Hayes backs campaign to create a million opportunities for skills

Skills Minister John Hayes has called on schools, colleges and businesses to back a new campaign to create a million opportunities for Britons to learn new skills this year.

‘Have a Go’, which is part of the official countdown to the WorldSkills London 2011 Competition, aims to enable people to gain practical experience in skills ranging from car maintenance to landscape gardening.

It also encourages businesses to introduce a new generation of young adults to the possibilities of a skills-based career.

“Practical skills are as important as academic qualifications,” said Mr Hayes.

“Britain’s success will depend on our ability to create a new generation of world class craftsmen, designers and technicians.

“‘Have a Go’ is an excellent opportunity for people from all walks of life to be inspired by the possibilities of vocational education. I hope every local community hosts an event.”

Aidan Jones, executive director of WorldSkills London 2011, said the new campaign will help create a lasting legacy for skills in Britain.

“Our goal is to inspire Britons to explore the endless possibilities that skills have to offer by giving them a first-hand opportunity to try something new,” said Mr Jones.

“We will create one million ‘Have a Go’ opportunities across the country, and are calling on educational institutions and businesses to come on board and help the public be a part of the world’s greatest skills competition and careers event later this year.”

Current planned ‘Have a Go’ events include: RHS Chelsea Flower Show and Hampton Court, the British Touring Car Championship events and UKSkills Competition finals.

Susannah Fairbairn

(Pictured: Skills Minister John Hayes)