Lifelong Learning UK (LLUK), the skills council for adult education teachers and learning professionals, pledged pledges to raise the quality of learning at its latest launch in Wales.

Speaking to more than 100 guests at the Cardiff launch LLUK chief executive David Hunter promised that, by upskilling teachers and other learning professionals, the new Sector Skills Council (SSC) would help ensure that more opportunities for training and development were on offer to employees and those seeking work throughout Wales.

"LLUK's priority in Wales is to give our employers a voice and so enable us to truly represent our workforce," said Hunter.

While surveys suggest that learners and employers in Wales are generally satisfied with the quality of learning on offer, Hunter said there was no room for complacency.

"We are committed to helping all staff, whether they work full or part-time, to participate in initial training and continuing professional development," he said. "This is not just as an end in itself, but a recognition of the knock-on effect that it will have on the rest of the workforce."

LLUK's operations in Wales will be headed by learning and development specialist Michelle Sayers, who was appointed national performance manager by the SSC in August. She is also chair of the Skills for Business network in Wales.

"Because our sector trains learning professionals in the widest range of disciplines we are pivotal in supporting the whole sector skills council network in ensuring skills levels across the entire Welsh economy are raised," Sayers said. "We are also exploring our role as a broker between our employers and the learning demands that are emerging as Sector Skills Agreements are established in other sectors. With the futures of thousands of learners in its hands, it is imperative that our workforce gains the capacity to pass on skills and knowledge effectively. Working as part of a cohesive network of sector skills councils is key."