Member Article

Get involved in developing your future workforce

From September this year, students in Newcastle will be among the first young people in the country to study the government’s new Diplomas, a qualification which aims to bridge the gap between theoretical and practical learning.

Newcastle is one of only ten local authorities nationally to have been approved to pilot all of the first five Diploma lines to be launched: Construction and the Built Environment; Engineering; Society, Health & Development; Creative & Media and Information Technology.

Over 5000 employers have been involved in the development of the Diplomas ensuring that the qualifications will equip students with the attributes and skills necessary to progress successfully into employment or university.

Gillian Bulman, Chief Executive of Newcastle Education Business Partnership (NEBP), said: “The advent of Diplomas provides many new opportunities for companies of all sizes to influence the skills and knowledge of young people whilst developing new recruitment channels, enhancing the company’s image and reputation and contributing to their corporate social responsibility.”

Peter Mawer, NEBP Project Manager, said: “The Diplomas have been designed to be delivered in a collaborative way and local consortia are encouraged to develop models which benefit the students and companies of the region best. For example, employers/employees from the largest or smallest companies in the region giving a talk on their job/industry will bring to life the theory being taught in school. Or hosting a student on a work placement would pull together the course and enhance their employability skills.

“There is no minimum or maximum level of involvement from companies; all involvement will be valued and will build towards giving students the head start they need to succeed in employment or higher education.”

Companies in Newcastle are invited to find out more about the Diplomas and how to get involved by attending the Diploma Launch on Tuesday 29 April at St James’ Park. For more information contact NEBP on 0191 277 4444 or e-mail peter.mawer@newcastle.gov.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .