Weekly Newsletter 17.10.2024

BIG DATA

Data engineers drive success in the Information Age

Data engineers are the backbone of data-driven decision-making, turning raw information into valuable insights.

Did you know? The UK alone has about 197,000 companies directly involved in data production and use. That's a lot of data to manage!

These tech wizards are like master chefs in the kitchen of big data:

🍝 They transform tangled data 'spaghetti' into organised insights

🏗️ They build pipelines that collect, clean, and prep data for analysis

🚀 They enable quick, informed business choices across industries

With 402.74 million terabytes of data created daily the demand for skilled data engineers continues to soar.

Read the full blog to explore how data engineers are reshaping industries from healthcare to education.

EDUCATION REFORM

Skills England to Enhance UK Education System Efficiency

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) is set to transfer its powers to the Department for Education (DfE), leading to the creation of Skills England. This new executive agency aims to integrate employer input with broader government strategies, enhancing the skills system's agility and responsiveness. The bill, introduced by Skills Minister Jacqui Smith, allows the Secretary of State to bypass employer groups for designing standards, aiming for a more streamlined process.

Skills England will operate within the DfE, differing from IfATE's non-departmental public body status. This transition may cause temporary disruptions, but the DfE promises mitigations to minimise impact. The government is committed to extensive engagement with employers to maintain their influence and ensure a coherent system for learners and providers.

BUSINESS NEWS

Hundreds of New Apprenticeships Created in Norfolk with £2m Scheme

Norfolk businesses have embraced a £2.2m Apprenticeships Norfolk levy support scheme, resulting in 220 new apprenticeship starts across over 120 businesses. This initiative allows unspent funds to be redirected from the Treasury to support local apprenticeships, benefiting both new and existing staff.

Key contributors like Aviva, the University of East Anglia, and the BBC have transferred their unspent levy, reaching a £2m milestone. The scheme has seen over 100 Level 3 apprenticeships and 40 Level 2 apprenticeships, with significant funding transfers. Additionally, 70 higher and degree apprenticeships have been created, offering a cost-effective solution for businesses with limited Learning and Development budgets.

Councillor Fabian Eagle highlights the scheme's success in supporting regional businesses and skill development, ensuring funds remain within Norfolk to foster economic growth.

EDUCATION SECTOR

DfE Utilises Surveyors and Planes for College Campus Assessments

The Department for Education (DfE) is set to deploy surveyors and planes to assess the condition of every further education college in England from March to September 2025. This initiative aims to gather data for future capital budgets, focusing on building conditions, asset management, and net zero emissions.

Surveyors will conduct block-by-block assessments, grading each element from A (good) to D (bad) and prioritising remedial actions from 1 (immediate) to 4 (more than five years). Colleges will receive high-level findings to complement their own surveys, enhancing their understanding of estate conditions.

This comprehensive data collection will support future capital funding decisions, building on the 2019 survey that contributed to a £1.5 billion capital spending commitment. The initiative reflects a proactive approach to improving educational infrastructure.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Government's Apprenticeship Funding Plan: Impact on Hospitality Sector

The University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC) warns that the government's plan to restrict levy funding for level 7 apprenticeships could widen the skills gap in hospitality. This policy may hinder economic growth and impact hospitality firms needing to develop future managers and specialists. Dr. Mandy Crawford-Lee, UVAC's chief executive, emphasises the importance of apprenticeships for social mobility and career progression.

The report by UVAC and Sheffield Hallam University highlights the critical role of higher apprenticeships in employee retention and productivity. Charlynne Pullen from Sheffield Hallam University notes the benefits of apprenticeships for adults at all career stages. While supporting young apprentices is vital, the government should not neglect the essential funding for level 7 apprenticeships, crucial for hospitality employers.

GOVERNMENT JOBS

Skills England CEO Role Announced by Department for Education

The Department for Education (DfE) has launched a search for the first CEO of Skills England, a new executive agency. The role, with a salary of £130,000, is aimed at senior leaders from government or business. The CEO will report to the DfE's Director General for Skills and is expected to lead the agency in addressing national skills needs.

Skills England will unite government, businesses, and training providers to develop a comprehensive view of skills requirements and prioritise training programmes. The agency, currently in shadow form, is set to become fully operational by April. The CEO will play a crucial role in establishing the agency's vision and fostering a collaborative culture to achieve its mission.

CONTENTLEGAL EDUCATION

Solicitor Apprenticeships Face Funding Challenges Amidst Reforms

The future of solicitor apprenticeships is under scrutiny as the government considers cutting funding for level 7 programmes. These apprenticeships, launched in 2016, aim to diversify the legal profession by providing an alternative route to qualification without student debt. Despite their promise, concerns remain about their accessibility, as they are highly competitive and often attract applicants from privileged backgrounds.

While some law firms and in-house legal teams have embraced solicitor apprenticeships, the potential funding cuts could hinder progress. Advocates argue that these programmes are crucial for breaking down traditional barriers and fostering diversity. However, the new government's focus on youth training may shift resources away from these initiatives, risking a return to elitism in the legal sector.

EDUCATION SECTOR

Struggling Colleges Show Progress Amidst Financial and Governance Challenges

The FE Commissioner has released intervention reports for Newham Sixth Form College (NewVIc), Lakes College, and Redcar and Cleveland Council. NewVIc has faced significant challenges, including poor management and financial strategy, leading to a planned merger with Newham College. Efforts are underway to stabilise leadership and improve student outcomes.

Lakes College received a £1.5 million emergency loan due to cashflow issues, despite historical financial strength. The college is reviewing governance and management to ensure future sustainability. Meanwhile, Redcar and Cleveland Council's adult education service was removed from the apprenticeships register after an inadequate Ofsted rating. Improvements in student outcomes are noted, with ongoing efforts to enhance governance and teaching quality.