Author: Tim Ridgway

CIFAL Surrey brings UN-backed sustainability institute to the region

Published 27 November 2024

Innovation

CIFAL Surrey – a United Nations-backed study centre for sustainability – has launched, aiming to tackle major global challenges by empowering local leaders and communities.  

Drastically improving the UKโ€™s ability to address climate change is the grand challenge that the new United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)-affiliated CIFAL centre will tackle.  

It launched this week (Monday, 25 November) at the University of Surrey in Guildford with a ceremonial UN flag raising, a Signing Ceremony and a panel event.

In attendance was a senior delegation from UNITAR, Zรถe Franklin, MP for Guildford, and a range of the universityโ€™s collaborative partners in business and government.

What is CIFAL Surrey?  

Situated within the Universityโ€™s Institute for Sustainability, CIFAL Surrey will deliver both training and capacity building on a wide range of sustainability challenges.

This includes helping facilitate knowledge exchange among leaders in government, the private sector, and civil society โ€“ locally, nationally and internationally, as well as UK-based international organisations. 

The CIFAL Centre will draw on the University of Surreyโ€™s strong research heritage and active engagement in sustainability.

It will work with UNITAR (the UNโ€™s training branch) and the CIFAL Global Network among other stakeholders to lead both training and capacity-building initiatives in sustainability.

This will ensure CIFAL Surrey makes a unique and much-needed contribution to empowering climate leadership through enhanced climate literacy within and beyond Surrey. 

CIFAL Surrey will also work in partnership with national and local government, industry, civil society, and beyond. This includes developing sustainable economic practices, and helping to advance action towards the UNโ€™s Sustainable Development Goals.

CIFAL Surrey is the second UN-affiliated centre on campus, following the 2023 launch of the Centre of Excellence for Ageing, which appointed its first cohort of Fellows in June 2024. 

CIFAL Surrey – what they say

Professor Amelia Hadfield, Associate Vice President for External Engagement, and the new Director of CIFAL Surrey, said: Sustainability is far more than just a philosophy limited to net zero here at the University of Surrey. For us, and our community, sustainability reflects our deep, shared commitment to rebuilding a thriving planet for future generations. From the fundamentals of climate change to advanced policy implementation, CIFAL Surrey will provide hands-on training and resources to national and local government, businesses, and community groups, helping them deliver on the demands for a more sustainable future.

Alex Mejia, Division Director at United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), said: “We are honoured to inaugurate CIFAL Surrey, hosted by the University of Surrey, a renowned global institution at the forefront of innovation and learning. This new centre will mark an important step in our mission to advance sustainable development and capacity-building worldwide. It will serve as a vital hub for fostering collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange across the United Kingdom and beyond.”

Councillor Matt Furniss, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth at Surrey County Council, said: It’s a pleasure to be able to welcome the team from the United Nations to launch this new international centre in the heart of Surrey.

The CIFAL centre will play a key role in promoting sustainable development at home and abroad while also opening up opportunities for our communities. It also reinforces the region’s global reputation for innovation, research and knowledge exchange.

Sustainability support for your business

Surrey is committed to a net zero future โ€“ and as businesses in our vibrant regional economy, you are vital to achieving this goal by 2050.

There is lots of practical support, courses and funding out there to help your business along the way.

Looking for help to get started? Get in touch via our business support form and we can provide bespoke support for your business.

Surrey County Council is also providing a series of free “decarbonise your business” sessions throughout 2024 and 2025.

Plus you can visit our events page or sign up to our newsletter for further opportunities.

The exterior of a modern glass building standing in leafy surroundings, including trees, lawn and a large lake

First ever Surrey Careers Hub Conference brings employers and educators closer together

Published 19 November 2024

Skills and workforce

Bridging the gap between education and employment to boost opportunities for all was the focus of the first ever Surrey Careers Hub conference.

Up to 70 representatives from employers, schools, colleges and training providers attended the event last week at Nescot College in Epsom.

The aim was to celebrate the successes achieved in the first year of the Surrey Careers Hub and explore ways to raise awareness of all the opportunities available to young people in secondary education so they can take their next best step.

