Beyond Good Intentions: Why Employer‑Led Pathways Still Fall Short and What Must Change
The recent FE News special feature for Youth Employment Week rightly celebrated the employers who are working hard to open doors for young people, showcasing...
This is the Skills and Apprenticeships News category page on FE News. This is a page that has pooled together thought leadership articles and videos from influencers and key decision makers discussing future skills policy, how skills can solve the productivity puzzle, the latest developments in Apprenticeships and skills for the jobs of the future and how technology is transforming the core or essential skills for the jobs of the future as we are now in the fourth industrial revolution. Here is the place to explore the latest ideas and skills strategies from leaders across the World of Further Education, Skills and Apprenticeships.
So if you are interested in finding out the latest strategies, expert opinions and developments from the Apprenticeship Levy, to the Growth and Skills Levy News, APAR, lifelong learning, micro-credentials, Degree apprenticeships or qualification reform and skills policy news. Then you are in the right place. Check out the latest opinion pieces, thought leadership, videos and skills strategies from experts across the World of Apprenticeships, Skills and Work Based Learning. FE News is a platform, so the thought leadership articles are from actual Apprenticeship industry professionals, rather than through the lens of a reporter or editor. This is why the content on FE News is truly the voice of the FE and Skills Sector.
Apprenticeships provide talent pipelines with in-demand skills crucial for future growth. Work-integrated learning moulds adaptable workers as jobs evolve. Apprentices gain relevant experience by bypassing graduate skills gaps. Custom programs matched to business priorities also promote diversity and social mobility. Competency measures further shift focus to capabilities over qualifications. Government incentives and industry partnerships in areas with acute shortages reinforce the value of developing talent via apprenticeships at all career stages.
Evaluate skills gaps and ageing. Build versatility in digital, data, and regulatory domains to minimise shortage risks and keep institutional knowledge despite turnover. Also, focus on inclusive leadership.
Automation and AI first policies will transform most jobs, prioritising human skills in problem-solving across disciplines. Human creativity, empathy and teamwork will productively integrate with efficiency. Technical skills should connect humanities and STEM.
Skills audits, micro-learning, and mentor guidance enabled through internal job rotations and external partnerships. Leaders should exemplify continuous learning. Incentivise upskilling via subsidised classes in emerging domains. Promote peer coaching too.
Discover more insights and strategies on FE skills and apprenticeships by exploring our latest articles, videos, and resources below.
New City College has been announced as a Finalist College in the prestigious Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Awards 2025/26, recognised for its outstanding commitment…
Dave Piper, Managing Director at Barnwood Limited, responds to the Budget and its implications for skills and education The Chancellor’s Budget reaffirmed the Government’s commitment…
A college principal today backed the Government’s apprenticeship scheme expansion saying institutions like hers have a “social and moral responsibility” to turn disadvantage to advantage.…
New City College has launched a major new campaign calling on the government to take urgent action to protect adult education. The campaign – ‘Stop…
New analysis from the voice of the automotive sector shows training savings for SMEs are wiped out by the rise in the minimum wage and…
A specialist health and safety training provider has invested £1.25m into a new ‘centre of excellence’ in Oldbury. PLT Training, which was formed by Nicc…
Leeds College of Building (LCB) is celebrating after taking home two awards at the ‘Building the Future’ Construction Awards in Birmingham. The college won both…
Artificial intelligence is now shaping almost every conversation about the future of education and work. Yet, despite the sector’s agility and deep connections with employers and communities, Further…
SCL integrates Kitman Labs’ elite performance technology into its apprenticeships, empowering thousands of UK learners to train on the same system used by the world’s…
The 5% Club has announced the appointment of three distinguished new Fellows during its Awards Celebratory event at Mansion House, 3 December 2025. The 5%…
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