Category: Skills and workforce

Business blog – Shaping our future workforce: how employers can inspire the next generation

Published 11 September 2025

Skills and workforce, Thought leadership

In our latest Business Surrey blog,ย Georgia Edwards, Surrey Careers Hub’s Enterprise Coordinator for South West Surrey, explains how employers play a vital role in shaping the future workforce, and the various ways in which your business can get involved.

By opening your doors to students and educators, you can help bridge the gap between education and employment, inspire young people, and build a stronger local talent pipeline. Through modern work experience initiatives including Open Doors and curriculum enriching programmes like Teacher Encounters, Surrey Careers Hub is making it easier than ever for businesses to engage with their future workforce.

Why Employer Engagement Matters

Workplace experiences are transformative for young people. They help students understand how their studies connect to real-world careers, build motivation, and make informed decisions about their future. For employers, these engagements offer a chance to:

  • Showcase your sector and career pathways
  • Build relationships with local schools and colleges
  • Contribute to the development of future talent
  • Influence curriculum relevance.

Open Doors: supporting experiences of the workplace

The Open Doors programme invites employers to host in-person visits for students, offering them a first-hand look at your workplace. These visits typically include:

  • Site tours and demonstrations of emerging technologies
  • Q&A sessions with employees to highlight diverse roles and skills
  • Practical activities or challenges
  • Insights into early careers pathways, including apprenticeships and T Levels
  • Opportunities for feedback and reflection.

These experiences align with Gatsby Benchmark 6, which focuses on meaningful workplace encounters. Employers receive support to tailor visits to student needs, including accessibility considerations and safeguarding guidance.

Download the Open Doors Employer Toolkit for more information and to get started.

Teacher Encounters: empowering educators to inspire

The Teacher Encounters programme connects educators with local employers, helping them understand how their subjects apply in the workplace. Teachers gain insight into:

  • Skills and qualifications valued by employers
  • Local businesses and labour market trends
  • Recruitment processes and vocational routes
  • Career pathways linked to their curriculum.

These encounters have proven highly impactful. According to the 2025 Impact Report:

  • 100% of employers provided greater visibility and understanding of their business as a potential employment destination
  • 86% of teachers understand the full range of job roles and careers in the current labour market that are linked to their subject
  • 100% of employers recognise the value of engaging with schools and colleges and would participate in the programme again

Read more about the 2025 programme here, and read the 2025 Impact Report here.

How you can get involved

Whether you’re new to employer engagement or looking to expand your outreach, Surrey Careers Hub offers practical support and resources. Hereโ€™s how you can start:

Letโ€™s Shape the Future Workforce Together

By participating in these programmes, youโ€™re not just offering a visit, youโ€™re opening minds, broadening horizons, building futures, and strengthening your community. Join us in making a lasting impact.

If youโ€™d like to explore any of these collaboration opportunities with a local school, college, SEND or alternative provision, get in touch today – contact Surrey Careers Hub: careers.hub@surreycc.gov.uk.

Surrey Space Institute launches to boost growing sector

Published 15 August 2025

Innovation, Skills and workforce

The Surrey Space Institute is taking off at the University of Surrey in Guildford. Its mission? To train 10% of the UK’s future space workforce in a growing sector which contributes billions to the country’s economy every year.

With the UK’s ยฃ19 billion space economy surging, government and industry urgently need faster research, innovation and skilled talent. Yet more than half of space organisations report critical shortages.

This is the challenge now being tackled by the newly launched Surrey Space Institute at the University of Surrey.

The Institute will convert the University’s 45-year small satellite leadership into mission-ready solutions for climate, resilience and secure global connectivity. 

It will bring together the region’s wider reputation for innovation, bringing sector-strengths in cybersecurity, telecoms, legal and biosciences. The focus is helping the UK stay competitive in a global industry that is growing at pace.ย 

It aims to scale up small businesses. It will also train 10% of the UK’s future space workforce through postgraduate degrees, hands-on missions and professional courses.

