"Every single one of the government’s big ambitions – from building 1.5 million new homes to achieving net zero – has one thing in common: a skills shortage in this country." 

In this episode, Andrew Pakes MP explores the critical role of skills in driving national priorities – from building 1.5 million new homes and achieving net zero, to rebooting manufacturing and retrofitting the economy. He explains how devolution and metro mayors can match local talent to local economic needs, turbocharging growth and providing meaningful opportunities for young people.

Join Patrick Craven, Director of Policy and Strategic Partnerships at City & Guilds, for an insightful conversation with Andrew Pakes, MP for Peterborough and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Apprenticeships, recorded live at the Labour Party Conference 2025. 

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How local leadership and industrial strategy can close skills gaps and attract investment.
• The evolution from blue-collar to green-collar roles, preparing the workforce for future technologies in construction, engineering, and green energy.
• Innovative approaches to apprenticeships, including initiatives supporting young people, returners, and those in prison, offering pathways to employment and social mobility.
• The importance of tailoring skills investment to local economies to deliver real impact and opportunity.
• How aligning national ambitions with local delivery can create a virtuous cycle of growth, opportunity, and prosperity.

Whether you’re an employer, provider, policymaker, or simply passionate about the future of skills and work, this episode offers a compelling look at how apprenticeships, industrial strategy, and devolution can shape a stronger, more inclusive economy.

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Skills England
• HMP Highpoint
• All-Party Parliamentary Group on Apprenticeships

For more episodes from the series click here.

Want some free merchandise? Simply write a review on your favourite podcast platform (such as Spotify or Apple Podcasts). Once you're done, confirm your details directly from your listening device and click 'Send us a text' above the episode summary to enter the prize draw.

Please note: This offer is available to UK residents only.

“The NEET number should be a real national concern — nearly a million — and I think it’s actually higher, because it’s not capturing young people in zero-hour or gig work.”  — Anthony Impey, MBE

Set against the backdrop of the 2025 Autumn Budget, City & Guilds CEO Kirstie Donnelly MBE sat down with Anthony Impey MBE, Chief Executive of Be the Business—the organisation championing productivity across UK businesses. Anthony also chairs the City & Guilds Industry Skills Board. 

In this special bonus episode, Kirstie and Anthony unpack what the Chancellor’s announcements really mean for the skills system, employers, and the workforce of the future — with reflections recorded just hours after the Budget was delivered.

And yes… discover what being a lettuce picker and a young bus conductor have to do with this UK Budget episode. (You’ll be surprised — but it makes perfect sense.)

Be among the first to watch as they reflect on the key talking points from the Budget, including:

• What the announcements mean for skills policy and workforce development across the UK.
•  Key implications for employers, training providers, and individuals navigating the skills landscape
• The top omissions from the Budget and their potential impact on the sector.
• How policymakers, business leaders, and the sector can work together to drive productivity and foster lifelong learning.

For more podcasts, click here

How to equip people with the right skills to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. 

Be among the first to listen to this special edition of In Conversation with..., recorded live at the Skills Hub during Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, City & Guilds CEO Kirstie Donnelly, MBE is joined by Seema Malhotra MP, the newly appointed Minister of State for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, in what is her very first interview since taking on the role.

Seema reflects on how skills remain central to Labour’s mission across government, even within her new international brief, and explains why building a lifelong learning culture is critical to tackling inequalities and driving economic growth. From the forthcoming Post-16 Strategy and reforms to apprenticeships, to the role of Skills England and the importance of employer engagement, Seema shares candid insights into how government intends to move from policy commitments to real delivery.

Listeners will gain a clear understanding of:

• How Labour plans to build the foundations for lifelong learning and address persistent skills gaps.
• Why the integration of skills policy across departments is vital to economic success and social mobility.
• What employers, training providers and individuals can expect from upcoming reforms.
• How skills development is shaping not only the UK workforce but also international trade and partnerships.

This conversation offers practical takeaways for policymakers, educators, employers, and anyone committed to ensuring skills truly change lives.

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Skills England

For more episodes from the series click here

Collaboration: How the UK can bridge the Construction Skills Gap

As one of the UK’s biggest economic drivers, the UK construction industry contributes over 6% of the UK’s GVA. Yet despite this being a key UK sector, the construction industry has been identified as one with the most acute skills gaps in the UK, with deficits in traditional trades, green skills and digital skills. 

