Lessons to promote economic growth

Thursday 10 April 2014

Teenagers from 14 could start vocational training earlier at a £3 million skills centre to get the qualifications to launch a career in construction or the motor trade under new proposals.

At the moment teenagers can choose from a variety of vocational tasters at Highlands College from engineering to hair and beauty but a specialist centre would give them the opportunity to learn a trade and at the same time develop their employability skills.

The plan is part of the Skills for Success strategy which aims to give children the start they need to help them become highly skilled workers when they leave school.

It's been put together by the Ministers of Education Sport and Culture, Economic Development and Social Security who want to see young people getting good careers and making a positive contribution to the Island, supporting its economic growth.

They plan to do a feasibility study first to look at the idea in more detail.

Education Minister and Skills Executive Chairman Pat Ryan said: “We want to provide better opportunities for everyone to improve their skills and in doing so to encourage innovation, creativity and increase productivity.”

As part of the strategy the Ministers want to make sure the best teachers are recruited in schools, get States departments working together to promote strong early development for children under 5 and review what’s being taught in secondary schools to make sure its up to scratch. And they want to set aside £2 million per year to make sure there's extra support for anyone who's falling behind and not getting the grades in English and Maths.

Their strategy also aims to encourage lifelong learning – offering support for employers in training their staff, and it aims to tackle the Island’s unemployment and fill leadership and management skills gaps across local industries.  

Economic Development Minister Alan Maclean said: “Learning and skills development is critical for individuals and the community. They are vital to the future of our Island if we are to stimulate sustainable economic growth.”

Social Security Minister Francis Le Gresley said: “Skills are essential for sustainable economic growth, personal success and a strong, cohesive community. For individuals, skills can lead to more satisfying and rewarding work, transform lives and drive social mobility. This in turn benefits society. Higher skilled workers positively influence productivity, earn higher wages, pay more taxes and need less support.”

The funding needed would come from the Medium Term Financial Plan if approved by the States.

The Skills Executive was set up in 2008 to coordinate States departments and make sure the Island is getting the best out of its workforce.