England is considering higher employer contributions for older apprentices to favour younger trainees.

Welcome, then, to our imaginary lifelong-learning venue, where the future is open to everyone but the person at the door would like to check which everyone you are.

The fictional bouncer is not preventing anyone from learning. That would be an unfortunate misunderstanding. He is simply explaining that some potential comes with a different cover charge. Please do not make this difficult by continuing to possess potential after your discount has become inconvenient.

Inside, our imaginary motivational speaker declares that nobody ever stops growing. The bouncer makes a discreet note to clarify that this is an inspirational statement, not a funding commitment.

Supporting young people is a worthwhile aim. The comic marvel is the brochure’s ability to promise a boundless future while the entrance policy quietly consults a calendar.

Lifelong learning remains open. It is just standing next to a bouncer.