"Opening a window of opportunity equally to education and employment for all citizens lies at the heart of the Banbridge District’s Integrated Local Strategy. It affects every fabric of their lives and the area’s future."
Helen McLenaghan, Chief Executive, Southern Education and Library Board

Overview :: The concept of lifelong learning encompasses both education and training and promotes the idea that learning should be a continuous process for everyone throughout their lives. The Banbridge District has six post primary schools, some of which are considered to be among the top schools in Northern Ireland. The main funder of education is the Southern Education and Library Board. Action is needed to raise achievement in education and to explore how education can be more responsive to the needs of industry and commerce. Similarly, the business sector can help schools, colleges and training organisations to develop an enterprise culture and to equip young people for the labour market.

1. Improve the links between business and education.
2. Promote lifelong learning within Banbridge.
3. Promote improved guidance for learners in Banbridge.
4. Ensure the people of the District benefit from ICT training and development opportunities.
5. Promote improved co-ordination between all training providers within the District.

1. Promote the usage of the Educational Guidance Service for Adults (EGSA) network office for the Banbridge and Craigavon areas.
2. Implement the Rural Development Council funded project for the provision of basic ICT training within rural Banbridge.
3. Continue to provide the Government’s learndirect initiative in the District which offers free basic skills training to adults aged 18+.
4. Continue to provide current programmes being run by the Department of Education and Learning such as New Deal, Focus for Work, Job Skills and Modern Apprenticeships.
5. Carry out an employers’ survey across all businesses in the District.

1. Implement the People 1st project funded by The Bridge Partnership.
2. Develop solutions and possible programmes based on the recommendations arising from the employers’ survey.
3. Support the establishment of an Employers’ Forum within the District.