To explore how this valuable sector can develop the skills required to meet current and future challenges, host Bryony Kingsland is joined by industry experts Steve Plumstead, Director for Curriculum for Construction, Land-Based, and Engineering at Kirklees College, and Paul Skitt, Education and Skills Director at Flannery Plant, who share insights on how new modes of collaboration between employers and educational institutions are transforming the UK's construction landscape, including:

• The origins of collaboration between Kirklees College and the UK’s leading plant hire provider 
• How green skills and digital competencies can shape the future of the construction industry 
• The role of employers in local skills improvement plans (LSIPs). 
• How to meet demand for technical skills to meet current and future projects
• How Kirklees College is promoting career pathways in construction

For more episodes from the Navigating the UK skills Challenges series click here.

Want some free merchandise? Courtesy of the series, simply write a review on your favourite podcast platform. (such as Spotify or Apple Podcasts) Once done, confirm your details directly from your listening device, click 'Send us a text' above the episode summary to enter the prize draw. Please note: This offer applies to UK residents only

How can we better equip young people with essential, future-ready skills?

Why are nearly a million young people in the UK not in employment, education, or training, and what role do "durable skills" play in this persistent problem?

Join us as we welcome expert guests Andrea Barry from Youth Futures Foundation and Ema Marinho, Early Careers Lead at William Hare, for a candid discussion. Discover:

• Why there's a perceived "disconnect" between education and employers, even when young people have good grades.
• The critical role of mentorship and post-recruitment support in enabling young people to thrive in the workplace.
• How systemic issues, including financial barriers and varied awareness, particularly impact young people from ethnic minority backgrounds seeking apprenticeships.
• Bold ideas for encouraging more employers, especially SMEs, to engage with and support young apprentices.

This mini-series finale, hosted by co-hosts Bryony Kingsland, (City & Guilds), and Gavin O'Meara (FE News), dives into a challenge affecting every sector and every age group in the workforce: Durable Skills.

This episode offers vital insights for anyone involved in skills development, education, or employment. Tune in to explore the systemic challenges — and discover actionable solutions for building a future-ready workforce where no one falls through the gaps.

Listen now and gain a deeper understanding of how we can collectively empower the next generation! 

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

Making Skills Work: The Path to Solving the Productivity Crisis - report

📢 Listen now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of skills.

Listen today, or watch on YouTube

Tackle the industry's skills shortages and stay ahead of the curve by listening to this critical episode of Future skills!

Whether you're a professional working in the construction and infrastructure industry or an SME looking to access training support, or a large employer needing to collaborate more effectively with providers, this episode is packed with fresh thinking on how to  better tackle workforce shortages and future-proof businesses. The panel also look ahead to the impact of AI—reminding us why traditional skills, backed by digital adaptability, remain essential in the face of rapid change. 

Discover how to:

• Attract diverse talent and expand your workforce beyond traditional recruitment channels
• Implement flexible apprenticeship programmes that meet industry needs and retain top talent
• Leverage digital transformation to drive innovation and efficiency in your organisation

In this thought-provoking episode of Future skills, hosts Bryony Kingsland and Gavin O’Meara are joined by industry leaders to unpack the pressing issues shaping construction and infrastructure today. From widening access and inclusion, to navigating the realities of shorter apprenticeships and the evolving role of SMEs, this conversation offers sharp insight and real-world solutions. 

By listening to this episode, you'll gain valuable insights from industry experts so don't miss out on this essential conversation! 

Special thanks to our guests: Jon Hornagold, Apprenticeship Manager at Amey, and Jason Howe, Technical Advisor for Construction and Utilities at City & Guilds. 

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

Making Skills Work: The Path to Solving the Productivity Crisis - report

📢 Listen now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of skills.

Listen today, or watch on YouTube

As the green skills gap in the UK widens, how can organisations adapt quickly enough to meet the growing demand? In this episode of Future skills, hosts Bryony Kingsland and Gavin O'Meara delve into the realities of the green skills shortage and how collaboration between employers and education providers can bridge this gap.

With insights from experts Stephen Knight of MCS Certified and Mark Buckton of Opergy, the episode reveals how traditional trades like mechanical and electrical engineering, along with roles in fabricating, welding, and pipe fitting, are increasingly crucial for green jobs. The race to net-zero is accelerating, but are we training enough workers to meet these needs?

This episode provides practical solutions to improve collaboration between employers and education providers, addressing the funding and salary challenges in the FE sector that hinder recruitment and retention.

With discussions on AI, automation, and the evolving role of trades in the green economy, this episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in sustainability, skills development, or the future of work in the net-zero era.

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

Making Skills Work: The Path to Solving the Productivity Crisis - report

📢 Listen now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of skills.

Listen today, or watch on YouTube

 Worried about AI use in your organisation? Discover the safeguarding steps every FE provider can implement today.

