In order to prosper in today’s economy, local communities increasingly need to ensure that they adequately invest in education and skills. Higher-level skills, such as the ability to analyse and process complex information, be creative and communicate effectively, are all increasing in importance in the context of the knowledge-based economy. In addition, the recent economic downturn has shown more than ever the value of investing in skills as a means of retaining employment in difficult times. It is more and more likely that future jobs will demand higher skills levels, as low-skilled jobs are lost and redefined in the current restructuring process.