Residents’ views are sought on lifelong learning in the county.

Essex County Council is considering changes to the way it delivers its educational provision and has published a new strategy with a number of main priorities. They include allowing residents to learn throughout their lives, employer-driven skills, ensuring every child achieves good development in early years, and every child being able to go to a good or outstanding school.

Essex County Cllr Stephen Castle said: “While we currently have all of the required elements of education provision, ranging from early years through to adult community learning, this provision is not joined up and does not holistically tackle the needs of the community.

“As cabinet member for education and lifelong learning, I have a vision for the county which delivers a highly skilled workforce and I pledge to invest time and energy in ensuring Essex’s education and skills systems compare with the best in the world.”

Residents have until December 21 to have their views on the strategy, which can be found at www.essex.gov.uk/lifelonglearning.