Employers, careers experts and educators came together at 台湾裸聊直播 (DMU) Leicester to address the skills gap as part of National Apprenticeship Week 2025.
The Skills for Life event held at DMU’s Venue aimed to bring people together for conversations around how apprenticeships and collaboration can help solve workforce challenges and support talent development.
A panel made up of Jill Cowley, Pro Vice Chancellor Skills and Training at DMU; Kelly Blank, talent development manager at DMU; Iain McKenzie, COO at Mattioli Woodsm Hina Chauhan, head of HR at Mattioli Woods and Gus Patel, senior economic regeneration officer at Leicester City Council, answered questions on myths around apprenticeships, common experiences, best practice and opportunities offered by the creation of Skills England to support shorter courses and a broader range of training.
Jill Cowley said: “It has been really good to get a cross-section of businesses and educators in the same room. The skills gap is widening, and solving it will take a collaborative effort. Events like this are central to finding solutions—helping us explore how we can attract, retain, and grow our own talent.”
The event featured a panel discussion and employer-led conversations, offering fresh insights and practical solutions for bridging the skills gap. Attendees explored how apprenticeships can benefit not just school leavers but people of all ages, helping businesses develop and retain a highly skilled workforce.
DMU also shared details of its Levy Transfer Scheme. DMU has donated a portion of its levy to support local employers to fully fund apprenticeship programmes, reducing financial barriers to upskilling staff and recruiting new talent.
Katie Newman, Operations Manager at Twin Training, said: “It’s been really helpful to discuss and share best practices with others. You realise we’re all facing the same challenges. Events like this are essential for widening the conversation on how we attract, grow, and retain talent. It’s going to take collaboration across sectors to solve these issues.”
Helen Russell, Director of Right Track Consultancy, said: “Part of the solution is education—especially for parents and young people. Apprenticeships aren’t just for school leavers; they can offer fantastic career opportunities for people at all stages of life.”
DMU is helping support businesses in developing talent through its Apprenticeship Levy Transfer scheme. If your company is based in Leicestershire and wants support towards taking on apprentices, then you could be eligible. Click here to find out more
Posted on Sunday 16 February 2025