By Callum Allison
The latest report from Skills England highlights an urgent need to transform the UK’s skills landscape, aiming to unlock economic growth by equipping every individual with the tools to seize new opportunities. The Secretary of State for Education, Rt. Hon. Bridget Phillipson, underscores the government’s mission to address critical skill gaps and create an inclusive, responsive framework to support a thriving economy. In the North East, this drive is especially relevant, where equipping the workforce with future-ready skills is essential for local economic potential.
At MTC Training, our mission aligns with this transformation. We support businesses and individuals across the North East with a range of training pathways, from practical digital certifications to advanced cybersecurity and management training, tailored to meet the region’s current and future needs.
Bridging the Gap: The Skills England Report and Workforce Development Needs
According to the Skills England report, skill shortages accounted for over a third of UK vacancies in 2022—a steep rise compared to previous years. This issue is especially pronounced in sectors such as technology, engineering, and healthcare, where skills gaps directly hinder growth. The North East faces unique challenges in these fields and addressing these will be essential for regional stability and progress.
MTC Training’s Role in a Thriving Skills System
In response to Skills England’s vision for a cohesive, accessible skills system, MTC Training works closely with local businesses and educational institutions. We offer tailored programs that address the evolving requirements of the North East’s workforce and align with Skills England’s broader vision.
Our pathways, like those in cybersecurity, project management, and digital literacy, guide learners from entry-level qualifications to advanced certifications. This approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement and skill development, enabling local employers to recruit individuals who can immediately contribute to business growth and innovation.
Building Skills for the Future Economy: Meeting Regional Needs
As Skills England notes, future job markets will demand a workforce ready to tackle technological advancements, demographic shifts, and environmental sustainability. With over 1.4 million new jobs projected to emerge in the UK by 2035, much of the demand will centre on roles requiring technical and digital expertise.
At MTC Training, we’ve prioritised key areas to prepare our region for these challenges. Our cybersecurity programs, for instance, address one of the UK’s fastest-growing sectors, where the shortage of skilled professionals has contributed to a rising demand for certifications like Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and CompTIA CySA+. These industry-recognised certifications ensure that the North East’s workforce is well-equipped to secure businesses against cyber threats, which cost the UK economy £27 billion annually.
Supporting the North East’s Workforce through Apprenticeships: A Commitment to Future Leaders
At MTC Training, our Apprenticeship Team is dedicated to developing the North East’s talent with apprenticeship programs like the Business Administrator and Team Leader/Supervisor courses. These programs provide industry-relevant skills and hands-on experience to support professional growth across sectors.
Business Administrator Apprenticeship
Our 18-month Business Administrator Apprenticeship is designed to build a comprehensive skill set applicable across all sectors. Learners gain knowledge in communication, decision-making, and planning, with workshops covering time management, organisational purpose, and team dynamics. This Level 3 apprenticeship includes one-to-one coaching, mentoring, and online learning, enabling participants to drive organisational goals and develop professionally.
Team Leader Apprenticeship
Our new 15-month Team Leader apprenticeship provides first line manager leadership skills, enhancing learners’ abilities to manage people, build trust, and communicate with internal and external stakeholders effectively. Covering topics including people and relationships, building a high performing team, managing change and future plans and opportunities. The programme culminates in an end point assessment by the CMI and Foundation Chartered Manager Status, recognised by offering a springboard to future leadership roles.
For more information about these apprenticeship opportunities, and to learn how our courses can benefit your workforce, visit MTC Training’s website.
Skills England report: driving growth and widening opportunities – GOV.UK
