"We hear a lot about the knowledge worker of the future. The government are keen to convince us that a culture of lifelong learning is critical to the future of the economy. But what does this mean in reality?

If the lessons of the US are applicable here it will mean a massive increase in the demand for flexible, adult, vocational education: over 25 year-olds wanting qualifications to further their career prospects.

Professional associations know their members. They are ideally placed to serve them by offering relevant and applicable recognised education. The question that remains is which of them will be sufficiently flexible and reactive to accept the challenge and realise their potential."

Alan Nelson - Managing Director, Nelson Croom