Employer Support Programme Launched

A £6.9 million employer support programme for further education colleges has been launched.

Employment and Learning Minister, Dr. Stephen Farry, launched the programme at a celebration event for South West College which has won three UK Beacon Awards, including the coveted President’s Award for its work with employers and schools in the promotion of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and a gold ‘International Green Award’ for its work in sustainable technologies.

Speaking at the event in South West College’s STEM centre, Dr Farry said: "Today, I can confirm that I have approved funding of £6.9million for a further four years to continue the Employer Support Programme. As a result of this funding, the further education sector will be able to continue to provide a wide range of support for local employers, through sector-wide initiatives and projects, to encourage businesses to engage with, and embrace innovation and sustainability. Further education colleges will continue to play a pivotal role in supporting employers as key drivers of local and regional economic and workforce development."

The additional funding of over £6.9million is being made available to the further education sector, over the next four years, through the mainstream Employer Support Programme, commencing in this financial year (2011/12).

This funding stream will ensure the further education sector has the capacity and expertise to deliver the skilled workforce required for the future in collaboration with the business sector. The fund will also increase the role the further education sector has in supporting economic development and developing entrepreneurship.

(LB)