SKILLS AND EMPLOYABILITY
COLLABORATION IS THE KEY TO BRIDGING THE SKILLS GAP As educators, we have a responsibility to
The introduction of T Levels, the
equip young people with the skills and
technical-based qualifications for
knowledge employers are looking for
16 - 19-year-olds, provides a new blend
and ensure they are primed for industry
of study and work experience that
post-study.
will play a pivotal role in building the
Committed to building a skilled workforce, The City of Liverpool College tailors curriculum based on industry connections. In line with this, I have recently been appointed as the College’s first Commercial Director, to enhance industry relationships, gain insight into the needs
progression into higher level training. As more institutes begin introducing T Levels from September – the College’s offering covering digital, health, education, engineering and manufacturing – there’s huge scope for collaboration.
of business which can then be applied to
Alternatively, work placements are an
studies, and strengthen the connection
opportunity to inspire new perspectives
between student and employer.
among those within business. Young
While we’ve already made great progress in our city region, the impact of Covid-19, the increasing impact of digital innovation and the region’s commitment to net zero is central to our planning.
people bring fresh ideas which could open new and emerging markets for employers, along with helping employees increase their understanding of modern learning processes.
This will mean increased collaboration
The responsibility for upskilling, reskilling,
between the College and industry will be
and progressing our nation’s workforce is
essential if regional targets for economic
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talent pipeline into employment and
Peter Sandman Commercial Director at The City of Liverpool College
growth and productivity are to be met.
The challenge of skills and talent gaps continues to widen in key sectors and industry continue to experience barriers in bridging the training needs for a sustainable workforce.
workforce. Apprenticeships, for example,
Many institutes offer workplace opportunities for students which employers can utilise to source talent and assist in building the future unlock the potential of workers at all career stages, allowing employers to grow the talent and skills they need, and that’s a game changer for any business.
a duty that falls on us all – as educators and employers. By working together, we can blur the lines between academia and industry and ensure our next generation learners have the knowledge and skills required for the working world.
Find out more at www.liv-coll.ac.uk
