Category: Skills and workforce

Adult Skills Fund and Skills Bootcamps create more than 21,000 opportunities for Surrey residents

Published 28 October 2026

Skills and workforce

Surrey residents can now access more than 21,000 training opportunities through locally commissioned Adult Skills Fund (ASF) and Skills Bootcamps programmes, helping people gain the skills they need to start, progress or change careers.

Backed by £11.2 million through the newly-devolved Adult Skills Fund, around £1.15m for Free Courses for Jobs provision, and a further £2.2 million for Skills Bootcamps, the programmes are designed to support residents into sustainable employment while helping employers address skills shortages in key sectors.

Funded courses to build skills in key sectors

The Adult Skills Fund and Free Courses for Jobs underpin a wide range of funded courses to help adults improve their English, maths and digital skills, gain sector-specific qualifications, and build confidence to enter or progress in work. Courses for this academic year are being delivered by 26 training providers and colleges, covering key skills such as Health and Social Care, Construction, Digital skills, Engineering, STEM and Employability skills.

Alongside this, Surrey residents can choose from Skills Bootcamps delivered by 14 training providers, offering free, flexible training of up to 16 weeks in growth sectors including Health and Social Care, Construction, Green skills, Digital and AI, and Project Management. Many Bootcamps even include a guaranteed interview with a local employer on completion.

Councillor Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “We want every Surrey resident to have the opportunity to develop the skills they need to succeed in work, and benefit from the opportunities available across our regional economy.
“Through the Adult Skills Fund and Skills Bootcamps, we are making it easier for people to access high-quality training that leads to real employment outcomes.
“With more than 21,000 opportunities available, and investment of over £13 million in skills provision, this represents a significant step forward in ensuring residents, employers and our local economy can all thrive together, with no one left behind.”

The Adult Skills Fund is available to eligible Surrey residents aged 19 and over and supports learning through flexible courses delivered in person, online and through blended learning.

Skills Bootcamps are also available to eligible Surrey residents aged 19 and over, providing fast-track training in sectors with strong employer demand and opportunities for career progression.

Courses are available from Sept 2026 to the end of March 2027. Residents can explore the range of courses currently available and register directly with providers via the STEP Surrey website here: Adult Skills Fund and Skills Bootcamps.

Leading UK economist to chart a bold vision for Surrey’s future through new Surrey Economic Commission

Published 13 October 2026

Business news, Innovation, Skills and workforce

One of Britain’s most respected economists Andy Haldane will chair a new Surrey Economic Commission to define a bold vision for the future of one of the UK’s leading economies.

With devolution on the horizon, Surrey County Council is engaging the former Chief Economist of the Bank of England to lead an independent review into how Surrey can make the most of future opportunities to drive growth.

The Commission will bring together nationally recognised experts and thought leaders from across business, education, infrastructure, health and the public sector to help shape Surrey’s next chapter of economic success pairing high-level expert roundtables with public engagement and balancing specialised knowledge with vital citizen voices.

By March, it will have developed a series of action-focused recommendations that build on Surrey’s economic strengths, position the county to compete nationally and internationally, and reshape how growth is planned, enabled and delivered.

Alongside this forward-looking work, Royal Holloway, University of London will undertake an independent Socio-Economic Impact Report, providing a comprehensive assessment of Surrey’s economic and social progress in the last six years and helping identify opportunities to deliver further impact.

Together, they will provide both the evidence and ambition needed to shape Surrey’s next chapter, helping the county build on its considerable strengths, unlock new opportunities and reinforce its position as one of the UK’s economic powerhouses.

New Surrey Economic Commission – reaction

Andy Haldane, Chair of the Surrey Economic Commission, said:

“With 1.2 million residents, an economy that generates more than £50 billion every year, a talented workforce and fantastic connections to the capital and beyond, Surrey is already a cornerstone of the UK economy.

“But there is so much more that can be done, especially as the government looks to transfer powers, responsibility and funding out of Whitehall and into local hands.

“As a long-time resident of Surrey, I have a vested interest in seeing the county succeed – which is why I’m determined to deliver a bold, ambitious and inclusive blueprint which has the collective buy-in of local stakeholders, business leaders and the broader community.”

Tim Oliver OBE, Leader of Surrey County Council, said:

“Over recent years we have taken big strides to kickstart growth in Surrey, ensuring our economy delivers real benefits to our people, places and employers.