As AI transforms the workplace, 74% of UK workers express concerns about using AI at work, while 18% of adults lack essential digital skills. In this episode of Future skills, hosts Bryony Kingsland and Gavin O'Meara explore the realities of AI adoption in further education with experts Rebecca Bradley, and Richard Foster-Fletcher.

From AI governance to continually upskilling and reskilling, our experts tackle the urgent need to empower the FE workforce in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Discover practical strategies for college leaders, the importance of teaching critical thinking skills to recognise AI limitations, and the delicate balance between embracing innovation and protecting data security.

Tune in as our experts share tactical approaches that every FE organisation can implement starting today.

📢 Listen now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of skills.

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

Staffing industry Analysis

Digital Inclusion Action Plan: First Steps

Making Skills Work: The Path to Solving the Productivity Crisis - report

Listen today, or watch on YouTube

Dirty Hands or Digital Minds? Redefining Engineering for the AI Era

The UK’s engineering sector is at a crossroads—facing a critical skills shortage, rapid technological advancements, and an aging workforce. In this Future Skills mini-series, we dive into the urgent need for a more agile qualification system, stronger employer engagement, and improved careers guidance to bridge the gap between education and industry.

Our expert guests, Rhys Morgan (Royal Academy of Engineering) and Becky Ridler (Not Just Girls), join hosts Bryony Kingsland (City & Guilds) & Gavin O’Meara (FE News) to explore:

 🔹 Why engineering education remains fragmented—and how we can fix it
 🔹 The importance of modular, responsive qualifications that keep pace with industry needs
 🔹 The diversity challenge in STEM—women make up just 16% of the workforce, and representation matters
 🔹 How post-pandemic skills deficits, particularly in communication and workplace readiness, are affecting young engineers
 🔹 What employers and educators must do now to prepare for the future of engineering

Whether you're an employer, educator, policymaker, or future engineer, this episode unpacks practical solutions to one of the UK’s most pressing workforce challenges.

📢 Listen now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of skills.

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Skills England
• Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education
• Lifelong Learning Entitlement overview
• Making Skills Work: The Path to Solving the Productivity Crisis - report

Listen today, or watch on YouTube.

This is the time for apprenticeships to fly." Andrew Pakes MP shares his vision for rebuilding Britain's skills system. 

In this conversation, Andrew Pakes, MP for Peterborough and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Apprenticeships, discusses the critical role of apprenticeships in the UK, with host Kirstie Donnelly MBE. He emphasizes the need for a robust apprenticeship system that aligns with the industrial strategy and addresses the skills gap in the workforce. Andrew shares his personal journey and the importance of social justice in shaping his views on education and employment. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by small businesses in engaging with the apprenticeship system and the need for cultural change to elevate the status of apprenticeships in society.

To hear Andrew's thoughts on the role of government in skills development, how to address dropout rates in apprenticeships, and innovative ways the farming industry could inspire more SMEs to engage with apprenticeships, listen now. 

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Skills England
• HMP Highpoint
• All-Party Parliamentary Group on Apprenticeships

For more episodes from the series click here.

Want some free merchandise? Simply write a review on your favourite podcast platform (such as Spotify or Apple Podcasts). Once you're done, confirm your details directly from your listening device and click 'Send us a text' above the episode summary to enter the prize draw.

Please note: This offer is available to UK residents only.

Have we fully unlocked the potential of apprenticeships? 

Apprenticeships are often hailed as a game-changer for skills development, but are we truly making the most of them? From funding shortfalls to accessibility barriers, are we limiting their impact? 

In this special National Apprenticeship Week episode of Navigating the UK Skills Challenges, host Bryony Kingsland sits down with Jagdeep Soor (The Pathway Group) and Donna Kenny (The West of England Institute of Technology) to uncover hidden strategies to make apprenticeships work as intended. 

Key discussion points:

•  Funding fixes – How do we ensure investment reaches those who need it most?
• Breaking barriers – What practical steps can widen participation and boost social mobility?
• Lifelong learning – How do we make upskilling and reskilling second nature?

Whether you’re an employer, policymaker, educator, careers advisor, or apprentice, this episode is packed with insights to help unlock the full potential of apprenticeships.

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• The Festival of Apprenticeships
• Apprenticeship Branding Conference
• Skills England
• Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education
• The Further Education Call for Evidence

Listen today, or watch on YouTube.

For more episodes from City & Guilds' Navigating the UK skills Challenges series click here.