By doing so, this will help young people into fulfilling employment while supporting growth in the regional economy.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Councilโ€™s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, opened the event. He said: โ€œProviding clear pathways for our young people to gain the skills and information they need for their future careers is vital. Through Surrey Careers Hub, we have the framework in place to offer world class careers provision across the whole of Surrey. 

โ€œWe have a strong and diverse economy with internationally recognised sectors and outstanding education settings – and it is up to all of us to bring those two things closer together.

โ€œI look forward to seeing our employers and educators continuing to work together to provide opportunities for all our young people, regardless of their background. In time this will deliver benefits to them as individuals, to our businesses and the wider economy.โ€

A year of Surrey Careers Hub

Surrey Careers Hub was launched in September 2023 by Surrey County Council with funding from The Careers & Enterprise Company.

During the first 12 months, the Surrey Careers Hub team has:

  • Engaged 95 maintained schools, colleges, special schools, alternative provisions and Pupil Referral Units;
  • Recruited more than 90 volunteers from the business community to support the delivery of careers related activities for students;
  • Provided opportunities for teachers and students to learn more about careers in Surreyโ€™s growth sectors, such as gaming, cyber security, creative industries and construction and infrastructure;
  • Supported the progression of schools and colleges across all eight Gatsby Benchmarks; the government recognised framework of good careers education.

Georgina Angele, Strategic Hub Lead at Surrey Careers Hub, said: โ€œBridging the skills gap is one of the most pressing issues facing the UK economy, even in a region as large and diverse as Surrey.

โ€œThis gap not only hampers business growth but also hampers wider economic development – which is why the work weโ€™re doing is so important.

โ€œOur ambition is to ensure Surrey has an engaged, informed and skilled future workforce to meet the demands of the modern economy โ€“ but we can only do that with the support and input from employers, educators and our young people.โ€

Highlights of the first-ever Surrey Careers Hub conference

The conference saw a variety of speakers talk about a range of issues relevant to the work of the Surrey Careers Hub.

This included businesses, such as Guildford-based IT support services firm ramsac, which recently hosted two groups of teachers to learn more about their work as part of the Teachers Encounters programme. These are workplace experiences for teachers, helping to connect their subject teaching and learning to the world of work.

Delegates also heard from representatives of The Careers & Enterprise Company, a Headteacher, young people and industry stakeholders.

Julie Kapsalis, Principal of Nescot College, who is also a member of the Surrey Careers Hub Cornerstone Employers Group, said: โ€œI am so passionate about the work weโ€™re doing collaboratively around careers, for us as a business but primarily for students. This allows us to respond far better to the wider economic needs of businesses.

โ€œItโ€™s that commitment to raise the quality of careers education, to tackle disadvantage and barriers to success, which is why I am so proud to be involved with the Surrey Careers Hub.โ€

For more details visit the Surrey Careers Hub website.

Play your part

There are lots of ways Surrey businesses can support Surrey’s future workforce.

  • Want to support the work of the Surrey Careers Hub? Weโ€™re looking for professionals from all sectors and business of all sizes to work with Careers Leaders and Education Leaders as Enterprise Advisers to shape their careers education strategies. Get in touch via our contact us form for further details.
  • Sign up to the Business Surrey newsletter for updates around workforce development
A group of people stand posing for a picture while standing in front of a Surrey Careers Hub promotional banner.
A man in a blue jacket and white shirt stands on stage presenting to an audience. He stands in front of a Surrey Careers Hub banner.
A woman in a black top is at a networking event talking to a group of people. She has a Surrey Careers Hub lanyard around her neck.
Two women - one in a purple blouse, the other in a black and white dress - stand on stage presenting. In the background is a Surrey Careers Hub promotional banner.
A man in shirt and tie is sat in a auditorium with red seats. He is turned to the audience and smiling.
A cake with white and green icing is sat on a plate waiting to be served. It is decorated in Surrey Careers Hub brand colours.

International Trade Week 2024 gets underway – with new Export offer from Business Surrey

Published 12 November 2024

Business news

The fourth edition of International Trade Week (ITW) is taking place this week (Monday 11 to Friday 15 November 2024).

Led by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and sponsored by Santander UK, in partnership with industry, ITW 2024 will feature five action-packed days of events, workshops and webinars โ€“ all free for businesses to attend.

Whether youโ€™re looking to secure your first export contract or expand your existing international sales, ITW will have something for you.