“It’s been a collective effort, built on successful partnerships across business, education, local government and our communities. 

“With devolution on the horizon, what comes next is crucial – and I can think of no one better to shape a bold vision for Surrey’s economic future than Andy, who brings vast experience, expertise and energy to the role.

“I am delighted he will lead on this vital piece of work which has the potential to positively impact every person, place and business across the county.”

Professor Ruth Livesey, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation) at Royal Holloway, University of London, said:

“Capitalising on the many opportunities we have here in Surrey relies on clear understanding of what has been achieved in the last six years, which our Impact Report will evidence.

“More than that, our expertise at Royal Holloway will bring a truly future-facing perspective to what this progress can mean for the region going forwards not least for our students, partners and wider communities.”

Mr Haldane is a former chief economist of the Bank of England. He will combine the Surrey Economic Commission role with his existing responsibilities as President of the British Chambers of Commerce and Chancellor of the University of Sheffield.

The Economic Commission will build on a previous review undertaken by former Chancellor Philip Hammond in 2020.

This helped establish a shared vision for economic growth and informed the Surrey Economic Growth Strategy. Alongside this is a programme of activity delivered through strong collaboration between local authorities, businesses, education providers and wider partners.

Six years on, Surrey’s economy, institutions and operating environment have changed significantly.

In 2024, responsibility for Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) functions transferred to Surrey County Council. This ensured economic delivery across a single Surrey footprint for the first time. It also strengthened the role of local government in leading economic strategy, convening partners and driving inclusive growth.

The move has been hugely beneficial, leveraging in more than £31 million of funding annually. It also unlocks the ability for more targeted economic interventions to address specific needs and opportunities.

Further change is coming as Surrey enters a period of significant public sector reform with Local Government Reorganisation and preparing for the new powers, new partnerships and new governance arrangements that may accompany devolution.

McLaren Automotive to invest £500m to anchor its future in the UK

Published 16 September 2026

Business news, Innovation, Skills and workforce

McLaren Automotive is investing £500 million to expand its UK manufacturing, engineering and operations. It will enable the Woking-based firm to accelerate the development of its next generation of models while bringing jobs and further benefits to Surrey’s economy.

The investment reinforces McLaren’s commitment to Surrey and Britain – where Bruce McLaren founded the company in 1963 and where it produced the legendary McLaren F1, its first supercar.

The programme will create at least 1,000 new direct and indirect jobs across McLaren’s UK operations by 2032, while safeguarding existing roles.

Up to 3,000 additional jobs are expected to be created across supply chain. This will bolster the British automotive sector and boost exports.

The investment strengthens McLaren Automotive’s expertise in lightweighting, carbon fibre and advanced manufacturing, while securing critical intellectual property and production capabilities in the UK.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for highways, transport and economic growth, said: “For decades McLaren has played a significant role in Surrey’s economy, providing training and employment for thousands of people and bringing millions of pounds of investment and trade into the county every year.

“We warmly welcome today’s announcement which reinforces Surrey’s position as a leader for innovation. This significant investment will support many of our economic strengths, including our automotive, engineering and creative sectors.

“We look forward to continue working with the team at Woking directly to ensure this new investment delivers benefits to our people, places and employers, through direct employment, skills training for young people and broader supply chains.”

Expanding McLaren Automotive in the UK

The investment will enable McLaren Automotive to expand its production capability. It will increase vehicle output to ensure the next generation of McLaren Automotive cars are built in Britain. This includes a newly confirmed performance SUV. This will be made possible by a new vehicle assembly facility planned in the UK.

It will see McLaren Automotive’s manufacturing workforce is set to double in the UK, supported by new apprenticeships to develop the next generation of talent.

For the first time in its history, McLaren Automotive’s future powertrains will be designed and built in-house, starting with two new engines and transmissions. This will support the company’s hybrid engine strategy, building on McLaren Automotive’s pioneering use of hybrid technology.

McLaren Automotive is also expanding operations at the McLaren Production Centre in Woking.

The company has recently opened two new UK sites – a design and innovation centre at the McLaren Creation Centre in Bicester, and a testing and vehicle development facility in the Midlands.

Together with its Woking headquarters and carbon-fibre facility in South Yorkshire, they form an integrated UK operation, from design through to advanced manufacturing.

