Acclaim for HI-LLN by John Denham MP

The Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills, John Denham MP, has praised the work of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Lifelong Learning Network, saying it “is going from strength to strength”. The comments were made during his speech at the Widening Adult Participation in HE event at the University of Southampton at the end of May.

The purpose of the event was to address the importance of Higher Education and increasing the opportunities for non-traditional and adult learners to get degrees.

During his address John Denham said: “Overall, as your research confirms, we need to do more to improve adult progression to HE and I believe that Lifelong Learning Networks have a strong role to play here. They provide links between FE and HE in the same way as we are trying to link universities and schools.

In March the Lifelong Learning Network achieved national coverage. Already they involve over 90 per cent of all universities in England and over 300 colleges. I am pleased to see that, in Hampshire, our Lifelong Learning Network 'Progress to Succeed' is going from strength to strength - led by Southampton Solent University and involving several other local universities and colleges.

I have now asked HEFCE develop a stronger, more focused remit for the Lifelong Learning Networks. I also want LLNs to develop clear progression routes for people on diplomas and for those following LSC-funded vocational programmes and workplace learning into HE.”

The complete speech can be found at The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills website.