About the Surrey Space Institute

The Institute will build on the legacy of the Surrey Space Centre, whereย Professor Sir Martin Sweetingย pioneered the design and manufacturing of small satellites.ย 

Sir Martin founded the highly influential Surrey Satellite Technology Ltdย (SSTL). This university spin-out helped reshape how satellites are built across the global space sector. It has since earned ยฃ1 billion in satellite exports for the UK.ย  ย 

The Surrey Space Institute has been developed under the leadership of renowned astrophysicist and Pro-Vice-Chancellorย Professor Bob Nichol.

It will build on the firm foundations that the university and wider region has in a range of sectors. This includes engineering, telecoms, cybersecurity, biosciences and law.

This interdisciplinary approach is at the heart of the new Institute’s mission โ€“ to rethink how space can support society, the economy and the planet.

It will focus on building new technologies. And on developing the policies, systems and skills needed to run full space missions that respond to real-world needs.

Professor Adam Amara will be the inaugural Director of the Surrey Space Institute while continuing in his role as Chief Scientist to the UK Space Agency.  

Benefits to Surrey and beyond

Space contributes ยฃ7.2 billion directly to the UK’s GDP. It supports more than 52,000 jobs, most of them highly skilled. And it continues to invest heavily in innovation, with ยฃ1 billion spent on research and development.ย 

A key focus for the Surrey Space Institute Institute will be to help the UK grow its ability to run full space missions โ€“ combining hardware, software, policy and operations to tackle problems such as water security, climate resilience and space sustainability.

The Institute will also support small space companies to scale up. It will also give more people the skills needed to work in this fast-moving sector, helping the UK stay competitive in a global industry that is growing at pace.ย 

Currently 52% of UK space organisations reporting critical skills shortages, especially in software, data analysis, artificial intelligence and systems engineering. So the Institute aims to train 10% of the UK’s future space workforce through postgraduate degrees, hands-on missions and professional courses.

The launch of the Institute is timely, aligning with the Government’s industrial strategy, which recognises the space sector’s role in economic growth and UK defence capabilities.

In 2021/22, the UK space sector generated ยฃ18.9 billion in income, up 8% on the previous year, outpacing both the global space sector and the wider UK economy.

Surrey Space Institute – reaction

Professor Adam Amara, Head of School of Mathematics and Physics, said:

“Space is no longer a frontier activity; it is already a critical national and international infrastructure underpinning everything from climate security to high-speed connectivity.

“By uniting Surrey’s 45-year leadership in small satellites with cutting-edge AI and cyber-resilience, the Surrey Space Institute will give the UK the decisive capability it needs to stay ahead in the global space race and to solve complex problems at home and around the world.”

Martin Sweeting, founder of SSTL, said:

“The launch of the Surrey Space Institute is an exciting new chapter that captures that same entrepreneurial spirit as when we started the Space Centre. But it also reflects a much bigger ambition โ€“ to shape how the UK delivers space-based solutions to the challenges we face here on Earth. That means training new kinds of experts, working across disciplines and building systems that are sustainable, inclusive and ready for global deployment.”

Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, said:

“The launch of the Surrey Space Institute represents exactly the kind of bold, forward-thinking approach we need to maintain the UK’s position as a leader in space. Surrey’s remarkable 45-year track record in small satellites, combined with its vision to tackle real-world challenges from climate resilience to space sustainability, demonstrates how academic excellence can drive both economic growth and societal benefit.

“As we work to deliver the Government’s space ambitions, partnerships like this โ€“ bringing together world-class research, industry expertise and skills development โ€“ are essential to ensuring the UK space sector continues to thrive and deliver for our economy, our security and our planet.”ย 

Image of a satellite in space orbiting the earth

Skills Bootcamps applications open for Surrey employers and training providers

Published 9 July 2025

Funding and grants, Skills and workforce

Skills Bootcamps applications are being invited from Surrey employers and training providers for 2025/26. Discover how these government-funded courses can upskill your team in a just a few weeks.

Are you a Surrey employer struggling to recruit? Does your team have skills gaps youโ€™d like to fill? Apply today for Skills Bootcamps funding to equip your business with the talent and know-how to thrive. 

