It comes courtesy of a series of employer events being staged by West Nottinghamshire College as it seeks to “re-connect” with the local business community and kick-start a discussion about how the two can work together more closely.
Each of the forthcoming events will update attendees on a specific theme or topic – from apprenticeships and preparing young people for employment, to the college’s role in the community.
They will be held on the following dates and times:
The events will begin with a brief presentation on the topic followed by a group discussion and the opportunity to ask questions. Meanwhile, specialists from the college’s apprenticeship service and curriculum teams will be on hand to speak to attendees on an individual basis.
Each will run for one hour, is free to attend, and be held at the Derby Road campus, Mansfield, NG18 5BH. Refreshments will be provided.
Louise Knott, vice-principal for communications, engagement and student experience, said: “The college is committed to localising its provision for the communities of Mansfield and Ashfield, particularly around apprenticeships and the work it does with employers, along with getting young people work-ready.
“These events will give employers an opportunity to hear about our revised offering and help shape our current thinking, not just on apprenticeships but also our curriculum for full-time students and how it meets business need.
“It’s also a chance to learn about new developments within the apprenticeships arena and how these could benefit their business while sharing with them new and emerging aspects of our provision.
“For example, we will launch our digital apprenticeships at the events in June, where employers can talk to us about how they can improve the digital skills within their companies through these.
“At the following event in July we’ll unveil a pioneering framework we’ve developed with a small group of employers to ensure students are prepared for the world of work and possess the skills and attributes that meet their expectations.
“So there are lots of exciting developments to update people on, as well as kick-start a meaningful discussion.”
Ms Knott insisted the college was keen to play an even greater role in the area’s regeneration and economic prosperity, and forge partnerships with businesses of all sizes.
“We see this as an opportunity to re-connect with local employers and give them a voice in the college’s strategy moving forward,” she said.
“Mansfield and Ashfield have huge potential in terms of regeneration and economic prosperity – but in order to realise that potential, it’s vital that skills and training sit at the heart of it.
“This is about the college saying ‘we want to be part of this community’s future’ and work in partnership with employers to achieve that.”
Businesses can book their free place at any of the events by contacting Lindsay Donnelly at lindsay.donnelly@wnc.ac.uk or on 01623 627191 ext. 8019. For further information visit www.wnc.ac.uk/employerevents