South Shropshire MP Philip Dunne is urging colleges and further education providers in Shropshire to apply for additional government funding by June 20, 2023. This funding aims to enhance local skills training and support the employment prospects of individuals within their communities.

A total of £165 million will be distributed across various regions, enabling them to improve their skills training initiatives. The funds will be used to upgrade facilities with modern equipment, enhance the skills of teachers, and introduce new courses in essential subjects.

The additional funding will be directed towards courses focused on green construction, carbon capture, cyber security, and those aligned with the requirements of local employers. Successful applicants will be granted financial support to implement initiatives aligned with their region's Local Skills Improvement Plan, which is devised by employer bodies to ensure technical training after the age of 16 caters to local demands.

This investment will have a positive impact on local economies by enabling businesses to access the necessary skills, aligning with the Prime Minister's priority of economic growth.

Philip Dunne said:

“Investing in education and skills will unlock future growth, boost productivity, and help build the skilled workforce of the future in South Shropshire.

“That is why I welcome the extra £165 million investment in skills training from the Conservative Government and encourage colleges and further education providers across the county to apply for their share to help get more people into jobs closer to home.

“This new funding will deliver the skills our local employers need, while levelling up skills training across the country and helping to grow our economy.”

Commenting, Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education Robert Halfon said:

“Building a world-class skills and apprenticeships nation means listening to the specific needs of local people, businesses, and institutions.

“This funding will revolutionise how we plug local skills gaps and provide a boost to the economy. Supporting colleges to better meet the needs of local employers not only boosts businesses, it extends the ladder of opportunity to even more people from all backgrounds who will be equipped with the skills they need to secure a rewarding job close to home.”