Representatives from Eastleigh College and NatWest recently got together to discuss the skills shortages in the local area, and what the College can do to help with recruitment difficulties in the current market.

The meeting also involved representatives from local employers such as Dyer & Butler, Trant, and EBP South, who were able to bring to the table their thoughts from an employer’s perspective. They were able to highlight the skills most important to them, and what they felt would best prepare a student for their chosen profession.

In response, Eastleigh College are able to better understand employer’s requirements, and make sure that the training they provide is directly relevant to them. This will ensure students are well equipped for the working environment.

Mairead Taylor, NatWest director of commercial and corporate banking for Southampton, Salisbury and Andover, said: “We noticed that there was a definite pattern emerging from our customers, particularly in manufacturing and engineering, of a skills gap. This was an opportunity for us to use our relationships with local organisations, bringing them together with five of our customers to discuss ways to address this issue.”

“I’m confident that the initiatives that will result from the initial discussions will bring enormous benefit both to students and to local employers.”

Jan Edrich, Chief Executive and Principal of Eastleigh College, commented: “This is a brilliant opportunity to focus on future careers for young people in the area. These companies are seeking employees for senior and managerial roles, and studying a professional and technical qualification will best prepare students for successful careers in these areas and many more.”

This is an exciting time for Eastleigh College to work closely with employers to gain a better understanding into what they require.This enables the College to tailor its courses to the needs of industry, providing local businesses with skilled employees and preparing individuals for successful careers.