A new government body focused on skills development in the UK, Skills England, was announced in July 2024, and the Department for Education has released an initial report titled “Skills England: Driving growth and widening opportunities”. This report provides insights into the body’s potential focus and direction.
The creation of Skills England demonstrates the government’s serious commitment to skills development. This commitment is further reinforced by Sir Keir Starmer’s emphasis on the role of skills in economic growth during his speech at the Labour Party Conference.
While the report doesn’t outline specific policies, it sets the scene for Skills England’s potential approach:
- Addressing skills gaps: The report highlights the disparity between employer-demanded skills and those supplied by the current system.
- Essential employment skills: There’s a focus on foundational capabilities that enable competent performance across all work areas.
The sport, physical activity, and activities sectors have significantly impacted those areas aligned with Skills England’s focus.
- Skills gap analysis: Over 1,000 employers have been involved in identifying needed skills.
- Education and training: The sector is working to shape provisions to meet employer needs.
- Addressing transferable skills: The sector is tackling shortages in areas like leadership, customer service, and safeguarding.
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