Skills Bootcamps are free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks for anyone aged 19+ to enter employment, upskill or change career. 

We – as part of Surrey County Council – have received ยฃ3.1 million from the Department for Education to deliver courses across Surrey during 2025/26.ย 

Weโ€™re looking for innovative ideas from employers and training providers to design and deliver courses to equip our residents with the skills to grow our future economy. 

Think Skills Bootcamps may be a good fit to help you upskill your team or address your workforce needs? Get in touch to find out more by emailing skillsbootcamps@surreycc.gov.uk. 

A member of the team will then arrange a one-to-one discussion to talk through your challenges and objectives. 

Of if youโ€™re ready to apply, then scroll down to find out more about the process. 

Skills Bootcamps 2025/26 – who can apply 

Applications can be made by: 

  • independent training providers 
  • further education (FE) colleges 
  • employers 

As employers, you will possess the relevant intelligence to support a robust proposal. This includes demonstrating creative design and an understanding of local employersโ€™ needs.

Do you not have experience of skills training? You can partner with organisations that can evidence proven experience and strong local networks to design and deliver innovative courses shaped around the needs of jobseekers and employers. 

Contact the Business Surrey team to discuss this further.

Skills Bootcamps applications

We are now accepting Skills Bootcamps applications from interested parties under a competitive grant award process. They will form part of Wave 6 of the programme, completing by the end of March 2026. 

Applications will need to evidence demand, strategic fit and innovation, setting out: 

  • access to employment post training (preference to partnership bids with employers)
  • how you will meet demand in the local economy, using evidence such as Surrey Economic Growth Strategy and Labour Market Information 
  • who your target learners are 
  • your previous experience delivering employer-led training 
  • previous collaboration with local employers (Training providers only) 
  • how you will deliver the programme 

We actively encourage joint applications from training providers and employers. Make sure they clearly evidence how the course will fill open vacancies.

There is no closing date. We will asses applications on a rolling basis for suitability. But we do advise applicants to submit entries as soon as possible. This is so courses are delivered before the end of March 2026.ย 

Apply now by completing the application form on the Business Surrey website.

Not sure where to start? Looking for more guidance? Get in touch via skillsbootcamps@surreycc.gov.ukย 

Need extra support?

We know workforce and skills is a key priority for Surrey businesses. Thereโ€™s lots of way you can keep up-to-date with available opportunities.

Looking for more bespoke support? Search our comprehensive business support directory.

Or get in touch with the Business Surrey team direct via our business support form.

Three men talk to each other in a construction classroom. The man in a middle is wearing a high vis jacket with M.I.T. Skills on it

Surrey Careers Hub engages educators at Surrey FE Teaching & Learning Conference

Published 3 July 2025

Skills and workforce

The Surrey Careers Hub team were pleased to take part in Surrey FE’s second annual Teaching and Learning Conference at Nescot College on Tuesday 1 July.

The event brought together around 200 colleagues from the colleges in theย SurreyFEย group with the aim of collaborating, sharing best practice, and strengthening approaches to teaching and learning. As such, it provided a valuable platform for the Careers Hub team to engage with a broad spectrum of college staff, including teachers and senior leadership teams from across SurreyFE.

Julie Kapsalis, Principal and CEO of Nescot, welcomed attendees on the day, saying:
โ€œA warm welcome to everyone joining us today. Nescot is absolutely delighted to host the second SurreyFE Teaching and Learning Conference this year. Thank you to the teams from across the SurreyFE colleges including all the teaching and learning groups who have worked tirelessly to organise todayโ€™s event and to the many speakers and colleagues hosting sessions throughout the day. It’s going to be an incredible day of learning, networking and collaboration.” ย 

Delegates were able to network with peers to exchange ideas, share teaching resources, and explore the exhibitor stands in Nescotโ€™s Skills Park (including the Surrey Careers hub stand). Attendees were also welcomed on the day by two specialist greeters: Nescotโ€™s robots, Pepper and NesBot, and also had the opportunity to experience Nescot’s specialist AI and VR technology facilities in the Immersive Learning suite.ย ย 

Supporting Surrey’s workforce of tomorrow

Exhibiting at the conference provided an opportunity for the Surrey Careers Hub to showcase its initiatives and discuss how it can support educational institutions in enhancing career guidance for students to help them prepare for the world of work. By interacting with various staff members, the team was able to promote their work and explore potential collaborations that could benefit students as they become the workforce of tomorrow.

