26 Jan 2024

College seeks industry and education business collaboration

Nancy Buckley .JPG

Solihull College & University Centre has announced they are looking for businesses to collaborate with for their brand-new Employer Advisory Boards.

The College believes that fostering strong partnerships with industry leaders is essential for the success of their students, as well as ensuring that you have the skills you need within your existing teams. As business leaders, they value your insights and expertise in shaping the educational experiences they offer. 

The success of an organisation relies on its people having the right skills for it to thrive. 

Nancy Buckley (pictured) is the College’s Vice Principal for Business Growth, Skills and Partnerships. She is passionate about creating strong links between further education and business and believes it is becoming increasingly vital due to the following factors: 

The Talent Pipeline 

FE colleges play a crucial role in developing a skilled workforce by offering vocational courses, apprenticeships, and specialised training programmes. Businesses can tap into a rich pool of talent and ensure a steady stream of skilled professionals. 

Promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

FE Colleges often have a diverse student base, representing various backgrounds, ethnicities and abilities. Collaborating with colleges can help businesses tap into this diverse talent pool and foster an inclusive work environment. 

Embracing CSR  

Businesses can collaborate with colleges on projects such as community outreach programs, environmental sustainability initiatives, or support for underprivileged students. 

Establishing Long-Term Partnerships  

By engaging in regular dialogue and involvement, companies can understand the evolving needs of colleges and align their strategies accordingly – maximising the benefits of collaboration. 
 
Nancy said: “As we focus on the identified skills shortages in our region, we’re inviting collaboration and industry expertise. We are in the process of building brand new Employer Advisory Boards which will play a critical role in guiding our future direction and ensuring that our curriculum remains relevant, up-to-date, and aligned with the needs of employers.

“We are excited about the potential impact of our Employer Advisory Boards and their significance in ensuring our offer meets industry needs.”

If you’d like to explore opportunities for working with the College, please complete this short Expression of Interest form. 

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