Skills Board Welcomes Investment In Training
30th November, 2010
PLANS by the government to reform the further education and skills system to improve the performance of the economy have been welcomed by the Plymouth Employment and Skills Board.
Yesterday, Secretary of State for Business Vince Cable and Skills Minister John Hayes launched the Government’s strategy for skills, Skills for Sustainable Growth and Investing in Sustainable Growth.
The reports outline how the government will achieve its objectives through reform and strategic investment in further education and skills during the spending review period.
The government plans to expand adult Apprenticeships, fund basic skills courses for people who have left school without reading, writing and maths and establish an SME-focused programme to help small employers train low-skilled staff.
Graham Stirling, Chairman of the Plymouth Employment and Skills Board, said: “Ensuring individuals have the right skills is essential to get the economy back on track. While much public spending will be curtailed over the coming years, investment in skills and training is one area where we can’t afford to fall behind.
“We would like to see focus placed on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics training, and welcome the upskilling of our young people and commitment to Apprenticeships across age ranges.
“Small businesses make a large contribution to the local economy and to see this recognised by national government through investment in training for SMEs will be of particular value to the city.”
ENDS