The Careers Hub’s support of the event demonstrates clearly the importance of the strategic partnership between Surrey County Council and SurreyFE. This partnership spans multiple programmes at Surrey County Council, highlighting the council’s commitment to supporting educational and career development initiatives across the region.

Find out more

More information about Surrey Careers Hub can be found on the Surrey County Council website.

For updates on other Surrey Careers Hub activity,ย please follow us on LinkedIn

L-R: Rosie Roberts, Georgina Angele and Nina Johal from Surrey Careers Hub

SurreyFE group covers the following colleges: Activate Learning, Brooklands Technical College, East Surrey College, Nescot college.

The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy revealed

Published 26 June 2025

Business news, Innovation, Skills and workforce

The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy has been revealed by government this week. It sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business.

The government says the UK’s Industrial Strategy provides long-term clarity and stability to grow the UK economy.

It will include targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow. Ministers also promise reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.

There’s a focus on eight key high-growth sectors. Some of these sectors – such as creative industries, digital and technologies, and professional and business services – are real sector strengths for Surrey.

Ministers say future funding will focus on driving growth in these high-growth sectors. Investment will also focus on funding for SMEs, upskilling the UK’s workforce and redeveloping strategic sites.

Not all of this funding will be immediately available to Surrey. Some will only be available to those areas with directly-elected mayors, such as West Midlands and Greater Manchester. Surrey is currently on the fast-track programme to devolution – but will not have an elected mayor until after local government reorganisation is completed.

The plan will have a direct impact on Surrey’s economy both now and in the future. It aligns closely with the priorities in the Surrey Economic Growth Strategy.

And we – as part of Surrey County Council – will work with government, businesses and partners to make sure Surrey makes the most of the opportunities – ensuring we meet the demands of our 110,000 businesses while ensuring no one is left behind.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

“This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britainโ€™s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

“In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in peopleโ€™s pockets as part of the plan for change.

“This is how we power Britainโ€™s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.”

What is the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy?

The Governmentโ€™s Industrial Strategy 2025 is also known as Invest 2035. It is a 10-year plan to
drive economic growth by supporting eight high-growth sectors.

The sectors – known as the IS-8 – are advanced manufacturing, clean energy, creative industries, defence, digital and technologies, financial services, life sciences, and professional and business services.

The Strategyโ€™s plan of action includes:

  • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs. Increasing British Business Bank financial capacity to ยฃ25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital. Additional ยฃ4bn for Industrial Strategy Sectors.
  • Upskilling the nation with an extra ยฃ1.2 billion each year for skills by 2028-29. Delivering more opportunities to learn and earn in our high-growth sectors including new short courses.
  • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators. 
  • Supporting 5,500 more SMEs to adopt new technology through the Made Smarter programme while centralising government support in one place through the Business Growth Service.
  • Boosting R&D spending to ยฃ22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8. Allocated more than ยฃ2bn for AI and ยฃ2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors.
  • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migration reforms and the new Global Talent Taskforce.
  • Slash electricity costs by up to 25% from 2027 for electricity-intensive manufacturers in our growth sectors and foundational industries.
  • Deepening economic and industrial collaboration with our partners, building on agreements with Japan, the US, India, and the EU.
  • Reducing planning timelines and cutting costs for developers, by hiring more planners, streamlining pre-application requirements and combining environmental obligations.
  • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.
  • Supporting the UKโ€™s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new ยฃ600m Strategic Sites Accelerator.

Industrial Strategy – sector focus

The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and thereโ€™s potential for faster growth. These are:

  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Clean Energy Industries
  • Creative Industries
  • Defence
  • Digital and Technologies
  • Financial Services
  • Life Sciences
  • Professional and Business Services

Each growth sector has a bespoke 10-year plan that will attract investment, enable growth and create high-quality, well-paid jobs.