McLaren Automotive investment – reaction

Nick Collins, Chief Executive Officer of McLaren Group Holdings and McLaren Automotive said: “This investment gives us the platform to grow, develop and build on what makes us distinctive, while investing in the people, technologies and products that will keep us competitive for decades to come.”

Andy Burnham, UK Prime Minister said: “McLaren Automotive is doubling down on Britain, keeping the design, the engineering and the building of every future car here, and taking on a thousand more people to do it. Their investment will create high-quality apprenticeships, jobs and drive growth far beyond their factory gates. It is how you get skilled work, decent wages and pride back into a place.

“It’s this kind of partnership between government and business that will help us reindustrialise communities and make every part of Britain better off. I want young people to see that and know there is a future for them in making things, wherever they grew up.“

A skilled worker assembles a McLaren supercar at the line in Woking, Surrey
Image of the outside of the McLaren HQ building in Woking, Surrey

A smarter way to invest in your future workforce

Published 9 September 2026

Skills and workforce

Finding and developing talent remains a challenge for many organisations. One of the most effective ways to influence the future workforce is to engage with the people who will become it.

Surrey Careers Hub, part of Surrey County Council’s Economy and Growth Team, supports 96 secondary schools and colleges to deliver high-quality careers programmes. By connecting employers with education, the Careers Hub helps young people understand the world of work while enabling businesses to build stronger talent pipelines and increase awareness of their sectors and opportunities.

The Careers Hub is expanding its Business Volunteer network and is looking for organisations and professionals who want to invest in Surrey’s future workforce while delivering real benefits to their own business.

Why get involved?

Working with schools and colleges gives your business the opportunity to:

  • Raise the profile of your organisation and early careers opportunities
  • Build awareness of careers within your sector
  • Develop staff through mentoring, coaching and leadership opportunities
  • Influence the skills and knowledge young people develop before entering employment
  • Strengthen future talent pipelines for your organisation
  • Demonstrate your commitment to social value and community impact.

Research consistently shows that employers who engage with education are more likely to report benefits such as improved recruitment pipelines, increased staff engagement and stronger links with their local communities.

“Offering work experience is a key part of how we recruit and helps our team grow by developing their coaching skills. We create flexible opportunities, which fit around our business. At the end of each placement, students share what they’ve learned, and that’s when we know we’re making a difference.”
Davinder Lotay, Owner & Managing Director, Altimex Ltd

Flexible ways to support

Whether you can only spare an hour a term, or are looking to build a longer-term partnership, there are opportunities to suit organisations of all sizes.

Light-touch support

Potential light-touch activities include:

  • Careers fairs
  • Speed networking events
  • Mock interviews
  • Guest speaking opportunities

These sessions provide valuable insights into your industry while helping raise awareness of your organisation among future employees.

Strategic partnerships

Businesses that have the appetite to get more involved can also provide more in-depth support by sharing specialist knowledge, delivering workshops, supporting projects, and helping education leaders understand industry needs and emerging skills requirements.

“At KPMG, we’ve seen first-hand how these experiences broaden horizons and help young people connect their strengths to real opportunities. But this only works when businesses collaborate. By opening our doors wider and involving a range of organisations, we can offer young people a clearer picture of what’s possible and, in doing so, strengthen the future workforce.”
Cath Burnet, Head of Audit, KPMG UK

Supporting meaningful work experience

Work experience is evolving. With the Government’s ambition for every young person to complete 10 days of meaningful work experience during secondary education, employers have an increasingly important role to play, and more opportunity to do so than ever before.

Opportunities can range from short workplace visits and employer encounters lasting just one or two hours through to multi-day work experience placements that give young people hands-on exposure to your industry.

These experiences help students build confidence and employability skills while allowing employers to showcase career pathways and engage with future talent at an early stage.

“In the world of hybrid working, the traditional five-day work experience is ever challenging to achieve. Our approach offers experiences of the workplace of different lengths and venues for maximum flexibility and scale.”
Ian Browne, Early Careers Leader, Lloyds Banking Group

Join the Business Volunteer network

Whether your goal is attracting future talent, developing your workforce, increasing your organisation’s visibility or giving back to your local community, Surrey Careers Hub can help you find an approach that works for your business.

To get involved, please complete the Business Volunteer form. A member of the Surrey Careers Hub team will then contact you to discuss suitable opportunities and available support.

Still have questions?

Just send an email to careers.hub@surreycc.gov.uk and one of the team will get back to you quickly with answers.