Want some free merchandise? Courtesy of the series, simply write a review on your favourite podcast platform. (such as Spotify or Apple Podcasts) Once done, confirm your details directly from your listening device, click 'Send us a text' above the episode summary to enter the prize draw. Please note: This offer applies to UK residents only

In partnership with the Lifelong Education Institute, City & Guilds recently published its Productivity report, ‘Making Skills Work’, which included research revealing that a significant number of working-age adults and senior business leads identified skills gaps which hampered productivity gains, and did not feel they had the skills required to meet future industrial challenges. 

To explore the role of lifelong learning in helping people remain employable and productive at all stages of life, host Bryony Kingsland interviews Kirstie Donnelly MBE, CEO at City & Guilds, to discuss a range of themes around this topic, in an episode including: 

• Potential changes to the Lifelong Learning Entitlement 
• How employers can work with training providers to boost skills development 
• How regional differences in access to skills can be addressed 
• The challenges and opportunities represented by developments in the job market, including AI and Green Skills 
• Expectations for the government’s new Industrial Strategy and the role of Skills England

 With the rise in requests for information on questions such as ‘Why is lifelong learning important?’, ‘What does lifelong learning mean?’, ‘How can strategies for skills development and lifelong learning enable career progression?’, and ‘How will lifelong learning benefit you?’, this episode provides key takeaways for listeners. 

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Skills England
• Lifelong Learning Entitlement overview

Listen today, or watch on YouTube.

For more episodes from the Navigating the UK skills Challenges series click here.

Want some free merchandise? Courtesy of the series, simply write a review on your favourite podcast platform. (such as Spotify or Apple Podcasts) Once done, confirm your details directly from your listening device, click 'Send us a text' above the episode summary to enter the prize draw. Please note: This offer applies to UK residents only

"Apprenticeships are a great way to establish a career."

In this episode, Patrick Craven, Director of Policy, Strategic Partnerships, and Stakeholder Engagement, at City & Guilds speaks with Peter Bedford, the newly elected Conservative MP for Mid Leicestershire about the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, particularly through apprenticeships and professional and technical training.

They discuss the need for a cultural shift in how society views education and skills training, emphasising that apprenticeships can be as valid as traditional university routes. The conversation also touches on the role of government in supporting skills development and the importance of adapting to technological changes and green skills for future economic resilience.

Discover how apprenticeships can provide practical, hands-on learning experiences that rival traditional university degrees. Peter shares his personal journey as the first in his family to attend university, emphasising the need for diverse career pathways that are accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. We also explore the collaborative efforts of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for apprenticeships in driving policy changes and raising awareness about the critical roles these programs play in the economy.

Reflecting on Peter's vision for empowering future generations, we discuss how modernising educational systems to keep pace with technological advancements is imperative for the UK's global competitiveness.

Join us for an inspiring conversation that champions apprenticeships as a vital pathway for shaping a hopeful future.

You can access this and other City & Guilds podcasts here.

Read our full Impact Report discussed during the episode here. 

This episode explores the importance of supporting menopause in the workplace, urging employers to create supportive policies, educate staff, and normalise discussions. It addresses common misconceptions, the impact on family dynamics, and practical steps organisations can take to foster inclusivity. The role of leadership and the need for women to educate themselves about their health are also highlighted.
 
 Episode takeaways include:

·       Menopause affects a significant portion of the workforce.

·       Supportive policies can help retain talent and improve wellbeing.

·       There are over 40 symptoms associated with menopause.

·       Anxiety can be a debilitating symptom during menopause.

·       Open conversations about menopause should be normalised in workplaces.

·       Employers should provide training for managers on menopause.

·       Education about menopause is crucial for both employees and employers.

Series host Bryony Kingsland explores the transformative power of understanding and supporting menopause in the workplace with insights from Charmain Bucho, Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at City & Guilds, and popular speaker Natalie Greenslade, a registered nutritionist and founder of GingerGreen Nutrition, a dedicated nutritional therapist specialising in women's health.

With the rise in requests for information on questions such as ‘Why does menopause happen?’, ‘When does menopause start?’, ‘Can menopause cause anxiety?’, ‘What menopause symptoms should I look out for?’, and ‘Are menopause supplements worth it?’, this episode provides key takeaways for listeners.

Discover why nearly 18% of the workforce needs attention and how a lack of menopause awareness can affect careers and company efficiency. Charmain and Natalie reveal the financial and talent losses when menopausal employees consider quitting due to unaddressed symptoms. Learn how organisations can break down barriers, offer support, and create an inclusive, thriving workplace through open conversations, manager training, and empathetic leadership. This episode also covers practical solutions, including nutrition workshops, lifestyle advice, and support beyond HRT, empowering women and their partners during this life stage.