Five sector plans have been published this week:

  • Advanced Manufacturing – up to ยฃ4.3 billion in funding, including up to ยฃ2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years. Aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35 million, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight.
  • Clean Energy Industries – Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035. Total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to ยฃ1 billion.
  • Creative Industries – Maximizing the value of our Creative Industries through a ยฃ380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts. This will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports.
  • Digital and Technologies – Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses. More than ยฃ2 billion allocated to drive the AI Action Plan. ยฃ187 million for training one million young people in tech skills. Targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies. 
  • Professional and Business Services – Ensuring our Professional and Business Services becomes the worldโ€™s most trusted adviser to global industry. Plan to revolutionise the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI. Also working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas.

How will the UK’s Industrial Strategy impact Surrey?

The industrial strategy provides a long-term vision for growing the UK economy.

There are clear connections and alignment with the Surrey Economic Growth Strategy 2025-2035, recently published by Surrey County Council.

Surrey has very strong local sector specialisms in some of the key high-growth sectors. This includes professional services, finance, creative and digital. We also have well-established clusters and innovation assets across most of the IS-8 sectors.

We also have demonstrated a commitment to unlocking local economic growth via:

However, Invest 2035 indicates funding will be targeted outside London and the South East – particularly areas which have elected mayors.

Surrey is currently on the government’s fast-track programme to create a directly-elected Mayoral Strategic Authority.

However, Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) needs to take place first. A consultation into how LGR will work for Surrey is currently ongoing.

Decorative image for the government's UK modern industrial strategy launch

Teacher Encounters with Surrey businesses

Published 25 June 2025

Skills and workforce

Teachers become students for the day visiting some of Surrey’s brightest and best businesses as part of broader efforts to inspire the region’s future workforce

As this academic year begins to draw to a close, a number of schools, special schools, and colleges across Surrey are taking part in Surrey Careers Hubโ€™s 2025 Teacher Encounters initiative.

This dynamic series of workplace visits is designed to connect educators with leading Surrey employers and has seen enthusiastic participation from teachers across a wide range of Surrey educational settings across the county, helping to bridge the gap between education and the world of work. (See full list of participating institutions below.)

These educators are taking up the opportunity to visit and engage with a diverse range of Surrey employers, including Wates Group, Royal Holloway University, CGI, Supermassive Games, Home Counties Carers, AtkinsRรฉalis, Yunex Traffic, ramsac, Macro and Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust.

What’s involved in a Teacher Encounter?

The visits offer valuable insights into the skills, knowledge, and attributes that employers are seeking in the future workforce. The programme helps educators to understand the wide range of career opportunities available and gain a deeper understanding of how their subject is applied practically in the workplace which they can take back to their classrooms to enrich their curriculum with real-world industry examples, while enabling them to build ongoing relationships with employers.

Following each Teacher Encounter, participating teachers will develop bespoke teaching resources that will translate newly acquired industry knowledge into practical classroom applications or resources to share with their teaching colleagues. The initiative aims to produce a diverse and inclusive suite of materials, tailored to a wide range of subjects and adaptable to the needs of students from all types of institutions.

Matt Furniss, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth at Surrey County Council, praised the initiative:

โ€œThe Teachers Encounters programme is a vital investment in the future of Surreyโ€™s economy. By equipping our teachers with up-to-date industry knowledge and meaningful employer connections, we empower them to better guide their students in making informed career choices. This initiative not only benefits our young people but also strengthens the talent pipeline for local businesses, ensuring Surrey remains a thriving hub of innovation and opportunity.โ€

Views from participants

Tim Browning, Recruitment Lead at Supermassive Games said:

โ€œThis programme is a fantastic way to bridge the gap between education and industry. Equipping teachers with industry knowledge is crucial for inspiring and preparing students for their future careers. We’re already looking forward to next year’s programme!”