A group of students wear high vis jackets on their visit to Thorpe Park as part of their work experience. | Surrey Careers Hub | Business Surrey | Future workforce development

Gatwick Airport’s second runway set for lift off after Court of Appeal ruling

Published 5 August 2026

Business news, Skills and workforce

Work on Gatwick Airport’s second runway will soon begin. It comes as the Court of Appeal rejected campaigners’ appeal against the decision to expand the UK’s second biggest airport.

Airport leaders claim the Northern Runway project will deliver significant business, tourism and trade benefits for the UK, including 14,000 new jobs and a £1 billion boost to the economy every year.

Plans for Gatwick Airport’s second runway were initially approved by government ministers last year.

They include moving the northern runway (currently used as a standby) 12 metres. This would allow the UK’s second busiest airport to have a second fully functioning runway.

But two local campaign groups took the decision to the Court of Appeal, claiming the climate impact was not properly assessed.

This week (4 August, 2026) the Court of Appeal dismissed the case giving Gatwick the green light to start work.

Gatwick reaction

Pierre-Hugues Schmit, Chief Executive of London Gatwick, said: “The Court of Appeal decision to comprehensively reject the legal challenges brought by the two campaign groups opposing London Gatwick’s Northern Runway Project, confirms, yet again, that the September 2025 decision by the Secretary of State for Transport to approve the Northern Runway Project was taken properly and lawfully.

“We are also very pleased that this ruling, from senior Court of Appeal Judges, brings to an end an eight-year planning and legal process which has carefully tested and scrutinised every aspect of our expansion plans on multiple occasions.

“This final ruling means that we can now press on with the important job of bringing this exciting project to life and move forward into the design and delivery phase.

“We would like to thank everyone who has supported our planning application through the various stages and will announce further details in due course.”

About the Gatwick Airport second runway plans

London Gatwick says bringing the Northern Runway into routine use is “one of the biggest growth opportunities for the UK today”.

The £2.2 billion project is privately financed and could serve up to 80 million passengers a year. And those at the airport claim it will drive growth. They claim it will inject an additional £1 billion into the UK economy every year, creating 14,000 jobs.

It also includes a comprehensive education, skills and business strategy. This will bring maximum benefits to local people and the Gatwick region.

Plans for bringing the northern runway into use were first consulted on in 2021.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced in February 2025 she was “minded to grant” the proposal, providing key considerations were met.

Construction summer school builds interest in future careers with Surrey students

Published 20 July 2026

Business news, Skills and workforce

Surrey students became property developers and construction workers for the week at a construction summer school. The hands-on work experience course for Year 10 students has been created by Wates hosted with Nescot in Epsom and part-funded by Surrey County Council.

Students from six schools across Surrey took part in the innovative event. The students, aged 14 and 15, spent a week exploring careers in construction and property.

They created plans for a housing development and presenting their ideas to industry professionals. They also experienced a current Wates Residential construction site using Nescot’s immersive virtual reality pod.

Plus they tried operating heavy machinery using advanced construction simulators, practiced carpentry skills building timber structures and developed teamwork and problem solving at an outdoor activity centre.

The scheme was run by development, building and property maintenance company Wates Group. It was part funded by Surrey County Council. Delivery partners include Nescot, Neilcott Construction, community interest company LMP Action and social enterprise Serious about Youth.

About the construction summer school

The programme saw employers, education, community organisations and local government working together to offer modern work experience to the next generation of local workforce.

Almost 40 students took part in an exciting, interactive week. There was the chance to try new things, step outside their comfort zones and build confidence.

They left with a better understanding of how their strengths and interests could translate into future roles. It also opened their eyes to careers they may not have previously considered.

The programme has been running since 2017. It supports students interested in apprenticeships and vocational courses beyond their GCSEs, rather than A levels.

By offering exposure to college life, varied career options and positive role models, it encourages, inspires, and broadens students’ horizons.

The impact of the course can be significant. Following last year’s programme, 90% of participants reported a stronger understanding of career opportunities in construction. Plus 85% said the industry sounded exciting and 72% felt their employability skills had improved.

Construction summer school – reaction

A summer school student said: “I was nervous on Monday but I’ve realised I can make friends…coming here has made me feel I’ve still got it.”

Julie Kapsalis, CEO and Principal at Nescot, said: “This scheme is incredible, bringing together industry experts and our state-of-the-art learning facilities to inspire young people who are often right at the beginning of thinking about a potential career. The programme has given them a glimpse at everything from property development and project management to construction work, architecture and engineering. I’m proud of what they achieved, and I hope they will go forward with new confidence as they consider their options for the future.”

