The impact of further education learning (2024)

A review of existing research papers identified the non-financial benefits from further education and training, including improvements in:

• health and wellbeing
• social interactions and cohesion
• social mobility
• communication and independence
• reduced crime

A telephone survey of 4,000 people in further education and training measured the financial and non-financial benefits of further education and training. It also explored:

• the role and effectiveness of information, advice and guidance provided to students
• reasons for undertaking the course
• expectations in relation to their outcomes
• attitudes towards further education loans
• willingness to pay for further education
• what might have happened in the absence of publicly funded training

The analysis suggests financial outcomes improve as a result of learning, demonstrated through:

• employment outcomes and prospects
• earnings
• having the necessary skills to undertake their job more efficiently and effectively than would otherwise be the case

Non-financial benefits include:

• changes in self-confidence or self-esteem
• an increased likelihood of becoming more involved in the local community
• a greater ability to make better use of spare time
• a greater focus or understanding of what learners want to with their lives
• more enthusiasm about, and potential uptake of, further education and learning
• enhanced interaction between people of different generations through an improved ability to assist children with school work
• being better able to manage health issues or disabilities
• improved wellbeing and happiness

The analysis suggests the non-financial benefits are significant and greater than the financial (and more quantifiable) benefits. It supports government investment in further education and skills as a way to generate long term economic growth and better social interaction.

Underlying data for this report is also available.