These priorities were intentionally chosen. They address persistent structural issues in education and training, as well as emerging pressures that shape skill development, recognition, and sustainability. By focusing here, the Foundation supports innovations that deliver meaningful, tangible benefits to learners, employers, and communities.

Improving access to training and employment for NEET young people

Too many young people remain Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), often facing multiple, overlapping barriers to progression. Re-engaging these individuals requires more than increasing provision; it requires approaches that recognise different starting points and connect learning to real employment opportunities.

The Foundation supports flexible pathways, employer engagement and local delivery - structuring support to meet NEET needs, not just new qualifications.

Accelerating high-quality green skills development

The transition to a greener economy is reshaping demand for skills across construction, energy and infrastructure. While demand continues to rise, access to high-quality, relevant training has not always kept pace.

By emphasising green skills, the Foundation seeks to meet employer needs and widen learner access. Addressing gaps means investing in facilities and expertise.

There is a clear equity dimension. Supporting innovation in green skills delivery can help ensure that emerging opportunities are open to those who might otherwise be excluded from new and growing sectors.

Using digital tools more effectively in learning and assessment

Digital technology is already embedded across education and training, yet its potential to improve access, consistency and learner support is far from fully realised. At the same time, rapid developments in areas such as artificial intelligence raise important questions around quality, ethics and implementation.

The Foundation targets purposeful use of technology to solve real problems. This reflects wider sector debates about how digital tools can enhance learning while maintaining trust and rigour.

Across all three priorities, the first funding cycle provides an opportunity to generate insights, building understanding of what works, where challenges remain and how innovation can strengthen the skills system over the longer term.