Beyond Labour: Insights from Conservative, Lib Dem and Reform party conferences
Following last week’s reflections from Labour Party Conference, this week we’re turning our attention to the other party conferences we attended this season - Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Reform UK**.
Each offered insight into how education, skills and opportunity are being discussed across the political spectrum - and what that could mean for the future of young people in England.
Conservative Party Conference: AI & Devolution
At Conservative Party Conference, two strong themes stood out: AI and devolution.
Devolution was widely seen as an opportunity for stronger collaboration and economic growth. Even in a sometimes adversarial political climate, there was cross-party recognition of the power of place-based working, with Conservative panellists openly praising the work of Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester.
AI, meanwhile, was positioned as both a challenge and an opportunity – a key to solving the country’s productivity problem and a way to tackle poverty through future skills.
Naomi, who sits on our Youth Steering Group, spoke powerfully on a panel hosted by The King’s Trust in her role as one of their ambassadors: “So many young people want to learn about AI and upskill but the digital divide is holding them back”.
Liberal Democrats: Wellbeing and Inclusion
At Liberal Democrats Party Conference, the theme of children’s wellbeing was front and centre – seen as vital both for learning and for a healthier, more productive society. This aligns with our policy priority of securing a national wellbeing measurement programme as part of the Our Wellbeing, Our Voice coalition.
We were proud to see one of our YSG members join a panel co-hosted by The Difference and Impetus, on Making Inclusion Count: Real Impact for Every Child.
Reform UK: A growing influence
Reform UK is still developing its education policy platform. However, the top policy priority, which was put forward when questioned, was to remove the VAT on private schools.
The party continues to grow rapidly, with More in Common analysis suggesting its supporters now closely resemble the “average” English voter. This growing influence is already shaping the wider political conversation and will likely do so into the next election cycle.
Looking ahead
Across these conferences, two unifying messages stand out: building solutions around place and the changing world of work.
Our Neighbourhood to National strategy offers a north star through these shifting political landscapes – guiding how we collaborate across localities and sectors in the best interests of children and young people, so they can thrive in life and contribute to a stronger economy and democracy.
As conversations across parties turn increasingly to the future of work, we also have an opportunity to lead from the front, ensuring every young person is equipped for the jobs of tomorrow.
Join our AI Working Group to explore how technology can be used to close the gap.
Get involved in our Jobs for Tomorrow thematic collaboration to connect with others shaping young people’s future skills and opportunities.
Jane Fernandes
Collective Action and Advocacy Manager
**Note: This year, we attended party conferences where the party holds more than 10% of MPs or metro mayors. As a result, we did not attend the Green Party Conference, though we recognise the growing relevance of the Green Party’s positions in shaping political debate.
