SGS College and Business West to Host Skills Conference: Shaping Regional Skills Solutions

Building on the college's recent Ofsted outcome that highlighted it making a strong contribution to meeting regional skills needs, the highest judgement a college can receive, it is with excitement that SGS, in collaboration with Business West, announces their upcoming Skills Conference.

The conference will provide updates on strategic developments at SGS and the Local Skills Improvement Plans, whilst also offering practical opportunities for employers and other external stakeholders to engage in shaping our regional skills landscape.

Scheduled for Friday 28th June, the conference will focus on equipping delegates with the tools and insights needed to address the pressing skills shortages in our region. With over 4,000 young people, 1,000 apprentices, and 3,000 adults trained annually by SGS College, the need to align training with current and future workforce requirements has never been more crucial.

The event which is now open for registrations, will begin with a networking session, providing delegates with opportunities to connect and exchange insights. SGS Principal, Sara-Jane Watkins, will provide the opening address with attendees then having the chance to learn about innovative curriculum design strategies tailored to meet the evolving needs of the future workforce. They will also explore the pivotal role of apprenticeships as an integral part of a comprehensive workforce strategy. Additionally, delegates will discover how adult programs can empower the current workforce and foster talent for the future. Insights into the Local Skills Improvement Plan and its implications for skill development in our region will follow with a networking lunch presenting further opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange among participants.

Sara-Jane Watkins, Principal of SGS College, comments:

"We are thrilled to partner with Business West again for this year's Skills Conference. At SGS College, we are deeply committed to providing our students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today's rapidly evolving workforce. This conference presents a unique opportunity for employers, organisations, and stakeholders to come together and actively contribute to shaping the future of skills development in our region. Together, we can ensure that our students are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in their careers and drive economic growth in our community."

Matt Tudge, Head of Skills Planning at Business West, commented,

“Colleges and further education providers are training the future workforce. It's imperative that further education provision is more closely aligned to business needs, not only to benefit today's workforce, but to enhance the region's future. We're looking forward to sharing our work so far, as part of the Local Skills Improvement Plan, and engaging with attendees to shape the future of skills in Gloucestershire.”