Generation Y

As a Director of a vocational training provider, I was pleased to see Jane Simms’ article in the October issue stress the importance of vocational training and education. 

Jane’s arguments: That young people’s introduction to the workplace needs careful management; that there is an excessive focus on academic qualifications at the expense of vocational qualifications and that apprenticeships are potentially powerful development opportunities, all resonate with our experience and the experience of our employer partners.

Like many other training providers, we run apprenticeships and other vocational programmes that are designed to accurately meet the needs of employers looking to recruit young people.  We recognise the flawed “coaching for examination success” approach to some secondary education and our approach is to transform these undoubtedly talented young people from students to work-ready employees, ready to give value from their earliest days in a job. 

Correct attitudes to employment and the workplace, the ability to solve real problems and a willingness to learn and improve are attributes our employers seek above an exemplary academic record.  In return, those employers are willing to invest time and money in the continued education and training of suitable candidates.  There is a wealth of government funding available for such programmes, limiting the financial cost for many employers.  However, Jane is right to warn that if employers see this resource as cheap, it will not be valued.  Growing your own workforce in your company’s image is often a wise investment but takes time and resources.  There are many excellent training providers who can advise on funding contributions and will work in partnership with employers to assist developing young people.

Ian Harper

Director of Learning & Skills