CIPD consultation response: Post-school education and skills reform legislation

Following the recommendations contained in the Independent Review of the Skills Landscape published in June 2023, the Scottish Government sought views on options for the funding and provision of apprenticeships and the funding of learner support. It sought views on the merging and/or changing of the functions of Skills Development Scotland, Scottish Funding Council and the Student Awards Agency Scotland.

CIPD's priorities, as expressed in our response, either through reforms to the status quo or deeper structural change were threefold. 

• Firstly, to protect apprenticeship funding and the quality of provision. Furthermore, there is a range of reforms that have been suggested by the OECD among others, that should not be sidelined due to any structural changes.
• Secondly, ensuring the skills system provides better upskilling and reskilling support. Given the fast-paced changes in our economy, not least the green transition and our ageing workforce, this should be a government priority.
• Thirdly, employers must remain at the heart of the system. The establishment of SAAB and AAG have been positive steps and the CIPD has been delighted to play our role in employer engagement. Any replacements of these structures, either on a national or regional level, needs to allow employers meaningfully impact policy choices.