At the start of 2025 the UK is at a critical juncture, with recent government actions signalling a renewed focus on tackling the pressing skills challenges facing our economy. In an exclusive article for FE News, Fiona Aldridge, CEO of Skills Federation, set out her views on why the year ahead offers huge potential for positive change.
Fiona highlights three key areas for progress in skills development that could help address core challenges facing UK industries today.
The Industrial Strategy Green paper, working alongside the Post 16 Skills strategy, offers the opportunity to bring much-needed structure to skills policy decision-making. The Growth and Skills levy, with its welcome flexibility, will help to change the narrative around employer investment in workforce skills development. And the creation of a new jobs and careers service, with active involvement from employers and sector skills bodies, has potential to offer an effective service to employers and individuals.
Fiona concludes:
“2025 offers a pivotal opportunity to reshape the UK’s skills system. By working in partnership with employers and sector skills bodies, we can create a workforce that not only meets the demands of emerging industries, but also drives long-term economic growth and prosperity.
“Now is the time to build a workforce that is adaptable, resilient and prepared for the challenges ahead. Together, we can create a skills system that drives growth, embraces innovation and enables individuals to access rewarding careers.”
You can read the full article here.
