MK College Group addressing the skills gap – fully funded learning opportunities through SkillsHub:MK
Milton Keynes businesses are set to benefit from a new initiative to deliver FREE courses that will help them rapidly upskill or recruit new employees.
Launching today as part of a nationwide Government initiative MK College Group is leading a pioneering effort to plug the local skills gap and boost access to high-quality training options.
The SkillsHub:MK is offering FREE training courses, that are employer driven and set to respond to local business skills needs. The courses will be delivered through remote online study – offering greater flexibility in how and when trainees learn.
The ‘well reported’ skills gap is preventing employers from finding the talent they need. Recruiting is taking longer than ever with many businesses abandoning their searches and opting for more costly solutions of outsourcing or using consultants.
The SkillsHub:MK objective is to forge strong engagement and partnerships between employers, businesses, and post 16 providers. This collaboration will design training that will better prepare workers in the key areas of
leadership and management, digital and AI technical skills. This will help shape the future of the training provision in Milton Keynes and provide employers with the skilled workforce they need to fill jobs, now and in the future. MK College Group has appointed, Anna Clarke, Director of employer engagement and partnerships, to spearhead business engagement. She plans to ensure that FREE training is accessible to a greater range of MK businesses. Anna said, “Fundamentally we are moving away from a supply-driven delivery, to build a skills eco-system around small networks of employers. Collaboration is key and will place training providers and local employers’ side by side.
We are encouraging Milton Keynes business to register their interest on the website.” www.SkillsHubMK.co.uk At the centre of the SkillsHub:MK is skills match service, bespoke training solutions that is designed for and centric to business. This offers the opportunity to identify which areas will have the greatest impact on business growth.
To ensure business has selected the right training for their organisation. Understanding and evaluating what training each business requires will ensure the biggest benefit to their employees. To complete the Training Needs Assessment (TNA), visit www.SkillsHubMK.co.uk/tna
The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) understanding is a significant gap in Milton Keynes businesses’ knowledge. Business owners fail to see its potential influence on skills shortage. We hope to achieve a connected world where business is able to access skills and to push these back into the education system. The initiative led by MK College Group and supported by South Central Institute of Technology, includes Biz Tech, Milton Keynes Artificial Intelligence (MKAI), The Open University, Cranfield University, MK Council and Chamber MK – who together are contributing to the education programs and skills growth across the network.
The MK College Group plans to work with local employers to ensure large and SME businesses will be able to gain in demand new skills – and bridge the gaps in their business. Available to all Milton Keynes businesses, with priority given to those who register first.