The weekโ€™s activities are for UK companies of all sizes and sectors โ€“ you just need an interest in growing your business.

Register for International Trade Week events

You will only need to complete registration once to become a member of the UK Export Academy.

From there, you will be able to register for as many free ITW events as you wish.

Check back regularly as events are being added everyday.

If you have any questions about ITW 2024, contact the Department for Business and Trade via email.

Benefits of taking part

  • Develop your exporting knowledge and skills
  • Discover the wide-ranging support available from DBT and its partners
  • Learn about global opportunities and how to seize them
  • Understand the benefits of trade deals the UK has signed
  • Hear from, and speak to, experts in international trade

Export support for Surrey businesses

Business Surrey is a Surrey County Council service providing free and accessible support for all businesses in Surrey. This includes those wanting to export or trade internationally.

Whether you need help navigating trade regulations or finding overseas buyers, our team can connect you with the right partners and tools to ensure your international success.

As part of the 2024 edition of International Trade Week, we have launched our new Export and International Trade page on our website.

This includes highlighting opportunities from supporting organisations who can guide you on your export journey.

Unlock new growth opportunities by exploring the export support services available to your business.

You can also:

Promotional image for International Trade Week 2024

FORT programme to train future AI and cyber leaders in Surrey

Published 6 November 2024

Innovation, Skills and workforce

Surrey’s reputation as a leader in cyber security and Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been reinforced with the launch of the new multi-million pound FORT programme.

The ยฃ8 million Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Open Secure Networks (FORT) was launched at the University of Surrey’s 5G/6G Innovation Centre last month.

Running in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, it will support at least 50 PhD researchers to develop their skills and industry-ready innovations over the next eight years.

They will work with industry partners including Rolls Royce, AWS, HP, Virgin Media, BT and Keysight Technologies.

Academic researchers claim these highly specialised skills are crucial for ensuring private and secure communications in the future.

It will underline the university and wider region’s credentials as an innovation powerhouse which nurtures advanced skills in wireless communications, AI, and cyber security.

What is the FORT programme?

The FORT centre for doctoral training is a community of postgraduate researchers who will become industry-conscious thinkers and leaders.

It is supported by ยฃ8 million in government funding, through the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

The launch event highlighted the importance of training postgraduate researchers in the fast-evolving fields of wireless communications, AI, cybersecurity, and networking.

It featured demonstrations, discussions and networking sessions. It gave attendees with insights into the future of telecommunications, AI, and cybersecurity.

Industry partners also shared their vision for the collaboration. They also stressed the significance of academic-industry partnerships in addressing the real-world challenges faced by the telecommunications sector.

Professor Rahim Tafazolli, Head of the Institute for Communication Systems (ICS), said: The collaboration between academia and industry is pivotal in positioning the UK as a leader in secure and resilient communications networks.

The launch of FORT is just the beginning of a bold journey towards shaping the future of telecommunications.

“The backing of the EPSRC has been essential in establishing this partnership between Surrey, Queen’s and our 21 valued industry partners. Together we have the potential to deliver a transformational shift in the UK’s position at the heart of innovation for future global telecommunications infrastructure.”

Innovation and Surrey

Surrey is leading the way in several key sectors crucial to the UKโ€™s future economy. And Business Surrey is focused on supporting these sectors to grow and reach their potential.

We’re nurturing and bringing together companies in these key sectors as part of our clusters work.

We are also working with researchers and funding establishments to bring in investment and build infrastructure.

Plus we work with training providers to ensure the countyโ€™s future workforce has the necessary skills for these sectors to prosper for years to come.

Do you work in a cyber or artificial intelligence and looking for support to grow? Get in touch with our experts via our business support form.

The exterior of a large commercial building covered in brown cladding with a large canopy. On the outside of the building is a large University of Surrey logo.

Gatwick Airport supplier opportunity for Surrey construction firms

Published 4 November 2024

Business news

Construction companies across Surrey are being encouraged to sign up as a potential Gatwick Airport supplier.

With 41 million annual passengers, London Gatwick is the UK’s second largest airports. It is a major driver of national and regional economy, generating ยฃ5.5 billion GVA and supporting over 76,000 jobs.

Gatwick has a supply chain commitment to working with businesses based in the region. This means businesses based in the local area can benefit from contracts worth ยฃ151 million a year.