GingerGreen Nutrition
NICE Guidance (This guideline covers the diagnosis and management of menopause)
The Daisy Network
City & Guilds M-powered Community Support Group

For more episodes from the Navigating the UK skills Challenges series click here

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"A Kind of Hope" by Scott Buckley is used under the Creative Commons (BY 3.0) license.
You can find more details about the license here: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Music source: Scott Buckley
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‘Green skills’ is a collective term for the specific knowledge, abilities and values needed to promote the reduction of negative environmental impact in the workplace.

But despite Local Skills Improvement Plans prioritising green skills, and the topic moving steadily up the agenda at many organisations, there is limited clarity about what this could mean in terms of growth, career pathways and skills . There are also challenges linked to how these should be delivered, both at employer and community level.

To explore this topic, hosts Bryony Kingsland and Kerry Dunkley are joined by Jane Vivian, Programme Manager, West of England Combined Authority. Using examples of tackling skills shortages in her region, Jane shares her insights on the challenges and opportunities of green skills for employers, learners and training providers, including:

• How traditional job roles are incorporating Green elements
• Green career pathways for younger learners / jobseekers
• How training providers and colleges can help younger people access green careers
• Current challenges in delivery of green skills and knowledge
• How businesses can take an inclusive approach to accessing green skills

 With the rise in requests for information on questions such as ‘Why are green skills important?’, ‘What are green skills?’, ‘Is green skills training necessary?’, and ‘How can green skills be acquired?’, this episode provides key takeaways for viewers. 

For more episodes from the Navigating the UK skills Challenges series click here.

Employability skills – including effective communication and other workplace behaviours, are now essential for those aiming to find employment and progress their careers. The need for employability skills is consistently highlighted by employers, but young people entering the world of work often lack professional skills, and have limited knowledge of their importance at work.  

In the second of two podcasts exploring this topic, Bryony Kingsland and Eric Oliver are joined by Kira and Rob, members of the City & Guilds Young Learner Advisory Team, who share their insights on the employability challenges faced by young people in the modern workplace. The discussion deepens into crucial aspects of employability, work-life balance, and employer-employee trust. Here's a breakdown of the topics covered:

• Transactional Nature of Employment: workplaces, where employees expect tangible returns for their efforts.
• Cultural Shift in Employment: The conversation explores whether the transactional nature of employment is due to cultural shifts or the current job market dynamics.
• Communication Skills: The importance of effective communication skills in navigating workplace dynamics, including negotiating salaries and discussing career progression.
• Access to Opportunities: The challenges faced by working-class individuals in accessing internships and entry-level positions, emphasising the need for equal opportunities.

The episode provides insights from on the importance of clear expectations, open-mindedness, and ongoing learning in the workplace.

Featured Guests:

• Hilary Gwilliam, Senior Category Manager at City & Guilds
• Kira Foster, Young Learner Advisory Team member at City & Guilds
• Rob Cotter, Young Learner Advisory Team member at City & Guilds

For more episodes from the Navigating the UK skills Challenges series click here.

Employability skills – including effective communication and other workplace behaviours, are now essential for those aiming to find employment and progress their careers. The need for employability skills is consistently highlighted by employers, but young people entering the world of work often lack professional skills, and have limited knowledge of their importance at work.  

In the first of two podcasts exploring this topic, Bryony Kingsland and Eric Oliver are joined by Kira and Rob, members of the City & Guilds Young Learner Advisory Team, who share their insights on the employability challenges faced by young people in the modern workplace, including: 

• Definitions of employability, and employability challenges faced by young people 

• How common educational pathways can fall short in terms of preparing young people for work

• The role of effective communications in employability 

• Modern expectations among employers – versus those of young employees

• The challenges and benefits presented by an age-diverse workforce

Upcoming Episode:
Part two of this episode, will focus on tips for hiring new individuals, the significance of work experience, and the obstacles to social mobility in accessing internships.

For more episodes from the Navigating the UK skills Challenges series click here.

Welcome to the City & Guilds Insight Podcast series, where we embark on a journey to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing the UK today: bridging the gap in our nation's skill shortages.

At City & Guilds, our mission is centred on empowering individuals, organisations, and economies through skills development. In this 2024 Insight podcast series, we delve into the heart of the post-16 technical skills sector with a bold question: Is it truly possible to overcome the UK's skill shortages?

As we stand at a pivotal moment in history, our workforce faces unprecedented challenges and remarkable opportunities. From technological disruptions, to the demands of a global economy, the path ahead is both daunting and exhilarating.