Su Pickerill, Head of Social Value at Wates Group, said: “The summer programme is a great example of how we aim to be brilliant locally, working alongside our communities to create opportunities that truly make a difference. It’s been inspiring to see young people step beyond their comfort zones, and I hope this experience has helped unlock their potential.”

Helping young people across Surrey

The partnership working between Wates and Nescot is supported by Surrey County Council as part of a wider project to help young people into work.

Other programmes include Experience Days. These invite young people into the college for a day to provide meaningful experiences of college life and curriculum areas. They understand their options, feel supported, and become confident about coming to a college after their GCSEs.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “This investment highlights the opportunities available in one of Surrey’s growing sectors and demonstrates Surrey’s commitment to innovative pathways into further education and employment. By working in partnership with employers, training providers and colleges, we can help more young people develop the skills they need, support business growth, and create positive outcomes for Surrey’s economy while ensuring no one is left behind.”

Neilcott Construction supported the practical element of the programme. This includes arranging skilled carpenters to guide students through reading drawings, using tools safely and constructing the timber towers.

Nescot offers courses on a range of construction trades including highways maintenance, brickwork, carpentry and joinery, plastering, plumbing and electrical installation.

It also offers a wide range of other courses for school leavers and adults. This includes motor vehicles, animal care, hair and beauty, computing and IT, performing arts, childcare and health and social care.

Discover more about studying at Nescot by calling 020 8394 3038, visiting www.nescot.ac.uk or emailing adviceteam@nescot.ac.uk.

Interested in working with training providers to boost Surrey’s future workforce? Get in touch via our Contact Us form.

A man in a black suit stands talking to young people wearing high vis at a further education college in Surrey

Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan 2026-2029 launched

Published 16 July 2026

Business news, Skills and workforce

Surrey’s new employer-led Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for 2026-2029 is now live. It sets out how local training equips people with skills needed by local employers.

The Surrey LSIP has been developed by Surrey Chambers of Commerce, with support from Surrey County Council and employers across the county.

It is one of 39 Local Skills Improvement Plans created across the country to ensure local training equips people with skills needed by local employers.

The aim of the updated employer-led strategy is to address the county’s key skills challenges and support long-term economic growth.

Download the Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan.

What is the Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan?

Surrey first developed a Local Skills Improvement Plan in 2023. The updated LSIP provides detailed insight and analysis into what priority economic sectors and jobs are for each given area.

It’s been developed through extensive employer engagement, research and stakeholder consultation. The LSIP also identifies the skills priorities that matter most to local businesses and outlines practical actions to help build a workforce equipped for the future.

The Surrey LSIP focuses on six priority areas that reflect the county’s current and future workforce needs. These include:

  • manufacturing and engineering
  • construction and the green economy
  • health and social care
  • digital technologies
  • employability skills
  • employer engagement

Together, these priorities will help ensure education and training provision remains aligned with the needs of employers. It also supports inclusive economic growth across Surrey.

The plan highlights several challenges facing the county, including skills shortages, recruitment difficulties, workforce retention and changing technological demands.

It also recognises Surrey’s strengths, including its position as a leading UK hub for Artificial Intelligence, and the opportunities this presents for businesses and learners.

What will

The launch of the LSIP marks the beginning of the delivery phase, with a range of employer-led initiatives planned over the next three years. These include:

  • encouraging more women into engineering through targeted role model programmes
  • strengthening the construction skills pipeline through a Supply Chain and Capability Exchange programme
  • delivering ‘Recruit to Retain’ leadership training for health and social care managers
  • piloting digital capability assessments for businesses
  • developing a core employability skills programme to better prepare learners for the workplace.

The Surrey LSIP will continue to evolve through collaboration with employers, education and training providers, local authorities and wider stakeholders.

A spokesman for Surrey Chambers said: “By working together, partners will help ensure Surrey develops a skilled, adaptable and resilient workforce capable of meeting the changing needs of its economy.

“Employers and stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the Surrey LSIP throughout its delivery by sharing insights, participating in sector discussions and helping shape future skills provision.

“Together, these partnerships will support businesses to grow, create new opportunities for residents and strengthen Surrey’s economy for years to come.”

