Businesses need to get behind early drive for skills

Editor 

Despite a recent fall in unemployment, it’s clear that skills are still the most significant economic issue (UK ‘would gain £2tn by boosting low achieving pupils’ skills- 13^th May). This is a huge opportunity and should not only motivate education policy makers, but businesses across the country. The fact that 20 per cent of UK pupils are leaving school without basic skills such as numeracy and problem-solving, means that employers pick up the slack, and in many cases cannot find the talent they need to grow their companies. A more sustainable approach that sees increased business partnership and volunteering in schools, coupled with more work experience opportunities will ensure that young people can hone the practical skills vital to the workplace. Our economy will perform best once everyone has a chance to contribute.

Mark Boleat

Policy chairman, City of London Corporation

London

EC2P 7HH