Edge Annual Lecture
Following an introduction from Edge Chairman Lord Baker, Shadow Education Secretary, Stephen Twigg addressed an audience of educationalists, employers, MPs and others involved in the world of education.
Stephen Twigg MP said; "It is a pleasure to be delivering my first key note speech as Shadow Education Secretary at an Edge Foundation event. Few have done so much to raise the status of technical, practical and vocational education. There will always be differences between the parties on Education Policy but if we can achieve a greater national consensus on the key areas of the future curriculum and the quality of teaching that will be a very positive development. The challenges are clear: Delivering high status, rigorous pathways in vocational education. Addressing the Literacy and Numeracy levels post 16, which obstruct personal development and act as a barrier to economic progress. And fostering high class and high status institutions- such as the UTCs that are striving to become the exemplar model - in vocational education. I look forward to working with the Edge Foundation and others to meet these challenges." Stephen Twigg MP spoke about increasing pathways, policy on vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, UTCs and vehicles of delivery as well as the Wolf report. Edge CEO, Jan Hodges said; "I am delighted Stephen Twigg chose the Edge annual lecture as the platform for his first speech since he was appointed as Shadow Education Secretary. Edge is fortunate to have such strong support across all political parties. Edge champions technical, practical and vocational learning and shows how it leads to inventive, rewarding careers. Stephen pointed out that practical and technical education deserves its place alongside the very best academic learning. We look forward to Stephen's support in the future." Download Stephen Twigg's speech and the subsequent Q&A. View images from the lecture