Learning our lessons: the future of education and training in Britain

Britain has no acceptable future other than as a successful manufacturing nation; its position within the European Community of nations does not alter that fact. The extent of its success will be determined by the quality of the workforce, and that will depend upon education and training. The author reviews how the social and educational history of Britain has divided the nation and led to the present poor performance of its industries. The state of education and vocational training is contrasted with that in Germany, the key economic competitor. Proposals are made for the progressive improvement in position, based upon a coherent approach to schools, higher education and the provision of vocational training. The role that the Institution of Electrical Engineers can play in this most critical national task is identified