But within every challenge lies the potential for innovation, resilience, and growth. Join us as we shine a light on the intricate dynamics of the UK workforce, showcasing the extraordinary individuals and organisations leading the charge for change.

Through insightful interviews and discussions with experts and sector leaders, we aim to dissect the issues highlighted in the Department of Education's 38 regional Local Skills Improvement Plans released in 2023.

Are you curious about the best practices and innovations already shaping the landscape? 

Do you want to understand how skill needs will evolve in the coming years and the implications for your career, business, or life plans? 

Whether you're an employer, a training provider, or an individual seeking guidance, this podcast promises insights and information to inform your decisions.

Come join us as we uncover the challenges and innovations shaping the future of technical skills development.  Your voice matters in this conversation, so leave reviews and comments, you may find your question popping up in a future podcast. 

In this podcast we explore alongside Craig Smith, Managing Director at Gen2, how employers and training providers can embrace innovation and nurture talent to ensure this sector revolutionises our economy. By fostering collaboration and facilitating knowledge exchange among industries and training institutions, we hope to pave the way for an engineering workforce equipped to flourish in the future.

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

STEM Learning: STEM Ambassadors
Engineering UK: Tomorrow's Engineering Code

Stay tuned for more fascinating episodes hosted by Bryony Kingsland, Funding & Policy Insight Lead, and Eric Oliver, Funding & Policy Advisor, both at City & Guilds.

Welcome to City & Guilds’ special Labour party conference 2023 podcast, 'In conversation with...' hosted by Kirstie Donnelly MBE, CEO of City & Guilds.

Recorded on location on board the Walton Youth Community Project bus, Kirstie is joined by the former Secretary of State for Education and Employment, Lord Blunkett as she dives into some of the issues raised during #Lab23 and events elsewhere.

Listen as one of the UK's most renowned champions of the importance of skills and lifelong learning, shares the sofa and microphone, in this episode special.

Special thanks to Citadel Policy and Communications  and the Walton Youth and Community Project, for their assistance with the recording of this episode in their studio.

For more episodes from City & Guilds, visit the City Voices podcast channel page.

Welcome to City & Guilds’ Youth Misspent podcast series, a monthly podcast in which we dive into some of the issues raised in our research report of the same name.

The research found that the odds are being stacked against young people’s futures and career aspirations – particularly the most disadvantaged. So in this series, we want to showcase the work that various industries are doing to integrate young people into their workforces and explore how we might resolve the multiple barriers young people face when trying to enter the workforce.

Hosted by Craig Smith, Managing Director of City & Guilds Gen2,  this episode takes a closer look at  the engineering sector, which is set to grow significantly over the coming years. However, it is also a sector that faces an ongoing skills shortage due in part to an aging workforce, with a 2020 report finding that almost 20% of engineers in the UK are due to reach retirement age by 2026.

Despite this, our Youth Misspent research found that almost half (42%) of young people felt that they lacked the skills to pursue a career in engineering, and a third felt that they didn’t know enough about the roles available in the sector.  

In this episode Craig is joined by: 

• Warren Page, Apprentice Manager at Xtrac Ltd 
• Remis, a young engineering learner at an FE College  
• Beth Elgood, Director of Communications, at EngineeringUK 

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Youth Misspent
• Levying Up: Delivering sustainable skills
• The Big Bang fair
• EngineeringUK reports
• City & Guilds social media: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

Welcome to City & Guilds’ Youth Misspent podcast series,  a monthly podcast in which we dive into some of the issues raised in our research report of the same name

The research found that the odds are being stacked against young people’s futures and career aspirations – particularly the most disadvantaged. So in this series, we want to showcase the work that various industries are doing to integrate young people into their workforces and explore how we might resolve the multiple barriers young people face when trying to enter the workforce.

Hosted by Andy Moss, Managing Director of City & Guilds. this episode takes a closer look at  the energy sector,  which is experiencing rapid, large-scale change. With the government having committed to ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions in the energy sector by 2035 this will mean a major shift away from the use of fossil fuels.  This change will undoubtedly bring new challenges for the energy sector, but it will also create an abundance of opportunities for people old and young to upskill and reskill in low carbon skills. 

In this episode David is joined by: 

• Grace McCrickard, Award winning learner and Senior Electrical Technician at JF Nuclear
• Mark Wilkins, Training Director at Vaillant Group
• David Nash, Director of Strategy and Policy at ECITB – the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Youth Misspent
• Levying Up: Delivering sustainable skills
• ECITB scholarships
• City & Guilds social media: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

Welcome to City & Guilds’ Youth Misspent podcast series,  a monthly podcast in which we dive into some of the issues raised in our research report of the same name

The research found that the odds are being stacked against young people’s futures and career aspirations – particularly the most disadvantaged. So in this series, we want to showcase the work that various industries are doing to integrate young people into their workforces and explore how we might resolve the multiple barriers young people face when trying to enter the workforce.

