In an exclusive feature published in FE News in June 2024, Dame Julie Mellor, Chair of the Skills Federation (also known as Federation for Industry Sector Skills & Standards (FISSS)), sets out an action plan for change for the new government to address skills shortages and boost economic productivity.
“The skills sector plays a crucial role in providing the platform for individuals to advance their careers, driving productivity and economic growth as well as helping us meet the challenges ahead of technological changes, an ageing population and meeting net zero targets,” Dame Julie Mellor argues.
She presents a four-point action plan that has been developed through conversations with Skills Federation member colleagues, 19 sector skills bodies representing 150,000 UK employers. A national industrial strategy, developed in partnership and prioritizing skills critical for growth; a transformation in workforce development with an overhaul of the current apprenticeship levy; a flexible approach help different sectors design and develop different workforce development approaches and an improved careers strategy to set the direction and purpose of career development for young people and adults.
In conclusion, Dame Julie Mellor argues,
“By working better with industry to create a more effective and efficient skills system, the new government could create a more resilient, responsive and dynamic economy that aligns with industrial needs and supports economic growth.
“This will ensure that Britain is better equipped to meet future challenges and make improvements that can benefit the whole population. Embracing these recommendations and working with us to build a future-ready workforce will help drive productivity and the UK’s economic success.”
You can read the article here.
