New initiative to give local businesses the edge in Gloucestershire

SGS College is leading a new, innovative project that hopes to support local businesses by identifying the skills gaps or training shortages within the region.

The Education Developing Gloucestershire’s Employability (EDGE) Project is a pioneering scheme that aims to make a difference to employability for the future by working with students, employers and education providers, focusing on the business and economic needs of Gloucestershire. The focus will be on identifying the skills gaps and shortages, as well as retaining the talent and knowledge in the county after graduating.

The EGDE group will engage at least 450 of Gloucestershire’s micro, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to ascertain how to make education in schools and college as well as careers, advice and guidance, more relevant to the real world of work.

The evidence gathered from the employers will be utilised to develop an innovative curriculum as well as an Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) offer for schools and colleges that will be relevant to the local economy and in line with the growth needs of the County. Through engaging with local businesses the project group will broker collaborative projects, work placements and internships lasting between three – six months enabling at least 575 students and graduates to gain industry relevant experience and skills.

Speaking about EDGE, Sara-Jane Watkins, Principal of SGS College said: “The EDGE project is an opportunity to create positive change and leave a lasting legacy for Gloucestershire.”

Project Manager, Lisa Hine said: “The success of the project will be determined by everyone involved working collaboratively. If you’re a business of 1-249 employees and wondering how you can get involved, please contact us without delay. There are limited numbers of businesses that can take advantage of this unique opportunity.”

The EDGE project, which is supported by GFirst LEP, the European Social Fund (ESF), Cirencester College, Gloucestershire College and Hartpury College, started in December 2016 and will continue through to July 2018, during which time there will be a challenging set of milestones with a clear objective of leaving a lasting legacy.

To get involved or find out more please contact Lisa Hine. Email: lisa.hine@sgscol.ac.uk or call: 07790 350417.