Phil Smith, Chair of Skills England, said: “The Local Skills Improvement Plans give areas a clear roadmap that will help create better skills for better jobs all across the country.

!These LSIPs, alongside the emerging sector jobs plans and the other stakeholder dialogues we are having, are helping us build a much better picture of the skills needs throughout the nation. Skills England is excited to play a key role in that journey, so that employers and learners can benefit in local communities.”

Find out more about the Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan 2026-2029 by emailing LSIP@surrey-chambers.co.uk.

Five people in suits sit in chairs as part of a panel discussion. Behind them are banners for the Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan and STEP Surrey.

Deadline extended for Adult Skills provision funding in Surrey

Published 22 June 2026

Skills and workforce

The competitive grant process for delivering Adult Skills Fund (ASF) provision in Surrey for the 2026 to 2027 academic year is now open and providers are invited to apply. Providers can also apply for Free Courses for Jobs (FCFJ) funding through the same process, which includes ringfenced funding for Construction and Engineering.

To give all interested providers the opportunity to apply, the deadline has now been extended to Wednesday 8 July 2026. The opportunity is open to all adult skills providers, with no geographical restrictions.

What the funding supports

Adult Skills Fund (ASF):

  • Supports adults aged 19 and over
  • Focuses on helping people gain skills for sustained employment or further learning with a view to gaining employment afterwards
  • Aims to address skills shortages and increase local productivity
  • Allows for tailored training based on individual needs

Free Courses for Jobs (FCFJ):

  • Funds free Level 3 qualifications (equivalent to A levels)
  • Available to adults without a Level 3 qualification, or those who are unemployed or earning below the regional low-wage threshold
  • Includes a limited number of Level 2 qualifications in construction, engineering and manufacturing

Further information about FCFJ can be found here.

Why this matters

Devolved funding enables Surrey County Council to align skills provision with local economic priorities, while supporting key groups and sectors. This will benefit Surrey residents and employers and will also contribute to economic growth across the county.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted via the competitive grant award application page.

All applicants should take care to read the specification document and complete a proposed delivery plan. For more information and answers to any questions not covered here please contact economy.growth@surreycc.gov.uk or get in touch via our Contact Us form.

Good luck with your application.

A man in a black suit, white shirt and tie stands in front of two promotional banners for STEP Surrey | Business Surrey

From classroom to career: how Teacher Encounters are shaping Surrey’s future workforce

Published 8 June 2026

Skills and workforce

Building stronger connections between education and business remains a key priority across Surrey and the Teacher Encounters programme continues to play an important role in bringing this to life. Returning for 2026, the initiative offers teachers the opportunity to step out of the classroom and into local workplaces, gaining first-hand insight into the industries their students may one day join.

What are Teacher Encounters?

Teacher Encounters are immersive, employer-led experiences designed to help educators better understand the skills, behaviours and pathways that are most valued in today’s workforce. By spending time within organisations, teachers can see how subjects are applied in real-world contexts, explore emerging careers and gather practical examples they can take back into their lessons.
This year’s programme has already seen strong engagement, with 11 employers involved and over 100 teachers registered.

Ringway and M Group got the 2026 series off to a great start with a highly insightful Teacher Encounter in February, offering early opportunities for educators to explore careers in the construction and highways industry. The programme continues in June 2026, with a diverse range of Surrey-based organisations opening their doors: RSM, CGI, Cambertronics, RHS Wisley, Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Supermassive Games, Macro and the Animal & Plant Health Agency.

A typical experience

Each encounter is carefully designed to showcase the breadth of career pathways within an organisation, from early careers and apprenticeships to experienced leadership roles. Teachers hear directly from employees at different stages of their journeys, helping to demystify routes into employment and highlight the importance of both technical knowledge and transferable skills.
Feedback from participants continues to highlight the value of these experiences. Following a recent Teacher Encounter at RSM, one attendee shared:

“Just a note to thank you both for putting on such a great day. Events such as these are invaluable in ensuring what we teach in class not only enables students to secure their academic qualifications but is done in a way to equip them with the life and work skills that today’s employers are looking for. A great reminder of the need to balance educational attainment with well-developed interpersonal / soft skills. Also hearing directly from your early career employees, alongside tenured leaders was incredibly insightful. Fantastic experience, thank you to all who gave up their time to accommodate us.”

