Eastleigh College has moved to online learning, as such campuses are closed to the vast majority of learners. The College remains open (including over the Easter holiday period) for 16-18 learners of key workers, and those learners with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). However, for both categories, learners are asked to stay at home where it is safe to do so. Consistent with public health advice, learners and staff are asked to follow public health guidance and the steps outlined via the 'read more' button.
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.
Following guidance received today from the Department for Education and Ofqual, we can provided reassurance to students who were due to sit GCSEs at Eastleigh College this summer.
Eastleigh College is delighted to announce that following the release of national government data, it has ranked 1st in Hampshire and 10th nationally against all other 6th form and further education colleges for its student achievement rates.