STORY
Skills England has published its first Annual Skills Report, warning that up to 1.8 million additional workers may be needed across priority sectors over the next decade. The report said demand in those sectors is expected to grow by around 24%, increasing pressure on ministers to reform apprenticeships, technical education and adult training.
The body said the skills system needed to respond more quickly to labour market demand, particularly in areas linked to the Government’s Industrial Strategy. It identified shortages in key occupations, falling employer investment, the rapid spread of artificial intelligence, youth employability and weak local alignment between training and jobs as central challenges.
Baroness Smith of Malvern said the report showed the importance of preparing the workforce for future demand while supporting people into lasting careers. The findings follow Alan Milburn’s interim report on young people and work, which highlighted the number of 16 to 24-year-olds not in education, employment or training.