While another teacher who attended the encounter at Cambertronics said:

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about your company and the work you do. It was a valuable and insightful experience. The knowledge and insights I gained will be very useful, and I look forward to sharing them with my students and colleagues to help inspire and inform them.“

This feedback reflects a consistent theme: Teacher Encounters not only enhance teachers’ understanding of industry but also support more meaningful careers guidance for students. By bridging the gap between education and employment, the programme helps ensure young people are better prepared for the opportunities and challenges ahead.

With continued collaboration between schools and employers, Teacher Encounters are helping to build a more connected, informed and future-ready workforce across Surrey.

Find out more

More information about the Teacher Encounters programme can be found on the Surrey County Council website.

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 them on LinkedIn.

Hundreds of young people with SEND explore their futures at Surrey’s 2026 Transitions Fair

Published 13 May 2026

Skills and workforce

Hundreds of young people with additional needs got a taste for their future at Surrey County Council’s 2026 Transitions Fair.

More than 300 young people attended the Surrey County Council-hosted event which brought together over 30 exhibitors and 19 schools from across the county.
This event enabled young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to understand the options available for their transition from education to employment, further education, training or social settings.

Now in its second year, the fair at the council’s Woodhatch Place HQ in Reigate attracted enthusiastic participation from attendees aged 14 to 25.

It was organised by Surrey Careers Hub, which connects schools and colleges with employers to inspire the county’s future workforce.

Tim Oliver, Leader of Surrey County Council, shared his positive reflections on the success of the fair:
“The Transitions Fair is one element of Surrey’s education, skills and training offer for young people. Surrey County Council is committed to ensuring that every young person in Surrey, regardless of their educational needs, has access to the resources and support that will help them succeed, with no one left behind.

“It is inspiring to see so many young people actively exploring the range of options open to them for their future. I’m sure those attending left feeling inspired and enthused about their futures.”

What the fair covered

The event’s 30-plus exhibitors included colleges and educators, employers, employment support organisations, apprenticeship providers and social settings. All were dedicated to offering valuable guidance and information to help attendees make informed choices about their next steps.

A bespoke film featuring representatives from Surrey County Council’s facilities management contract was commissioned to demonstrate to students the people and the jobs that keep Woodhatch Place a safe, welcoming and accessible working environment. Students were inspired to hear about the types of roles available, learning how staff came to be employed in those roles and how they are continuing to enjoy their roles and grow their careers.

Before the fair started, exhibitors were introduced to Understand Us, who use first-hand lived experience to help organisations improve their services for both customers and employees who live with a learning disability.

One enthused student from The Park School commented: “Thank you so much. I loved it. I know so much more now about what I can do after school.”

And a teacher from Oxted School said “A fantastic opportunity for students who needed additional support and guidance about their future with some amazing exhibitors at hand, who had time to explain their products in a very patient and easy to understand manner.”

Exhibitors also found the event to be highly successful and worthwhile attending, with one representative from Activate Learning commenting: “Events like this play a vital role in ensuring career fairs are accessible to everyone, offering meaningful interactions and opportunities that are achievable for attendees.”

To find out more about Surrey Careers Hub, and about the skills, training and employment support that Surrey County Council can provide, visit STEP Surrey, our skills, training and employment portal today at: www.STEPSurrey.co.uk

About Surrey Careers Hub

Surrey Careers Hub plays a vital role in connecting education with employment, helping all young people, including those with additional needs and disabilities, to identify and progress to their best next step. At the heart of the Careers Hub is the belief that every young person deserves the strongest possible start to adult life, with the freedom to choose their own path and achieve their full potential.

The Surrey Careers Hub sits within Surrey County Council’s Economy and Growth Team. Working in partnership with The Careers and Enterprise Company, it collaborates with careers leaders, educators, employers and training providers to inspire and prepare young people through high-quality, modern careers education fit for the 21st century.

List of exhibitors:

Achieve Together
Activate Learning
Adult Services
Ambitious College
Art Venture
Brooklands College
Choice Care Group
Consensus Support
Skills, Training & Employment Portal – STEP Surrey
County Care
Derwen College
Dramatize
Early Years Workforce Development
Edge Disability
Family Information Service
The Grange
Halow Project
Jigsaw Plus
Linkable
MIT Skills
Nescot
nviro
Orchard Hill College
Parity
Professional Training Solutions
Ringway
SEND Advice Surrey
Skills Bootcamps
Sunnybank Trust
Surrey Choices
Surrey Youth Voice
Voluntary Action South-East
Voyage Care