The recent White Paper on Skills may have confirmed the demise of the Individual Learning Account scheme once and for all in England, but it looks set to get a new life in Wales.
Welsh learners are set to benefit from a relaunch of the scheme this week, designed to offer grants to those undertaking training, because the problems with fraud and misuse of the ILA scheme encountered in England weren't experienced there. However, tough financial controls have been introduced by the National Council - ELWa as a precaution for the new programme.
In addition, the new scheme will be targeted specifically at those with few or no qualifications on low incomes, who might otherwise be unable to afford the cost of training. ILA Wales has a budget of £2 million in its first year and up to 10,000 people are expected to take advantage of the funding available.
Up to £200 can be claimed for each course, which they can use to pay for learning with any one of 115 registered providers, including colleges, voluntary groups, private training centres, community initiatives and on-line learning organisations.
Said George McKechnie Director of Participation at the National Council - ELWa: "This gives people the encouragement to get back into learning in a way that suits them personally. We've found from experience that maximising choice and flexibility in this way is a strong incentive for individuals to kick-start a new pattern of learning in their lives.
Learners can apply for the scheme from 21st July, more information can be found at www.ilawales.com.
