Why has the government decided to stop automatically funding English-language classes for everyone?
A number of people have lobbied me over the recent decision by the Learning and Skills Council (responsible for adult learning in the UK) to stop the automatic funding of ESOL courses for some non-English speakers.
I believe this issue, as usual, has more to it than the headlines show. Below are my thoughts:
The decision to stop automatic fee remission for all ESOL learners has been taken for a number of reasons. It is important that the resources available are targeted at those who need it most. Those who are able to pay for language training should do so as this will release more resources to enable those who cannot afford to pay to receive the training they want.
The changes will mean that resources are targeted at those least able to pay (people who are unemployed or on income-support will still be eligible for free training) and also at those who are likely to stay in the UK on a more permanent basis. It makes sense that the cost of teaching migrant workers is met by the employers who choose to recruit from overseas rather than the British tax-payer at large.
- Ministerial Statement (PDF, 729 Kb)
letter from Bill Rammell explaining in detail the changes made to ESOL funding
- Letter from Phil Hope MP (29 Jan '07) (PDF, 292 Kb)
this is a copy of the ministerial response to your lobbying on this issue
Update on changes to funding for ESOL courses
- Update from the Minister (26 March '07) (PDF, 413 Kb)
further details from Bill Rammell on new provisions to ensure the most vulnerable groups will not be affected by the changes being made to funding arrangements for ESOL courses.
- Update from the Minister (9 March '07) (PDF, 553 Kb)
update from Bill Rammell on the issue of funding for ESOL courses and details of some changes to the proposals.