Hosted by David Phillips, Managing Director of City & Guilds. this episode takes a closer look at  the manufacturing sector, the opportunities the industry can offer young people and employers, and some of the challenges many currently face such as, acute skills shortages. 

In this episode David is joined by: 

• David Land, Chair of the County Durham, Engineering & Manufacturing Network
• Jemima Pennock, Manufacturing Excellence at Nestlé UK & Ireland and former apprentice 
• Sharon Blyfield OBE, Head of Early Careers & Apprenticeships at  Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
• Tom Mongan - President of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chambers of Commerce

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Youth Misspent
• Levying Up: Delivering sustainable skills
• Careermap
• City & Guilds social media: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

To hear more insights on how we can empower young people to enter the workforce and play an essential part in the UK's recovery story, you can subscribe to the podcast

The latest episode in our Youth Misspent series continues on our journey to explore some of the issues highlighted in our research report, which uncovered the harsh realities for the UK's young people in today's job market. 

In honour of International Women's Day, this episode focuses on the challenges and opportunities for young women entering the workforce. Our host City & Guilds, Corporate Affairs and Foundation Director, Faiza Khan MBE, is joined by a brilliant panel as they discuss the ambitions and expectations of young women and how employers, government and educators can support them in realising these ambitions. 

In this episode, Faiza Khan is joined by:  

• Claire Reindorp, Chief Executive, Young Women's Trust
• Evelyn Bate, Head of Academy, Nestlé UK&I 
• Kathleen Sullivan, Engineering learner at Gen2 

For further information about the material quoted in this episode, visit:  

• Youth Misspent
• Levying Up: Delivering sustainable skills
• Work It Out Services
• #CostingOurFutures
• Just Getting By: Young Women's Trust Annual Survey
• Schools for All 
• City & Guilds social media: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

This latest episode takes a closer look at the construction sector, delving into its challenges, such as its continued struggle with acute skills shortages, an aging workforce and a need for more diversity as well as looking at the solutions and what kind of career opportunities the sector can offer young people in the UK.  

 In this episode, Andy is joined by: 

• Andy Rayner, Director of Apprenticeship and Early Careers, Travis Perkins
• Kate Buxton, Mentor at Volunteer It Yourself
• Stephen Cole, Senior Customer Engagement Manager at CITB 
• Kaitlin and Demi, two young women who have been supported in the early stages of their careers through a construction programme with Employability Solutions and Volunteer It Yourself

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:  

• Youth Misspent
• Levying Up: Delivering sustainable skills
• Go Construct 
• Apprenticeship Levy Pledge
• Timewise Construction Pioneers Programme
• Construction Leadership Council
• City & Guilds social media: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

Welcome to City & Guilds’ Youth Misspent podcast series, hosted by David Phillips, Managing Director of City & Guilds. A monthly podcast in which we dive into some of the issues raised in our research report of the same name.

The research found that the odds are being stacked against young people’s futures and career aspirations – particularly the most disadvantaged. So in this series, we want to showcase the work that various industries are doing to integrate young people into their workforces and explore how we might resolve the multiple barriers young people face when trying to enter the workforce. 

To coincide with National Apprenticeship Week, this episode takes a closer look at apprenticeships, the opportunities they can offer young people and employers, and some of the challenges many currently face in using them. 

In this episode David is joined by: 

• Mark Cameron, CEO at 5% Club
• Joanne Gogerly, Head of Siemens Professional Education UK and North-West Europe 
• Bradley Fisher, Trainee Solicitor Apprentice, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP  

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Youth Misspent
• Levying Up: Delivering sustainable skills
• GetMyFirstJob 
• Apprenticeships at Siemens
• City & Guilds social media: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

To hear more insights on how we can empower young people to enter the workforce and play an essential part in the UK's recovery story, you can subscribe to the podcast.

Welcome to City & Guilds’ Great Jobs podcast series, hosted by Craig Smith, Managing Director of City & Guilds Gen2. A monthly podcast in which we dive into some of the issues raised in our research report of the same name, produced in collaboration with economic modellers Lightcast. 

The research found that despite key workers seeing the nation through the pandemic, the UK’s most vital industries are being threatened by growing skills shortages, as poor reputations and concerns about low pay turn off potential new recruits. 

