Rapid advancements in technology, demographic shifts, and environmental changes are transforming the way we work and the skills required for today’s workforce and the workforce of the future. In Scotland, colleges play a central role in the skills system. Through their efforts, they drive productivity improvements and help align the supply of skills with regional demand. In doing so, they create opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to access education and improve their life prospects
Edinburgh is Scotland’s economic capital and, outside of London, the strongest major city economy in the UK. As the capital’s only College, Edinburgh College takes a proactive approach to preparing the region’s workforce to meet the challenges of the ever-evolving economy, demonstrating how important College education and skills training is in addressing skills gaps and providing Scottish businesses with the workforce they need.
Through employer research, innovative programmes, a dynamic curriculum, cutting-edge facilities, bespoke training and industry partnerships, the College is equipping students and professionals with the advanced skills required to excel in their careers while addressing critical skills gaps in industry.
Our Capital, Our Workforce
Earlier this year, the College published a research report entitled Our Capital, Our Workforce, which collated and discussed the findings of a study carried out on the extent and nature of skills shortages across Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian.
A total of 57 employers, representing almost 17,000 employees from across the region, responded to the 30-question survey, with a smaller number taking part in a more detailed interview to explore issues around recruitment, retention and skills policy.
What came through strongly from the results was that the last five years have precipitated an even greater pace of change in the nature of work and the future skills needs of the Edinburgh economy. The findings suggest the need to upskill our workforce and drive economic productivity through innovation has never been greater.
The research is helping to inform how the College works with employer partners as it looks to continue to enhance its role as the region’s primary skills provider.
Health and Care pathways
As the demand for skilled health and care professionals in Scotland and the wider UK continues to grow, so does the importance of colleges in educating and nurturing the workforce.
Edinburgh College has reimagined how it trains healthcare professionals by introducing new and bespoke programmes which align with industry standards and emerging trends. The College is working in close collaboration with local healthcare providers and NHS boards and has adapted its learning spaces as it embraces technology-enabled care and simulated experiences which reflect real life settings – ensuring learning and teaching remains relevant and impactful. A strong partnership with NHS Lothian enables the College to deliver customised training to progress students directly into the workplace, contributing to filling essential job vacancies with people qualified to do so.
Training is delivered by College lecturers and NHS professionals, combining education and industry to ensure the programme is addressing local healthcare system demands whilst providing a clear pathway to employment and professional development thereafter. The training is hosted in the College’s Digital Care Hub, a dedicated space focused on building students’ digital and practical skills using state-of-the-art equipment and supporting experiential learning in a purpose-built setting.
Constructing futures
The annual industry forecast (May 2024) from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) highlighted that the Scottish construction industry is facing a significant skills shortage, with an estimated need for 26,100 additional workers by 2028 to meet growing demand and sustain industry growth.
Edinburgh College provides education and training to thousands of students, apprentices and construction workers each year, as well as engaging with young people from across the region’s schools to provide insight into a range of careers and the different pathways into the construction industry. The College works with partners on the ‘Constructing Futures’ programme – a partnership with Kier Construction, Currie Community High School and the Rural and Urban Training scheme (RUTS) which involves pupils attending site on a weekly basis – working with the College and the project team to undertake the NPA Construction Craft and Technician qualification within a dedicated construction academy set-up.
Further to this, the College recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Robertson Group, as part of its ambitions to provide construction students with hands-on experience and development opportunities. The partnership will focus on widening access to careers in construction, providing work experience, and making sure the College’s training and education aligns with industry needs – strengthening the College’s links with employers.
English for Speakers of Other Languages
Recent research suggests that lack of English language ability was identified as an underappreciated driver of economic inactivity in the Edinburgh region. The College provides English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programmes to around 1,200 students annually. The ESOL offer includes a range of English for Work programmes that combine English language and employability skills including some focused on industry sectors where skills gaps present an ongoing challenge for the region such as health and care, computing and childhood practice.
By aligning ESOL provision with industry needs and student aspirations, the College is equipping people not only with the language proficiency to integrate socially but with the skills necessary for building successful careers.
Summary
Through this work, Edinburgh College is supporting the career paths and prospects of individuals as well as addressing key economic challenges in partnership with industry. Alongside this work, the College’s remit includes award-winning innovation projects, green skills training aligned to future skills needs, and a portfolio of bespoke reskilling and upskilling courses for partners across the region. Combined, these demonstrate that the College is not just a place of social sanctuary and cultural diversity, but of economic dynamism for Scotland’s capital and the wider country.
