New partnership aims to 'rewrite' skills training

An education alliance has launched promising to “revolutionise the approach to skills training”.

The Further Education partnership has been unveiled by West Yorkshire mayor Tracy Brabin and seven colleges.

They say the venture will help “upskill students into local jobs to support businesses and grow the economy” across sectors including financial and professional services, advanced manufacturing and health and life sciences.

They add the move will see participating colleges strengthen relationships with local businesses to respond to skills needs, with courses co-created to “guarantee direct pathways into good jobs”.

Bradford College, Calderdale College, the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group and Kirklees College are part of the endeavour.

The Leeds College of Building, Shipley College and Luminate Education Group, which includes Leeds City College and Keighley College, are also involved in the programme.

Mayor Brabin said: “We’re building a region of learning and creativity, with our seven excellent colleges equipping our residents with the skills they need to flourish.

“But to realise the enormous potential of our economy, we must revolutionise our approach to skills training, with a relentless focus on the jobs and the sectors of the future.

“By working in partnership with business, we’ll ensure every college graduate has a clear pathway into employment, supporting them to put more money in their pockets and contribute to a stronger, brighter economy.”

David Malone, principal of Calderdale College and chair of the West Yorkshire Consortium of Colleges, added: “Skills are the cornerstone of an inclusive and thriving economy.

“By equipping our learners with the right skills, we not only empower them, but unlock growth and prosperity for the entire region.

“As further education colleges, we stand ready to meet these demands and ensure our workforce can seize these opportunities.”

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