On the 26 April at Newmarket Racecourse we held the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP Co.llaboration Event, which showcased the extensive employer engagement which has taken place, detailing the analysis and key findings in which businesses are communicating the regions skills gaps and needs. We heard from businesses and stakeholders through panel discussions about the challenges being faced by employers, LSIP Theme Analysis Findings and Colleges & Provider Solutions to Skills Priorities. There were opportunities for the audience to put questions to the panels which created engaging conversation. The conversations that took place are key in enabling us to develop the programme to suit the region’s needs. It was clear all shared the passion, determination, and desire to support skills development to meet the future skills needs. Key messages from the day:
- It was clear that apprenticeships are still a key focus for local providers within the region and this was demonstrated by Harry Harris of SWARM who shared his enthusiasm and willingness to support businesses with apprenticeships.
- There is a need for consistent language to be used in the skills landscape with clear definitions of where to access skills and funding our employer panel made up of local businesses of all sizes echoed these comments.
- Encouragement of the coming together or private and FE training providers, to further support the local skills required for businesses to continue to grow in Norfolk and Suffolk
- Nova Fairbank (Norfolk Chambers CEO) provided an update on next steps, which included many of the themes of the day – greater sharing of works well, encouragement of closing working relationships between business and the further education sector, aligned with national and local polices.
Now is the time to keep the momentum going and to drive the skills agenda forward in true LSIP Co.llaboration style. A big thank you to our brilliant hosts John Dugmore – CEO of Suffolk Chambers of Commerce, Nova Fairbank CEO of Norfolk Chambers of Commerce and Dean Pierpoint, LSIP Project Manager of Norfolk Chambers of Commerce, along with our fantastic panellists, everyone who attended and to Newmarket Racecourse for providing such a great venue and service. For more information on the programme, please email [email protected] Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP LinkedIn Group: Stay connected with the latest research, surveys, events, news and discussions