As part of its new overarching Supply Chain Strategy, the airport is now looking to expand its database of construction companies.

It has set up a survey form to identify Surrey businesses in construction-related industries that are interested in working at London Gatwick. 

Those interested should complete the Expression of Interest form on the Gatwick Airport website.

Gatwick’s construction supply chain strategy

London Gatwick has developed a new overarching Supply Chain Strategy linked to its wider Capital Investment Programme.

The new Construction Frameworks will deliver improved facilities and services for its passengers and airline customers over the next six years. It includes construction works, various professional services including design services, and surveys.

To ensure the airport has a capable, engaged, and strong supply chain to respond and deliver the associated works, the Supply Chain team have developed an Expression of Interest Survey for businesses working in construction-related industries. 

This will enable the airport and its contractors to promote future indirect opportunities to work with Tier 1 framework suppliers on relevant projects in 2025 and beyond. 

The opportunity is open to all businesses in Surrey. So whether you have previously delivered works directly to London Gatwick or not, the airport wants to hear from you. This will help it understand the range of capabilities that local and regional businesses offer.

Other Gatwick Airport supplier opportunities

Gatwick is a major driver for the local and regional economy, as well as supporting the wider UK economy. It is committed to supporting local businesses and creating new opportunities associated with its local supply chain. 

Are you a regional small and medium-sized business that wants to work with Gatwick Airport?

Regional small and medium-sized enterprise businesses in certainโ€ฏpostcodes canโ€ฏregister their interest in working with the airport as a supplier. 

Note: this is only open to SMEs located in the RH, BN, CR, KT, TN, GU, PO, SM, ME, CT, BR and DA postcodes).

Full details of Gatwick’s procurement policy is available on its website.

Looking for additional help and support

Business Surrey is a Surrey County Council service providing free and accessible support for all businesses in Surrey. This includes help with contracts, procurement and access to funding.

Our team of experts can provide independent and impartial advice on growing your business.

A series of planes line up at passenger docking ports at Gatwick Airport.

KFC UK: a Surrey Success Story

Published 29 October 2024

Skills and workforce, Surrey Success Stories

KFC UK is the latest of our Surrey Success Stories, a collection of video case studies of businesses โ€“ large and small โ€“ that are putting our region on the map. Click on the video below to discover why Surrey is a great place for this international brand to have its UK base .

KFC UK: an iconic brand with an iconic founder

It’s an iconic global brand with a founder as famous as its food. But how many of you knew that Colonel Sanders’ fried chicken legacy is rooted in Surrey as well as Kentucky?

It’s nearly a century since the white suited Sanders first started serving his fried chicken in a roadside motel in the United States. The taste is now exported round the world, including the UK.

Kentucky Fried Chicken – known better as KFC – opened its first UK restaurant in Preston, Lancashire in the 1960s.

And the UK operation has never looked back. Currently there are more than 1,000 branches in the UK. And its parent company KFC UK has an annual turnover of close to ยฃ300 million.

This major operation is all coordinated from a UK headquarters in the heart of the Surrey town of Woking.

KFC’s secret to success

So how has a company founded in the southern US state of Kentucky come to be so popular?

Well, the food is pretty good – with the unique blend of 11 herbs and spices still very much a top level secret.

The company is also committed to being bold and innovative.

Jo Tivers, Head of Food and Quality, said: “I love working in the fast food industry. As the name suggests, it’s really, really fast. We can be really innovative, we can try new things. We have a customer base that is really interested in trying new things.”

The company is also big on investing in its people – with culture being a real focus. It claims to be “people first culture, really heart-led” – with a real focus on supporting and championing young people, especially with their first jobs.

As Hema Ladwa, People Experience Lead, explains: “We really believe that everyone has the potential, we just need to feed that potential, whether it’s feeding them chicken or whether it’s feeding them through their knowledge and through their learning and development.”

This commitment inspires loyalty and nurtures talent, for now and into the future.

KFC UK and Surrey

KFC UK has had its restaurant support centre in Woking for more than 25 years. About 350 people are based there, with location being a major plus point – for business and for pleasure.

With direct train links to London taking 30 minutes and the M25 and two major airports a short drive away, connectivity couldn’t be better.