While Ellie Smith, AtkinsRรฉalis Social Value Consultant shared:

โ€œThe Teacher Encounter programme highlights ncounters programme highlights the importance of collaboration between educators and industry professionals in shaping a skilled workforce and AtkinsRรฉalis is proud to have taken part.โ€

With a delighted teacher from East Surrey College adding:

โ€œIt was both enlightening and informative to hear about the company’s early careers programme. The insights and perspectives shared will undoubtedly be incredibly valuable for our students as they look to progress into their careers after completing their college studies.โ€

The programme is part of Surrey Careers Hubโ€™s ongoing commitment to enhancing careers education and ensuring that young people are well-prepared for the rapidly evolving world of work. By fostering stronger links between education and industry, the Careers Hub is helping to create a more informed, inspired, and future-ready generation.

Find out more

More information about the Teacher Encounters programme can be found on the Surrey County Council website: https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/business/careers-hub/employers/teacher-encounters.

Surrey employers who would like to get involved in the 2026 Teacher Encounters programme should contact careers.hub@surreycc.gov.uk.

For updates on the Teacher Encounters programme and other Surrey Careers Hub activity, please follow us on LinkedIn

Surrey Educational settings that participated in Teacher Encounters this year:

  • Ashcombe School
  • Brooklands College
  • Carrington School
  • Collingwood College
  • East Surrey College
  • Epsom College
  • Esher Sixth Form College
  • Fox Grove School
  • Freemantles School
  • George Abbot School
  • Godalming College
  • Guildford County School
  • Heathside School
  • Hoe Valley School
  • Nescot
  • Pond Meadow School
  • Reigate College
  • Rosebery School
  • St Pauls Catholic College
  • The Beacon School
  • Therfield School
  • Thomas Knyvett College
  • Warlingham School
  • Wishmore Cross Academy
  • Woking College
Teacher Encounters visit to Wates Group. (Main image: Supermassive Games visit)

Creative and Cultural Industries Leaders Network launched at Surrey’s UCA

Published 20 April 2025

Innovation, Skills and workforce

A Creative and Cultural Industries Leaders Network has been established in Surrey, driving global conversations on technological change in this crucial regional and national sector.

The UKโ€™s creative and cultural industries are worth ยฃ125 billion and trillions globally. It is a sector that is constantly evolving, with huge technological advances coming and fast.

But with the World Economic Forum employers anticipating 39% of workersโ€™ core skills will change by 2030, there’s a challenge how industry leaders will adapt to change.

The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) is tackling these questions head on, starting by bringing together industry leaders. The inaugural meeting of the Creative and Cultural Industries Leaders Network took place at its Farnham campus last week.

Organisations attending the launch included Warner Bros, British Film Institute, Adobe, ITN and Appleโ€™s Media Arts Lab.

About the Creative and Cultural Industries Leaders Network

Challenges for leadership was the focus of the first session, taking place at UCA’s bespoke Creative Business School.

Professor Lyndsay Duthie, UCAโ€™s Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic Partnerships & Industry Engagement, explained:

โ€œThe creative and cultural industries are full of opportunity, but being part of the narrative is vital to thrive in these changing times. We need to think globally to maximise potential and collaborate across disciplines. UCA has developed this Network with senior industry leaders to share ideas and shape its future.โ€

Speakers included:

  • Samantha Perahia, Head of Production from British Film Commission,
  • Sara Whybrew Director of Skills at British Film Institute,
  • Stephen Hancock, Executive Director, Appleโ€™s Media Arts Lab
  • award-winning TEDx speaker, Andy Coley

All acknowledged the importance of talent pipelines, resilience and leadership.

Other representatives taking part in discussions on leading for the future, considering AI, ethics and cultural power, included:

  • Kim Rowell, Managing Editor, ITN and Vice Chair of Royal Television Society Technology Centre,
  • Emma Thwaites from The Open Data Institute
  • Chris Wheeler from Warner Bros.
  • Niels Stevens Adobe

UCAโ€™s President & Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jane Roscoe, reiterated:

โ€œUCA is in a great position to facilitate the important discussions we must now have to future-proof our sector. The event confirmed that we can play a leading role supporting, steering and equipping the creative and cultural leaders for the challenges today and tomorrow.โ€

If youโ€™d like to join UCAโ€™s Creative and Cultural Industries Leaders Network please email Helen Witt.

