The vision of a Lifelong Learning University perpetuates universities’ central role as power houses of knowledge while emphasising democratic access as well as community-oriented policies, strategies and pedagogies. Lifelong Learning Universities are characterised by a new relationship with students. Such universities are flexible with regard to access, recognising non-traditional qualifications as significant indicators of potential. Lifelong Learning Universities are flexible with regard to accreditation of prior learning, recognising that in many areas skills and knowledge gained through work and other activities are as valuable as traditional university qualifications. Lifelong Learning Universities are also flexible with regard to curriculum, acknowledging that a diverse range of student needs has to be met and that timetables should not restrict flexibility.