Employer involvement develops work-ready students
Employer engagement and practical learning develops rounded, work-ready students with improved technical skills.
University Technical Colleges (UTCs) have claimed project-based learning and employer involvement embedded in curriculum design creates more well-rounded, work-ready students with better technical skills.
UTCs are schools focused on delivering technical education, as well as core curriculum subjects, to 14-19 year olds.
Research found students at UTCs develop improved ‘soft-skills’, such as communication and resilience, alongside enhanced technical skills when compared to other schools and colleges. Employers involved in their education described them as “young professionals ready for work”.
The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) reported “by far the most important factor employers weigh up when recruiting school and college leavers is their attitude to work (89%) and aptitude for work (66%)”. Formal qualifications come much lower in their priorities (23%).
What can we learn?
Although Somerset may not have any UTCs at present, we can learn from this research – employer involvement in schools and colleges help to foster a better soft and technical skilled workforce.
25% of all UTC leavers go straight in to apprenticeships - as compared to 5% nationally (DfE destination data 2016). 92% of UTC apprenticeship destinations are STEM related.
78% of UTC students choosing Higher Education (HE) study STEM related courses – against a national figure of 22%.
In UTCs only 1% of leavers are not in employment, education or training (NEET), compared to 8% nationally.
Get involved
The CBI comments:
“For the 14-19 age group employers believe a top priority for schools and colleges should be developing awareness of working life with support from businesses”.
There is plenty of opportunity in Somerset to help support our young people and develop a well-rounded, skilled workforce for the future. Employers can mentor students, invite schools to tour their premises, give assembly talks and practical demonstrations in school or offer short-term and/or extended work experience placements.
Contact us and help create a prosperous Somerset fit for the future.
Released On 19th Sep 2018