Research 04/06/2022

Adult basic skills

By Shona MacLeod, Suzanne Straw

Download now

Findings from the Education Development Trust (formerly CfBT Education Trust) International Review undertaken to inform continuous improvements in the teaching and learning of adult basic skills. Written and researched by the National Foundation for Educational Research.

The International Review Programme comprises six literature reviews which were undertaken by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) between September 2009 and May 2010 for Education Development Trust, with the purpose of informing continuous improvements in the teaching and learning of adult basic skills.

In the context of this work, ‘basic skills’ covers the ability to read, write and speak English, and use mathematics at a level necessary to function and progress at work and in society. It also spans basic skills which are acquired for different purposes (such as financial capability) or through different modes of learning (such as work-based learning).

Through reviewing the UK and international evidence, this Education Development Trust-commissioned International Review Programme highlights what approaches are being, and have been, taken to improve adult basic skills. It looks at what works well, and what still needs to be done to increase the ambition, aspiration and achievement of employers, employees, learners and trainees as well as those who make up the potential current and future workforce. This evidence suggests the most effective approaches in terms of improving adults’ basic skills.

Downloads

Adult basic skills

Download now

Related Content

Article

EDT reaccredited with matrix standard for information, advice and guidance services

EDT was recently externally assessed for the renewal of our matrix accreditation for information, advice and guidance (IAG) services in the UK. The matrix standard is owned by the UK’s Department for Education and ensures the delivery of high-quality IAG services that enable people to reach their full potential. We are delighted to share that we have met the matrix standards and are now accredited for three more years.

Article

EDT welcomes the government’s Skills England announcement

EDT welcomes the recent announcement by the UK government on the development of Skills England. We welcome the opportunity to play a fundamental role in the development of an approach that can transform the landscape of skills development in England. We are ready to contribute our research, labour market information, programme delivery, and employer engagement resources and expertise to support this important initiative and help build a more skilled and adaptable workforce for the future.

Insights

Supporting girls’ transitions across the education system and into work

The transitions from school to higher education and employment can have a significant impact on an individual’s lifetime potential. Earlier in 2023, we conducted a literature review to help us understand the challenges that girls in low-resource settings face when making their transitions. In this article we reflect on the findings of the report, the promising interventions it highlights, and some key lessons for policymakers.

Insights