A forward-thinking initiative from Essex County Council is helping plug the gap of highly-skilled workers in the science, technology and engineering sectors in Britain today.
Damning findings from a recent Confederation of British Industry report have revealed more than half of employers fear they will not be able to recruit enough high-skilled workers.
In an attempt to address this, four years ago (2011), Essex County Council launched the Education and Industry STEM programme to directly target shortages in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Cllr Ray Gooding, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: “Our programme, which is being rolled out to 30 secondary schools across Greater Essex, has sparked much enthusiasm amongst young people. We now have a pipeline of young students who are aspiring to careers in science, technology, engineering and maths.”
Now Essex is reaping its rewards and businesses are being challenged to pledge 500 unique experiences of work by November 1st this year for these young people
Suzanne Jude, chair of Essex Employment and Skills Board, said: "We urgently need more Companies to play their role in developing the workforce of the future and to offer these motivated young people an experience of work, even if it is simply inviting a student to visit your business for an hour."
To play your part in the challenge, please contact Amy Christie on 0333 0136230 or email