Government encourages informal learning at work

UK firms are being persuaded by the government to promote informal learning at work, as part of a new drive to improve employee’s skills.

The ‘Café Culture’ scheme aims to promote good practice among employers, and the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) has today published a report to help companies see the benefits of adult learning at work.

The resource, ‘Building the Café Culture movement’, includes case studies to show how companies have seen the benefits of informal learning, with guidelines on how to follow in their footsteps.

Skills minister John Hayes said: “Businesses have a pivotal role in promoting adult learning, and so have a unique opportunity to change, and indeed improve people’s lives. In turn they can reap the harvest of a productive and engaged workforce.”

So far 64 innovative companies have pledged to increase informal workplace training for their staff, including 11 from the FSTE 350.

The ‘Café Culture’ campaign, which has been running since 2009, has involved a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, finance, construction, utilities and food and drink companies.

© Crimson Business Ltd. 2010