Jenny Packwood, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, said: “Not only do we have great proximity to London, the trains are really quick in and out to London for people who live there. And because we’re international, the proximity to Heathrow and Gatwick is also really helpful.”

Woking is also a fantastic place for people to be live, continually being ranked among the best places in the UK to reside.

There’s culture, countryside, shopping, great food and drink plus access to a range of recreational facilities.

Jo Tivers, Head of Food and Quality, said: “It’s great to be able to go into the weekend, enjoy lunch out with the family, take them to the theatre, to the cinema. There’s always something incredible to do.”

Looking to relocate your business to Surrey?

Thanks to our desirable location, reputation for innovation and collaborative business ecosystem, Surrey is a top business location of choice.

As part of Business Surrey, Surrey County Council offers the Invest in Surrey service.

Our specialised team offers free and confidential services. We assist companies looking to invest and grow in Surrey.

Whether youโ€™re a start-up, SME or international company, you can benefit from specialist expertise, local knowledge and business support.

Get in touch with the team today via our business support form.

A red and white bucket with the words KFC on it is on a table. In the background is a picture of Colonel Sanders, the founder of KFC.
Image of fried chicken on a wire tray. A person in a black apron is using tongs to lift the chicken into a KFC bucket.
Two people - a man in a black jacket and a woman in a short sleeved grey top - sit at a table talking to each other. In the background is the words "Finger Lickin Good" in neon lighting, which is the slogan for KFC UK.

Business Blog: Why young people are crucial to growing our future economy

Published 23 October 2024

Skills and workforce, Thought leadership

Georgina Angele, Strategic Hub Lead for Surrey Careers Hub, has almost two decades of experience working to connect schools and colleges with employers. In our latest business blog, she explains how Surrey businesses can play their part in equipping young people with future skills โ€“ and why it will benefit them and the wider economy down the line.

In todayโ€™s rapidly evolving job market, the importance of equipping young people with relevant employment skills whilst still in school or college cannot be overstated.  

As we navigate the 21st century, the landscape of work is being reshaped by continual changes in technology, national policy and globalisation. 

To support future economic growth and help young people achieve their potential, it is imperative we prepare them with the skills they will need to thrive. 

As Strategic Hub Lead for the Surrey Careers Hub, itโ€™s my role to directly work with employers and education providers to unlock opportunities โ€“ bringing them closer together, so that we can ensure young people have a range of meaningful careers experiences while they are still in school and college.ย ย Read on to find out more, or if you’re ready to involved sign up now to become a strategic Enterprise Advisor working with a local school.

Bridging the Skills Gap 

One of the most pressing challenges facing economies across the UK is the skills gap, even in an economy as diverse and large as Surrey. 

Employers across a range of sectors often report difficulties in finding candidates coming out of education with the skills required for the positions available.   

This gap not only hampers business growth but also limits economic development. 

This is why the creation of the Surrey Careers Hub just over a year ago has been so important to our regional economy. 

We work with more than 97% of secondary schools, colleges, special schools and alternative provisions, connecting them to employers in all sectors. 

The aim is to ensure young people have an awareness of the opportunities available to them while making sure education providers know which skills their young people need to succeed once they finish their education. 

The Surrey Careers Hub ensures there is a single approach for the whole county. And we can tailor this work to the key sectors which are crucial to our future economy, such as Artificial Intelligence, gaming, creative industries and infrastructure. 

By integrating careers provision into the education system, we can bridge the skills gap and create an engaged workforce that is ready to meet the demands of the modern economy. 

Enhancing Employability 

Equipping students with relevant skills enhances their employability, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.  

Skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, oracy (the ability to express yourself fluently and coherently), adaptability, resilience, and digital literacy are increasingly valued by employers.  

By fostering these skills early on, we can ensure that young people are not only prepared for their first job, but also have the adaptability to navigate multiple career changes throughout their lives. 

Seeing how these skills can be applied to the โ€˜real wordโ€™ is also crucial. 

One way we do this is by supporting schools and colleges to provide regular engagement points for their students with employers. 

These can range from mock interviews and workplace experiences to big events, such as the recent Surrey Festival of Skills.  

We also look to level the field for those from disadvantaged backgrounds, as part of our wider No One Left Behind mission. So, we target our funding and interventions to support those young people who face multiple barriers to engaging in education, have additional needs and disabilities and experience socio-economic disadvantage.  