Surrey and the Creative Industries

Surreyโ€™s creative industries cluster is a vibrant and dynamic sector. It comprises a diverse array of businesses, educational institutions, and collaborative networks.

It has more than 10,000 digital startups, film and TV studios, artistic producers, and entertainment companies employing 45,000 people.

There is a range of support available for freelancers, startups and businesses in the creative industries. Contact us to find out more.

Image credit: UCA

Surrey Careers Hub hosts successful Transitions Fair for Surrey young people with additional needs and disabilities

Published 14 March 2025

Skills and workforce

Over 200 young people attended Surrey Careers Hubโ€™s successful Transitions Fair at Surrey County Councilโ€™s Woodhatch Place, Reigate, as part of National Careers Week (Friday, March 7, 2025).

This event was specifically created to enable young people being educated in specialist schools and alternative provision to understand the options available for their transition from education to employment, further education, training or social settings.

The Fair saw enthusiastic participation from 12 Surrey schools, bringing together over 200 students.

The event was supported by over 20 exhibitors, including colleges and educators, employers, employment support organisations, apprenticeship providers and social settings, all dedicated to offering valuable guidance and information to the young people in attendance.

Bringing careers to life

The Careers Hub also partnered with Macro staff employed on the councilโ€™s facilities management contract to showcase to students the people and the jobs that keep Woodhatch Place a safe, welcoming and accessible working environment.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport, and Economic Growth, attended the event to meet with students and exhibitors. He shared his positive reflections:

 “The Transitions Fair is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that every young person in Surrey, regardless of their educational needs, has access to the resources and support they need to succeed, with no one left behind. It was inspiring to see so many young people engaging with the exhibitors and exploring the range of options for their future.”

Clare Curran, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning said: โ€œThis Transitions Fair, and the work of the Surrey Careers Hub in general, is so important in helping to ensure Surrey children and young people with additional needs and disabilities are informed about the range of opportunities available for them as they head towards adulthood. Iโ€™m sure those attending left feeling inspired about their futures.โ€ 

A teacher who attended said: โ€œThe fair was well organised, quieter and catered well to the needs of our students. The short film [about Macro staff] was brilliant and extremely engaging. All my students loved it and felt a sense of empowerment that they too can go and work for Surrey County Council in all different departments.โ€

Students were highly engaged and appreciated the opportunity to meet exhibitors. One commented: โ€œOrpheus has amazing music program, flats on campus and help with getting houses once you’ve left. Sounds amazing.โ€

While another said:โ€œI loved talking to the ‘Project Radio’ people and this is something where I can see myself going.โ€

About Surrey Careers Hub

The Surrey Careers Hub plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between education and employment, ensuring that all young people, including those with additional needs and disabilities, have the opportunity to find their best next step. The Careers Hub ethos is that every young person deserves the best possible start to their adult life: to choose their own path and fulfil their potential.

A group of students speak to exhibitors at the Fair

The Careers Hub sits within Surrey County Councilโ€™s Economy and Growth Team. In partnership with The Careers and Enterprise Company, the Careers Hub works with Careers Leaders, educators, employers and training providers to inspire and prepare young people in education with modern, 21st century careers education.

Exhibitors in attendance:

Surrey County Council launches workforce wellbeing programme to boost business performance

Published 12 March 2025

Advice and support, Skills and workforce

Businesses today face increasing pressure to balance operational demands while supporting their employees, and maintaining a competitive edge. ย 

While employee wellbeing often falls down the list of priorities, research shows that organisations which prioritise employee wellbeing experience a number of business benefits including:  

  • Fewer absences and greater productivity
  • Improved employee satisfaction and morale
  • Enhanced recruitment and retention

To help businesses improve mental heath and wellbeing across their teams, Surrey County Council has launched the Workforce Wellbeing programme. This is a free initiative aimed at Surrey businesses with 10 or more employees, and provides a clear path to improving workplace wellbeing and create healthier, more engaged workplaces (without increasing anyoneโ€™s workload).