This episode looks at the Energy sector, a sector that has seen a great deal of public attention as it has risen to the top of the political agenda, however, it still faces a significant skills shortage. 

In this episode, Craig is in conversation with:

• Melanie Onn – Former Shadow Leader of the House of Commons and the Deputy Chief Executive of RenewableUK. 

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit: 

• Great Jobs Report
• Mission Renewable - Armed forces engagement for the UK renewable energy sector
• Energy Careers 2050 -  Providing resources to support training and competence for the Wind Energy Sector.
• Green Careers Week - an exciting event that raises aspiration, supports diversity, challenges stereotypes, and promotes real opportunities for young people to have a career that will genuinely make a difference.  

To hear more insights on the essential jobs that keep the UK moving, healthy and working, you can subscribe to the podcast.

Listeners may also be interested in a podcast series by the City & Guilds Foundation.

Welcome to City & Guilds’ Great Jobs podcast series, hosted by Kirstie Donnelly MBE, CEO of City & Guilds. A monthly podcast in which she dives into some of the issues raised in our research report of the same name, produced in collaboration with economic modellers
Lightcast.

The research found that despite key workers seeing the nation through the pandemic, the UK’s most vital industries are being threatened by growing skills shortages, as poor reputations and concerns about low pay turn off potential new recruits.

This episode looks at social care, a sector that has seen a great deal of positive public attention as people became more aware of its vital and challenging work, however, it still faces a significant skills shortage.

In this episode Kirstie is joined by: 

• Nigel Taylor – Group Head of Learning and Development at CareTech
• Sarah Gribbin - Learning and Development Manager at Home Instead
• Lindsey Appleby-Flynn – Head of Development and Design at Cera Care

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Great Jobs Report
• The state of the adult social care sector and workforce report
• ADASS Waiting for care report 
• City & Guilds social media: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube
• If you are interested in joining the Employer Reference Group mentioned in this episode  contact Geraldine Donworth or email her directly via: geraldine.donworth@cityandguilds.com

To hear more insights on the essential jobs that keep the UK moving, healthy and working, you can subscribe to the podcast.

Listeners may also be interested in a podcast series by the City & Guilds Foundation.

Welcome to City & Guilds’ Great Jobs podcast series, hosted by Kirstie Donnelly MBE, CEO of City & Guilds. A monthly podcast in which she dives into some of the issues raised in our research report of the same name, produced in collaboration with economic modellers
Emsi Burning Glass.

The research found that despite key workers seeing the nation through the pandemic, the UK’s most vital industries are being threatened by growing skills shortages, as poor reputations and concerns about low pay turn off potential new recruits.

This episode looks at Green Skills and the role they can play not only in creating a sustainable future, but also powering the ambitious Levelling Up agenda set out by the government.

In this episode Kirstie is joined by: 

• Lizzie Lyons – Head of Skills - Business West
• Venetia Knight - Head of Employment and Enterprise - Groundwork
• Rebecca Durber – AELP

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Great Jobs Report
• The Workforce for the Future programme
• Unlock a better way ahead - Skills for life
• AELP Webinar: Maximising opportunities to develop your learners' Green Skills
• AELP Green Skills Summit: Sustainability is now the 'fourth functional skill'
• City & Guilds Foundation: Support for a Green start
• City & Guilds social media: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

To hear more insights on the essential jobs that keep the UK moving, healthy and working, you can subscribe to the podcast.

Listeners may also be interested in a podcast series by the City & Guilds Foundation.

Welcome to City & Guilds’ Great Jobs podcast series, hosted by Kirstie Donnelly MBE, CEO of City & Guilds. A monthly podcast in which she dives into some of the issues raised in our research report of the same name, produced in collaboration with economic modellers
Emsi Burning Glass.

The research found that despite key workers seeing the nation through the pandemic, the UK’s most vital industries are being threatened by growing skills shortages, as poor reputations and concerns about low pay turn off potential new recruits.

This episode explores the skills gaps and labour market shortages in the rail sector and what action needs to be taken to address these.

In this episode Kirstie is joined by: 

• Lorna Gibson, Training Director at QTS Training Ltd and Head of Women in Rail - Scotland
• Neil Robertson, CEO at National Skills Academy for Rail  
•  Alex Pond, Managing Director at Intertrain  

For further information about the material quoted in this episode visit:

• Routes Into Rail
• Great Jobs Report
• City & Guilds social media: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

To hear more insights on the essential jobs that keep the UK moving, healthy and working, you can subscribe to the podcast.

Listeners may also be interested in a podcast series by the City & Guilds Foundation.