The 157 Group has responded to the publication of the CBI’s latest report, A Better Off Britain, which places skills, and vocational education, at the heart of a vision for creating a more prosperous and equal society.
Dr Lynne Sedgmore CBE, Executive Director of the 157 Group said, “The report is right to focus on the growing need for higher-level skills in the workforce, and particularly for technicians. A simplified, more collaborative funding system across Further and Higher Education, as well as clearer information on pathways, would benefit both learners and employers.
“The use of loans, and proposals to expand their coverage in further education, must be sensible, considered, and accompanied by an adult funding strategy which does not prevent or discourage people from retraining.
“The report’s focus on the need for a broad curriculum, which prepares students for the world of work, in school as well as in College, is absolutely central to the prospect of future economic prosperity. It is a welcome addition to the skills debate which moves us beyond a simple focus on apprenticeships.
“It is good to hear the voice of big business echoing much of what we have said in our own Future Colleges report – that higher level vocational education is vital to the economy - and that the CBI, along with the thousands of employers we work with, know that Colleges are critical to delivering that.”