Skilled for the future
We want an education system that is truly inclusive, closes the skills gap, helps our young people into great jobs, and supports our older generations in lifelong learning.
Opportunities
Central Bedfordshire is home to a number of world-leading companies, many based alongside the globally recognised Cranfield University. There is an opportunity for employers to have more direct involvement in supporting routes to employment.
We can identify skills gaps that may exist in the future and target programmes and education early.
Despite the impact of Covid-19, we expect continued economic growth and investment in the region. There will be a continued need to access future funding to support job growth, strengthen employment pathways, and provide continuous training and development.
Challenges
Central Bedfordshire currently possesses a notable concentration of globally significant, knowledge-intensive industries (such as digital technology, high-tech engineering, and aerospace). If the existing skills deficit persists, retaining these businesses may prove challenging.
A continued skills gap could make Central Bedfordshire a less attractive location for future investment.
Being surrounded by larger, well-connected settlements such as Milton Keynes and Bedford, there is a risk that our educated and skilled workforce could seek opportunities elsewhere.
Trends
Teenage education
In 2017, 93.4% of all 16 and 17-year-olds were participating in education, employment or training — up by 0.9% compared to the end of January 2016 (92.5%).
A skills deficit
Central Bedfordshire is facing a considerable skills deficit, with 34% of employers reporting that young people are “poorly” prepared for work — higher than the national average.
Existing facilities
There are 18 colleges catering for 16–18 year-olds. Meanwhile, Cranfield University is the UK’s largest provider of postgraduate engineering courses.
Job-related training
A snapshot of job-related training shows an improving trend. The number of employees receiving training increased from 8.1% in March 2014, to 10.5% in March 2016, and 14.4% in March 2018.
As the economy changes, lifelong learning is becoming increasingly important — allowing people to learn and develop throughout their working lives.