Apprenticeship System Reform Must Go Further

09th February 2026

A new report from the British Chambers of Commerce is calling for the government to reform the apprenticeship system to make it fit for the 21st Century. As the UK celebrates National Apprenticeships Week, it finds that the current framework is too rigid, lacks clarity, neglects higher-level skills and...

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Skills England unveils ‘roadmap’ for local skills to drive growth

20th November 2025

Development of second round of Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIP) is now underway. New guidance to steer the process has been launched by Skills England. New guidance published today will empower local leaders, employers, colleges, independent training providers, and universities to transform skills training across England – driving national...

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The Power of Collaboration in LSIP 2.0 Development

16th October 2025

Collaboration is central to progress, fostering shared learning, innovation, and growth. By working together, we exchange diverse perspectives, challenge assumptions, and co-create meaningful solutions. This dynamic environment accelerates the development of essential skills such as communication, adaptability, and strategic thinking. Collaborative practice also builds trust and resilience, qualities vital...

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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 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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First report from Skills England

25th September 2024

The Government have announced an overhaul to apprenticeships to support opportunity. The first report from Skills England, the government’s new body for the skills system, has also been published which you can view here.     Joanne Giles, Director of the Essex LSIP said: “Skills shortages are a major concern for Essex businesses,...

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Essex Chambers of Commerce chosen as lead for delivering the Essex LSIP

07th December 2022

The Essex Chambers of Commerce is delighted to announce that we have been chosen by the Department for Education as lead for delivering the Essex Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP). The LSIP’s are being developed across England to provide employers with a voice and gain a perspective of the...

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