By creating opportunities for all, weโ€™re providing young people with the awareness and confidence to explore the range of opportunities that employers in Surrey can offer. 

Aligning Education with Industry Needs 

To effectively equip young people with relevant employment skills, it is essential to align the things taught in the classroom with industry needs.  

This requires collaboration between educational institutions, businesses, and policymakers at both a national and regional level. 

While we work strategically across Surrey, our work is guided and majority funded by The Careers & Enterprise Company, a national body funded by the Department for Education. 

It oversees the provision of quality careers education in schools and colleges across the UK. It ensures all activities are aligned to the Gatsby Benchmarks. And has resources so that young people receive the guidance and support they need to make informed career choices. 

One way we are doing this is by reinventing work experience, acknowledging that a shift to hybrid working makes intensive weekly or fortnightly programmes during the summer no longer feasible for many employers. 

Instead, we are encouraging a shift for students to gain regular experiences of the workplace throughout their time in secondary education. This will include short, targeted workplace visits; one-day project-based experiences; and longer structured placements.   

We are also working directly with employers to help them assess, monitor and improve their educational outreach, achieve social value commitments, create a diverse workforce, and recruit local talent into their business.  

Promoting Lifelong Learning 

Promoting opportunity does not stop as soon as people enter the workplace. 

The concept of lifelong learning is becoming increasingly important in todayโ€™s world of accelerated change.  

By instilling a love for learning and a commitment to continuous skills development, we can ensure that young people remain adaptable and resilient in the face of change.  

This mindset not only benefits their personal and professional growth, but also contributes to the overall economic health of the nation. 

One way weโ€™re doing that as a team is by running a programme of Teacher Encounters.ย ย 

This takes subject teachers out of their classrooms and into the workplace. We piloted it last year with the gaming and cybersecurity sectors in Surrey (see our LinkedIn post here). 

They learned how their subjects connect to the world of work and which skills employers need in their future workforce.  

We are scaling Teacher Encounters this academic year to include a wider range of industries โ€“ including construction, highways, creative & cultural industries, engineering and the NHS. If you want to get involved, then please contact us. 

There are also many opportunities out there right now for employers to invest in their workforce. 

One such as example is the Multiply scheme, which is free for those who do not have a GCSE in maths. 

These fun, flexible sessions are available both in person and online. And by encouraging your colleagues to take part you could help improve your business performance in the long run. 

Find out more on the Multiply page of the Surrey County Council website. 

How You Can Help 

These are just some ways we are focused on equipping our young people with the skills to support future business growth. But we cannot do it alone.  

The role of employers across the region is crucial to planning how we do this, and also in the delivery. 

There are several ways you can support this work.  

Weโ€™re currently looking for people with business experience to volunteer as Enterprise Advisers. This is a strategic role, working with Careers Leaders in schools to help them develop impactful careers programmes.  

Itโ€™s a hugely rewarding role. You will have direct influence on the direction of the careers programme in the school youโ€™re matched to. And you’ll help improve the prospects of the young people who attend that school.

If you want to know more, then please get in touch via our contact form. 

To see a full list of opportunities with the Surrey Careers Hub, visit the Surrey Careers Hub web page. 

A woman in a black and white dress stands behind a lectern addressing a group of people in a conference room. Behind her are promotional materials for the Surrey Careers Hub.

2024 Surrey Festival of Skills inspires thousands about their futuresย 

Published 17 October 2024

Skills and workforce

Thousands of young people in Surrey have been inspired and fired up about their futures thanks to the 2024 Surrey Festival of Skills. 

From supercars to snakes, cooking masterclasses to computer game demonstrations, there were opportunities galore for students to explore at the Surrey County Council event.

More than 2,000 students aged 14 to 18 packed into Surrey Sports Park in Guildford. They could meet, great and connect with dozens of employers, universities, FE colleges and training providers. 

The aim was to showcase the fantastic opportunities on offer to them in Surrey, both now and in the future. 

Highlights included hairdressing masterclasses, samosa making, VR headsets and a McLaren supercar. 

There were also animals aplenty โ€“ with snakes, stick insects and lizards joined by a horse-riding simulator and robotic dog. 

