10.26 To date, the success of the largely voluntary approach to promoting learning at work, which currently operates in this country, has been patchy. Some employers invest extensively in staff learning, whilst others make very little provision. Reluctant employers have to be encouraged to recognise that investment in learning will not only meet short-term needs but also lay the foundation for long-term success. Individuals who have been discouraged from learning have to be convinced that it can be rewarding in reinforcing employment and career prospects, as well as contributing to personal fulfilment. Particular effort needs to be directed towards supporting lifelong learning in small businesses and amongst those who are self-employed.
10.27 One tried and successful approach in other matters, which could be adopted here, would be to establish a 'Code Good Practice for Workplace Learning'. The Code would set out guidelines and minimum standards for the promotion of workplace learning. It could contain three principal components to encouraging partnership and learning development at the workplace. First, the Code would propose the production of Workplace Policy Statements, drawn up by employers and setting out clearly their commitment to, and objectives for, workplace learning and an indication of how the objectives are to be achieved. Secondly, the Code would promote the establishment of Workplace Learning Committees or 'Forums', with equal representation from the employer and employees, with responsibility for developing and monitoring progress in achieving the objectives of the Policy Statement.
10.28 Thirdly, from this process, the Code could support the conclusion of Workplace Learning Agreements, or 'Compacts', between employers, employees and their representative organisations aimed at developing a learning culture for all at work. Such Learning Agreements or Compacts would define rights and responsibilities, in relation to workplace learning, for both employees and employers.
10.29 In the first instance, the specific requirements of the Code of Good Practice might be expected to apply to employers and organisations above an appropriate size, but all employers would be expected to engage in communication and consultation with employees on the Policy Statement on workplace learning.
10.30 We recommend that consideration be given to the development of a Code of Good Practice for Workplace Learning, initially to be applied only to workplaces above a given size. The aims of the Code would be to promote the production of Workplace Learning Policy Statements and the establishment of Workplace Learning Committees or Forums. The Code could also include measures to encourage the conclusion of Workplace Learning Agreements or 'Compacts' between employers and employees and their representative bodies.
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