We are putting £1.33 million into smashing barriers to work and learning for all ages.
This is the Essex Year of Opportunity. It involves projects and partnerships with businesses to help residents learn essential skills.
It links to the Greater Essex Local Skills Improvement Plan we built with employers. They told us recruiting skilled workers is a top priority.
The new funding will support:
- meaningful employer engagements with 36,000 children
- training more teachers to support career readiness
- 535 more adults into employment
- 350 more people to start apprenticeships, up from 400 per year
- 100,000 meaningful interactions between residents and employers in key growth sectors
- the number of businesses confident in recruiting skilled staff
The Essex Year of Opportunity has so far resulted in:
- a directory of free courses, certificates, resources and skills hubs for residents
- a speech-recognition app helping children develop skills throughout the Summer Reading Challenge
- a charter enabling businesses to donate used electronics, helping residents get online
- a free support programme for those not currently in work and facing barriers
Councillor Tony Ball, our Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong learning and Employability, said: “Essex is an ambitious and innovative county, but it only thrives when its people thrive. Residents of all ages should have endless opportunities to expand their skills and follow their passions without barriers.
“Essex is one of the largest areas in England. It has a population of over 1.8 million people, of which 62.2% are working age.
“Bridging the skills gap will not only enrich the lives of individuals – it will help create a thriving economy where businesses can feel confident about hiring skilled workers. I look forward to seeing more projects and partnerships from the Essex Year of Opportunity over the coming months.”