Young people who attended the free event described it as โ€œimpactfulโ€, โ€œrewardingโ€ and โ€œfantasticโ€. 

Tim Oliver, Leader of Surrey County Council, opened the event. He said: โ€œNow in its second year, the Surrey Festival of Skills is a fantastic platform for organisations across the county to showcase the array of opportunities available to our young people.

โ€œSurrey has a vibrant and diverse economy, built on foundations of innovation and collaboration. Weโ€™re committed to working with public and private partners to grow our economy further while delivering benefits to our communities. 

โ€œBut we can only do this with a skilled and engaged workforce. That’s why itโ€™s so important to showcase the brilliant careers and training available to students right here on their doorstep.โ€

What is the Surrey Festival of Skills?

The Surrey Festival of Skills is open to all young people in education aged 14 to 18. This is regardless of whether they are educated in school, college, at home or by any other educational route. 

It is organised and funded by Surrey County Council, with support from the Association of Learning Providers Surrey (ALPS).  

Sponsorship for the 2024 edition was provided by consumer health company Haleon and highways services provider Ringway. 

More than 80 exhibitors took part representing a diverse range of industries. They included household names like Balfour Beatty, Siemens, McLaren, the Royal Navy and London Gatwick Airport. 

They were joined by specialist sectors such as gaming, cyber security, osteopathy, adult social care and early years. 

All of Surreyโ€™s further and higher education providers attended, along with a range of independent training providers. 

Public sector careers were championed by the Animal & Plant Health Agency, National Highways, NHS, Surrey Police and Surrey Fire & Rescue. 

“A day to remember”

Matt Furniss, the Councilโ€™s cabinet member for Highways, Transport and Economic growth, said: โ€œOnce again, the Surrey Festival of Skills has delivered a day to remember for everyone that took part. 

โ€œWe know days like this can play a huge impact on the choices young people make when they leave school or college.

โ€œI want to say a big thank you to all our exhibitors for once again supporting this fantastic event, especially our sponsors Haleon and Ringway. Thanks to their support, we can ensure this event remains free and accessible to thousands of young people across Surrey.โ€

Lewis Bridgman, Business Unit Manager at Ringway, said: โ€œRingway are committed to supporting local talent and building a brighter future for young people in our county. We believe in investing in skills and creating opportunities that pave the way for rewarding careers for a diversity of talent within the highways industry. Together we can build strong foundations for tomorrowโ€™s workforce. Ringway are proud to have sponsored the 2024 Surrey Festival of Skills.โ€

Abeera Mohammad, STEM Lead at Haleon said: โ€œHaleon are proud to have sponsored the Festival of Skills this year. As a world-leading consumer health company with our Headquarters based in Surrey, we were excited to promote STEM careers and give back to the community.โ€

Interested in supporting future skills initiatives in Surrey? Or Looking for support to skill up your workforce? Get in touch with the Business Surrey team via the contact us form.

You can also find about more about the event on the Surrey Festival of Skills website.

Five people - two women and three men - stand posing for a picture in front of promotional banners for the Surrey Festival of Skills. They are wearing professional outfits, including suits and shirts and smiling at the camera.
A teenager in a brown hooded top smiles at the camera while holding a large snake. He has headphones round his neck and is wearing a bag on his back. Next to him is a man in a black Activate Learning jacket. Both are smiling at the camera.
Thee teenager girls in school uniform walk alongside a robotic dog. They are in a sports hall and behind them are banners for the Surrey Festival of Skills.
An aerial view of a sports hall during a busy exhibition event. There are hundreds of people stood around dozens of stalls.

Decarbonise your business with free support for Surrey SMEs

Published 14 October 2024

Advice and support, Funding and grants

Free support for Surrey small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to decarbonise their business is now available from Surrey County Council.

Companies with fewer than 250 employees can sign up for the support. It’s only available to those based in the boroughs of Woking, Guildford, Waverley, Reigate and Banstead, Spelthorne and Surrey Heath.

Find out how to cut your energy costs, calculate your carbon footprint and get your business to Net Zero. You could even access a loan to go green!

Scroll down to see the free support which your Surrey business could access.

Or you can get in touch with our business experts, who can provide free bespoke advice for your business.

Free business decarbonisation course

A free business decarbonisation course is now up and running for eligible Surrey businesses.

