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Better training needed, say NECC

The failure to implement strong training programmes in the regions’ high growth industries could severely impact on the future success of the North East.

A report from the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) entitled ‘Bridging the Gap’ highlights major skills gaps in literacy, numeracy and general employability among young people in the region.

NECC Chief Executive, James Ramsbotham, said: “A skilled workforce is the most critical contributor to the success and growth of a business.

“Put simply, businesses with skilled employees are likely to be more efficient, more productive and more sustainable.”

At an event, organised jointly by the the NECC, Teesside University and Gateshead College, representatives from all three organisations will also urge the need for unity between public and private sectors and training providers to carve out a future in high growth industries.

Key issues up for debate include funding, education, collaboration and brokerage, and it is hoped that it will enable the group to look for solutions to ongoing problems.

Mick Brophy, managing director for business, innovation and development at Gateshead College, said: “Our strategic training partnerships with leading employers like Nissan sees us train their workforce through apprenticeships and tailored training programmes to create a highly skilled team, enabling the company to secure its future.

“I’d urge as many businesses as possible to come along to this event to continue the debate on how we better bring education and business together to bridge the skills gap in our region.”

Laura Woods, director of academic enterprise at Teesside University, said: “We are fully committed to working in partnership with business and to boosting graduate employment prospects, and I greatly welcome this report and our involvement.”

The Bridging the Gap report formed part of a national Workforce Study of 1,200 businesses nationally by the British Chambers of Commerce, which also highlights areas where current legislation hampers growth.

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