Empowering businesses with tailored support

The Workforce Wellbeing Programme is designed to tackle the daily hurdles businesses encounter, from tight deadlines to workplace stress. By offering customised support, practical tools, and evidence-based strategies, this programme empowers organisations to improve employee engagement and build a workplace culture based on trust and wellbeing.

A comprehensive framework for success

The programme is built around six key pillars, providing businesses with a clear roadmap to improve workplace wellbeing. Through this initiative, organisations can access a wealth of free resources that make a tangible difference, including:

  • Customised Solutions: Tailored to meet each organisationโ€™s unique needs.
  • Self-Assessment Tools: Identify key areas for improvement.
  • Engagement Materials: Inspire and involve employees in wellbeing initiatives.
  • Expert-Led Training: Training sessions provided by Surrey County Council experts.
  • Research-Backed Strategies: Practical strategies supported by evidence.
  • Collaborative Network: Join a supportive community of businesses prioritising workforce health.

The programme is flexible and accessible and designed to integrate into organisations of all sizes, from ten employees to several hundred or more.

Invitation to Surrey businesses

Surrey County Council invites organisations with 10 or more employees to take part in this free support programme. Whether youโ€™re beginning your wellbeing journey or seeking to build on existing initiatives, this programme provides the tools, expertise, and community needed to succeed.

For more information and to register your organisation, visit the Surrey County Council Workforce Wellbeing page.

Looking for further support?

Use theย Contact Us form on the Business Surrey website.

Skills Bootcamps careers – upskilling Surrey

Published 5 March 2025

Skills and workforce, Surrey Success Stories

A passion for change

After nine years in retail, Claudia was driven by a passion to change how excess and unwanted products were managed within her organisation. This led her to enrol in a Sustainability Skills Bootcamp, eager to dive into Life Cycle Assessment and waste management for a more sustainable future.

She saw an Instagram ad from Surrey County Council. This perfectly aligned with her sustainability interests and sparked her decision to enrol.

The Skills Bootcamp journey: learning and thriving

The Skills Bootcamp journey allowed Claudia to juggle full-time work and study with the support of the training providers at Activate Learning.

โ€œThe instructors were fantastic, making complex topics accessible and engaging.โ€

Practical exercises were the star of the show. These enabled real-world application straight back into the workplace. Learning about the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) was incredibly rewarding.

Career transformation and bright prospects

Completing the Skills Bootcamp was a game-changer. Claudiaโ€™s new skills and knowledge impressed at interview, leading to a role in a new company with an active approach to sustainability.

A brighter, sustainable future

The Skills Bootcamp has empowered Claudia with the expertise to make a significant impact in her career. She is now equipped to champion sustainable practices in her industry. This case study showcases the incredible potential of practical, targeted education in driving real-world change.

“I highly recommend the Surrey County Council Skills Bootcamp in Sustainability.

This well-structured course provides a great balance of theory and practical application – making it easy to integrate sustainability principles into both personal and professional settings.

The course offers valuable insight into the vast field of sustainability, helping you identify areas you may want to specialise in.

For me, it was a fantastic addition to my skillset, and it played a key role in helping me secure a new job with a company that has sustainability at its core.

This course truly allows you to demonstrate your commitment to this field – it is a great stepping stone for anyone looking to make a real impact!”

Fast-track learning for businesses

We offer Skills Bootcamps in sectors that are crucial to Surrey’s future economy.

Therefore, they can also be used by local businesses to upskill current employees at a discounted rate.

Large employers will need to contribute 30% of the cost. Small or medium employers (SMEs) will contribute 10%.

There is no cost to a business recruiting someone who has recently completed a Skills Bootcamp.

To find out more about the courses on offer, delivered through out training providers, visit the Skills Bootcamps website.

Please note that funding for the current round of courses runs until the end of March 2025. Therefore, some courses may now be unavailable or have reached capacity.

Support for Surrey businesses

Not quite the right fit for your business? Speak to our team of experts who can provide tailored advice to help your business grow and succeed. Get in touch to find out more via our business support form.

You can also register to receive our newsletter, packed with the latest information on events, funding and more, for all Surrey businesses.