West Midlands needs a strong education and skills system – CBI
THE UK needs a strong education and skills system if it is to continue to grow the economy and compete in international markets, the regional head of the CBI has said.
Richard Butler, West Midlands Director, CBI, said: “Youngsters are often unaware of the range of options open to them when considering their careers. They can feel pressured into one ’golden route’ but there are many ways they can fulfil their potential. We think there are roles for both business and the education sector to highlight the opportunities.
“CBI has always been a strong advocate for improvements in the UK’s vocational education and training system and youngsters need to be encouraged to consider following these routes.”
The CBI has organised a regional conference on the importance of developing education and skills. The conference brings together all of the main parties and stakeholders, including the head of Ofsted.
“We are delighted that Sir Michael Wilshaw, whose organisation has such a key role in the whole issue, has agreed to be a keynote speaker,” added Butler.
The conference, Pathways to Success, will also hear from Professor Geoff Layer, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton; while there will also be contributions from Stewart Towe, chairman of the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership and of Hadley Group; Pippa Morgan, CBI’s Principal Policy Advisor on Early Years and Education; and Michael Nicol, Head of Employer & Delivery Service for the Skills Funding Agency. All will be discussing the routes to higher skills.
A further panel debate on the role for businesses will feature: Robin Fry, from Wedge Group Galvanizing, Stephanie Burras, from Ahead Partnership, Angela Joyce, of Warwickshire College and James Sopwith, of adi Group.
The conference takes place on October 22 at the St John’s Hotel, Solihull. Further information is available from:Fiona.newby@cbi.org.uk