The course will:

  • introduce a bit of business context relating to climate change and carbon literacy,
  • help you understand where your business’ emissions lay,
  • enable you to calculate your business carbon footprint;
  • help you become more sustainable, reduce your energy costs and cut your carbon footprint
  • help you define your business path to Net Zero, set targets and leverage your efforts to make your business more competitive and your products and services more desirable
  • empower you to adapt and build resilience to address climate change

Courses are available in person and online.

The in-person courses are:

  • Thursday 17 October 2024 at Guildford Borough Council
  • Wednesday 13 November 2024 at Surrey Heath Borough Council
  • Wednesday 27 November at Waverley Borough Council
  • Wednesday 22 January 2025 in Reigate and Banstead at Surrey County Council headquarters
  • Thursday 13 February 2025 in Woking
  • Thursday 6 March 2025 at Spelthorne Business Hub

On demand online courses will be made available from late October.

To book your space visit the Surrey County Council website.

Free carbon calculator tool

Ever wondered how much carbon your Surrey business uses?

As part of the decarbonisation course, you can find out! You’ll be given a one year licence to access and use the Climate Essential carbon calculator tool.

This will enable you to calculate your base line carbon footprint. Plus, you can see where you can make adjustments and gains to further reduce it.

Free business decarbonisation assessment

The free business decarbonisation assessment helps small and medium businesses in six Surrey boroughs to decarbonise and save on energy.

The online meeting is a virtual walk around premises, looking at energy use, transport, and supply chain.

A personalised report identifies opportunities for energy saving and projects which may be eligible for a business decarbonisation loan.

You can then decide if you wish to apply for a business decarbonisation loan to complete any or all of your decarbonisation projects.

There is no obligation to progress any of the potential projects to a loan application.

Business decarbonisation loan

The business decarbonisation loan programme has been created to help business and organisations decarbonise.

It will also allow you to invest to cut your energy bills, improve your premises and be more efficient.

Loans range from ยฃ5,000 to ยฃ15,000. It can can cover up to 50% of the total project cost. You will need to fund the rest.

Projects could include lighting and heating upgrades, installing solar panels, replacing old energy hungry equipment and switching to electric vehicles.

The loan is only available to businesses who have had a free business decarbonisation assessment.

Tandridge Business Awards winners announced

Published 10 October 2024

Events and awards

The winners of the inaugural Tandridge Business Awards have been announced at a glittering award ceremony at Lingfield Park Resort.

Launched in May 2024, the awards attracted over 120 entries showcasing the districtโ€™s businesses.ย The winners were drawn from an impressive array of high calibre entries with finalists announced in September.

The ceremony was compered by Sir Richard Stilgoe, founder of the Orpheus Centre in Godstone, a charity and college where young disabled people use the arts to prepare for independent living.

Business Surrey sponsored the event, along with a host of local organisations, including Ann Summers, East Surrey College, LoveOxted and Surrey Chambers of Commerce.

A spokesman for Tandridge District Council said: “Our first Tandridge Business Awards received an incredible response, with over 120 applications showcasing the best of our districtโ€™s businesses.
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“Well done to everyone who entered. The quality of applications was exceptionally high and our independent judges had a difficult task to select the winners.”

High Street Business of the Year

Business Surrey was proud to sponsor the High Street Business of the Year Award.

With Tandridge home to a several thriving towns and villages – such as Oxted, Caterham and Godstone – there were some strong entries to judge.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) joined the Business Surrey team in judging the award.

The three shortlisted businesses were:

The winner was The Lost Sheep, an independent gift and tea shop in Caterham.

Writing on her website, owner Sally said: “For many years I have wanted to open a tea shop and gift shop which serves the local community. When we finally opened the shop in November 2019 it was the start of a dream being fulfilled. I wouldn’t have made it this far without the support from my family and friends.”

Winners of the Tandridge Business Awards

The other winners of the 2024 Tandridge Business Awards are:

For a full list of shortlisted businesses visit the Tandridge Business Awards web page.

Four people - two men and two women - in formal evening dress pose for a picture in front of promotional banners for the Tandridge Business Awards.
Two women in formal evening wear pose for a picture while sat down at a round table. They are sat in an awards ceremony.
A man in a black suit stands up next to a round table, which is full of people in evening wear. They are at an awards ceremony.