Education and Skills Forum: Young People in Employment
This Education and Skills Forum will bring together employers, educators, and young people to explore one of the most important opportunities for our region: how perceptions of young people in employment can support better pathways into work, progression, and long-term success in the workforce.
The session builds on discussions that have taken place throughout the year within the Forum, where this topic has consistently been highlighted as a priority for members. It also reflects themes identified through previous Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) research, which points to the importance of strong connections between employers and young people, and the role these relationships play in enabling successful transitions into work.
The event comes at a pivotal time, following increased national focus through the recent Milburn Review and wider research into young people not in education, employment or training (NEET). This growing body of work highlights both the opportunities and challenges in supporting young people into employment, alongside the vital role employers play in shaping inclusive, supportive, and forward-looking workplaces.
At the heart of the session will be a panel of young people and emerging leaders, who will share their lived experiences of entering and progressing in the workplace. Their perspectives will provide valuable insight into what works well, where there are opportunities to strengthen support, and how employers and young people can work together to achieve positive outcomes. The session will also include a further keynote speaker (to be confirmed), offering additional context and expertise.
As well as hearing these perspectives, attendees will have the opportunity to contribute directly to the Chamber’s developing policy position. Insights gathered during the forum will inform a wider programme of work aimed at shaping a regional response to youth employment and influencing the recommendations expected from the Milburn Review later this year.
This forum is an opportunity not only to listen, but to collaborate - ensuring that the experiences of young people and the needs of employers are brought together to shape practical, impactful solutions for the future.
