Wales is set to enter a new phase in the development of its workforce, as it pursues a bold vision to create a strong, sustainable economy, based on full employment and highly-skilled jobs. The Minister discusses the Welsh vision for skills in this piece.

Steve Day from Rotherham Council discusses in-depth the local authority's approach to e-learning and how it fits with their work force development plans. He also touches upon the efficiency savings and the challenges they had to overcome.

Jon Case, Chief Executive Birchfield Interactive discusses the benefits of procuring SCORM-compliant curriculum-mapped content for learning platforms and how this can ensure consistency for ICT and huge cost savings for LAs!

The authors, Susannah Constable and Katy Morris discuss some of the options open to local and sub-regional government to improve productivity gap and the challenge presented by a lack of engagement from business.

The Commissioner of Human Rights discusses the plight of the Roma people in Europe and urges for a comprehensive approach to address this injustice while arguing for giving Roma children inclusive quality education as part of the solution.

The Learning and Skills Councils are being replaced with some their responsibilities being taken over by local authorities while the adult skills domain would see more market led approaches. The authors explore the impact of these changes.

Educational software specialist, Birchfield Interactive CEO Jon Case explains how they are assisting local authorities with efficiency as well as effective personalised learning tools through their SCORM compliant software.

Universities and students alone cannot bring the skills and sustained economic development to local areas says Laura Williams from the Work Foundation as she explains how communities should approach attracting new universities in the area.

The Secretary of State for Innovation and Skills responds to questions from citizens on a wide range of issues ranging from research funding, brain drain to how government procurement could stifle innovation.

Futurelab argues that society has to empower young students by enabling them with the tools to become better citizens and make informed decisions about their lives and their communities.