Message from Laurence Blackhall, CEO

ContinYou is determined to ensure that the benefits of learning are available to all.

ContinYou’s work is aimed at playing a principal role in the creation of a learning nation: where learning is accessible to all and each individual recognises the value of learning, where learning is prized by agencies and organisations in the public, private and voluntary sectors.

The rewards gained from learning cannot be measured simply by qualifications or economic growth. They stretch well beyond this, into health, self-esteem and confidence, personal well-being and safer and more satisfying lives.

Research has demonstrated that there is a significant correlation between attitudes to learning and such things as diet, exercise, general health and well-being, participation in the life of the community as well as personal income. Even if being positive about learning doesn’t guarantee a longer life and riches, the evidence is that it certainly helps.

The biggest problem is that too many people are turned off by learning and have not been involved in a planned or organised way since leaving school. This is especially the case in our disadvantaged neighbourhoods.

It is ContinYou’s ambition to see an end to this kind of exclusion. By developing innovative projects, consultancies and other work, we seek to transform attitudes to learning and raise levels of participation, especially in deprived communities.

Learning is the route to social justice and a sustainable means for tackling many of the challenges faced by individuals and communities. ContinYou wants to be at the centre of devising and advancing learning that engages all and bestows its benefits far and wide.

Laurence Blackhall
Chief Executive Officer