College wins share of ?2.5 million skills funding
Pic: Eastleigh College
The South Hampshire College Group, which includes Eastleigh College[1], is celebrating the allocation of a £2.5 million skills fund boost for the Solent region. The funding, part of the Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF), aims to strategically support colleges, universities, and training providers in addressing key industry skills gaps. Other beneficiaries of the LSIF include Brockenhurst College, HSDC, City of Portsmouth College, and Barton Peveril Sixth Form College, among others.
This initiative responds directly to the specific skills needs identified by local businesses and employers through their Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs). Hampshire Chamber of Commerce led the skills gap research for the region, contributing valuable insights for targeted investment.
Andrew Kaye, CEO of South Hampshire College Group, welcomed the news saying: “The LSIF award is a recognition of the excellent joint efforts in our region, especially in supporting the development of the Solent LSIP.” importance of this targeted investment in providing a skilled workforce for the region’s growth, along with state-of-the-art industry facilities.
The Solent region has identified key sectors for development, including the creative industry, maritime, and freeport sectors. Focus areas include production arts, logistics, supply chain management, digital innovation, and healthcare technology. The initiative also involves substantial investment in research and development to enhance higher-level progression pathways and improve employability.
Ross McNally, CEO and Executive Chair of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, praised the collaboration, stating, “The collaboration between the Chambers of Commerce, educational institutions, and businesses is a great example of how working together can make a real difference.”
Education Secretary Gillian Keegan highlighted the significance of the investment in boosting local industries, building skills, and future-proofing the economy. She said that these long-term plans aim to ensure every area has a brighter economic future.
For further details on the South Hampshire College Group and its impact, visit www.shcg.ac.uk[2].