relevant, fulfilling your purpose and getting real satisfaction. Outside work, learning is a joy and why wouldn’t we want that to last our whole lives long? That’s why the Get the Nation Learning campaign is so important.”
Jamie Cater, Senior Policy Manager for Employment at Make UK, said:
“The importance of lifelong learning has never been greater to businesses and their workforces. As manufacturing jobs and the skills needed to do them change, the future growth and resilience of the UK’s manufacturers relies on their ability to invest in upskilling and retraining their employees. We back the campaign to Get the Nation Learning to embed lifelong learning in the education landscape, and support both manufacturing employers and their workers to retain and develop the skills they need to thrive.”
Catherine Foot, Director of Phoenix Insights, said:
“Somebody starting work today could have a career spanning five decades. Longer working lives mean that lifelong learning is ever more important. The government’s ambitious 80% employment target will be impossible to achieve without boosting employment for people aged 50 and over. With this research showing there is a causal link between learning as an adult and the likelihood of being in employment, it’s never been more vital for lifelong learning to be seen as a pivotal tool to keep people in work.
The government can support this agenda by ensuring that lifelong learning is integrated into careers advice and employment support services, including the reform plans for the National Jobs and Careers Service.”
Mark Cameron, CEO of The 5% Club, said:
“Lifelong learning is central to The 5% Club’s mission to drive inclusive, skills-based employment. We are delighted to support the Get the Nation Learning campaign, which aligns perfectly with our vision of a nation where everyone can thrive through continual development. Our members are leading by example—investing in skills, opening up opportunities, and fostering a culture of continuous learning. We fully support this important initiative and look forward to the positive impact we can deliver together to make lifelong learning a reality for all.”
Anthony Impey MBE FCGI, CEO of Be the Business, said:
“Right now, small business leaders are under real pressure — rising costs, tough markets, and constant change. That’s why so many are looking at how they can boost productivity, and training is a big part of the answer. Helping their teams build new skills isn’t just good for morale — it’s essential for staying competitive. Lifelong learning gives small businesses the edge they need to deal with today’s challenges and make the most of tomorrow’s opportunities.”
David Huges, Chief Executive of Association of Colleges (AoC), said:
“Learning at any age and stage of life helps us all adapt and innovate in a changing world, and to build relationships, confidence, self-esteem and resilience so that we can thrive and grow. Colleges have an important role to play. They are at the forefront of lifelong learning, providing the education and opportunities that empower people to grow and pursue career options that may have previously been out of reach.
The Association of Colleges is really excited to support the Get the Nation Learning campaign. It dovetails with our commitment to fostering continuous learning and ensures everyone has the chance to achieve their full potential.”
Ann Watson, CEO of Enginuity, said:
“Embedding a culture of lifelong learning in this country is paramount.
By 2043, 75.5% of today’s workforce will still be employed. With technological transformation accelerating and time running out to realise our goals on Net Zero, embedding a culture of lifelong learning in this country is critical to survive and thrive.
We are incredibly excited to put our voice behind this crucial campaign. Lifelong learning is at the heart of what Enginuity does – uniquely placed as a sector connector for manufacturing and engineering firms, we spend our charitable funds on projects that help to close the skills gap.
From inspiring young people, right through to supporting women back into STEM careers after a career break or working with prisons to help those with experience of custody into work, we champion lifelong learning.”
