[holding answer 3 July 2006]: The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) is responsible for funding post-16 education and training in schools and colleges. The LSC does not stipulate the training that is required by each funded learner to ensure their health and safety. Each learner’s complete learning programme should contain the appropriate personal health and safety training. It is a contractual responsibility of each school or college to determine what training is required and to ensure that this is delivered. Training should be in line with the result of risk assessment taking into account the environment, task, and the learner’s age, experience and any special requirements.
The LSC carries out “seeking assurance” activities to satisfy itself that every funded organisation that recruits learners is fulfilling their responsibilities with regard to health and safety. In addition and to spread good practice in health and safety, the LSC maintains a good practice website—where information and teaching materials are available on ensuring learner health and safety www.safelearner.info