New 2025 Essex LSIP Progress Report Published Highlighting Key Developments in Local Skills Planning

01st July 2025

The Essex Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) team is pleased to announce the publication of its latest Progress Report, detailing important advancements in aligning local education provision with the skills needs of employers across the region. This updated report marks a significant milestone in Essex’s journey to address regional...

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Industry Leaders Unite to Discuss Skills in Ag Tech Sector

11th June 2025

Our LSIP Executive Director attended the Basildon Business Supply Chain Readiness event with our members CNH Industrial and Leonardo UK Ltd. Joanne Giles, the Executive Director of the Essex Local Skills Improvement Plan, was delighted to attend the latest Basildon Business Leaders Breakfast Briefing at the New Holland Showroom...

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Apprenticeship Plans are ‘Mixed Bag’ for Business

27th May 2025

Responding to the Government’s plans for apprenticeships in England, Alex Veitch, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Apprenticeships are high-quality, valued qualifications and businesses welcome the funding boost announced by Government. “The BCC has long called for flexibility in the Growth and Skills Levy for...

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Pace of Immigration Changes Must Work for Business

12th May 2025

Responding to the publication of the Immigration White Paper, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director Public Policy, at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Businesses are keen to unlock more home-grown talent and will welcome the broad direction of travel in today’s White Paper. “A commitment to drive better strategic planning...

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Business Seek Action On Lost Generation

28th April 2025

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is warning of a lost generation unless the Government urgently tackles the jobs crisis among young people.  It says immediate action is needed to remove barriers preventing almost a million people in Generation Z from engaging with work, education and contributing to society....

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Labour Market Pressures Bearing Down on Firms

15th April 2025

Responding to the latest labour market data, published by the ONS this morning, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “The labour market continues to be a significant pressure bearing down on businesses of all sizes. “The rising cost of employment is a...

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Apprenticeship Week with LSIP Director, Joanne Giles

20th February 2025

Year on year, Apprenticeship Week is becoming a bigger and bigger event, and this year was no exception. Taking place between 10th – 14th February, the week is an occasion for businesses, educators and training providers to showcase and celebrate their apprenticeship provision. It’s also a great opportunity to...

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Labour Market Update: Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners – February 2025

19th February 2025

Yesterday, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) released the latest labour market data including insights on the unemployment rate, economic inactivity, vacancies, and pay growth. Recruitment experts, Pertemps, have produced a summary of the data for small businesses. Overall trends – February 2025 Market Overview: Between October and December...

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10,000 more apprentices as Government slashes red tape to boost growth

11th February 2025

Shorter and flexible apprenticeships and new English and maths requirements to boost skills and support employers.  Up to 10,000 more apprentices will be able to qualify per year as the government cuts red tape to boost economic growth by giving employers more flexibility over maths and English requirements. Rules...

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Labour Market Update: Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners – January 2025

21st January 2025

Today, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) released the latest labour market data including insights on the unemployment rate, economic inactivity, vacancies, and pay growth. Recruitment experts, Pertemps, have produced a summary of the data for small businesses. Overall trends – January 2025 Market Overview: Between September to November...

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