Putting learning at work at the heart of sustainable workplaces

This is the Campaign for Learning’s 9th annual national workplace learning awareness campaign, and it is hoped that organisations and employees will use Thursday 22 May to learn skills and working practices that will not only help sustain the planet in environmental terms but also help them make changes that result in business benefits. Through this one day of workplace learning, co-ordinators the Campaign for Learning, hope employers will begin to see the business benefits of staff development. Learning new skills and recognising those that already exist creates a loyal and motivated workforce leading ultimately to business success. Under the umbrella theme of Sustainable Workplaces resources will be provided around three different strands to help workplaces make positive changes, both internally and externally, to benefit organisations, employees and the wider community and economy. The environmental strand will look at what organisations can learn about green issues and how employees can learn by interacting with the community they live and work in (see picture). The work/life balance strand will help employers develop good practice and procedures that can lead to healthy, productive and motivated employees. And the learning throughout life strand will explore how to develop transferable “soft” skills and the vital Skills for Life needed by everyone in the work force in light of the growing aging population and the constant changing workplace. The messages behind Learning at Work Day are as serious as ever. The need to work towards sustainable workplaces and ensure adequate skills development for all employees is a real business issue. But Learning at Work Day as always also emphasises the fact that learning can be fun – the co-ordinators believe the best way to learn effectively is to enjoy the learning experience. Anything goes for Learning at Work Day that helps organisations learn and grow, and meets their business objectives and training needs. Information about Learning at Work Day 2008 is already available online and activity ideas, downloadable resources and publicity materials will be ready shortly. Organisations wanting to register their interest can call now on 0870 350 2345.