From a DfEE press release -

Education and Employment Secretary David Blunkett today welcomed a report on the progress and development of individual learning accounts. He pledged to put the individual at the heart of the learning revolution when the full rollout of accounts happens nationwide next year.

"A Summary of Progress on Individual Learning Accounts", paves the way for the national launch of learning accounts next year. DFEE is inviting key partners, including financial institutions, to help make learning accounts a success.

Market research from today’s DFEE report found:

* people welcomed individual learning accounts as a means of overcoming cost, one of the main barriers to learning
* learning would be more accessible
* accounts would help and support a change in career direction

Speaking at the New Opportunities Awards ceremony in Glazier’s Hall, London in Adult Learners Week, Mr Blunkett, presenting a new DFEE sponsored award to recognise learning partnerships, said:

" Today’s progress report demonstrates we are fully on course for next year. Individual learning accounts will enable individuals to take ownership of their careers by helping them to invest in their own learning. "

The report continues at -