Edge, a charity set up to promote practical learning in action, introduced the awards to highlight and support the work of employers who are filling the skills gap that affects so many of our young people.
Over four years, the Ludlow Marches Project has been addressing this problem, sending bakers, chefs, engineers and furniture makers, as well as other professional employers and college students into schools to share their knowledge and encourage the next generation with information and practical skills. By opening up a whole range of career options, they are giving school children greater opportunities to access jobs that suit them. As Graeme Perks, the project leader, points out, "the bigger gain is being part of the real world, a fellowship with peer groups".
The Ludlow Marches Skill Building Project is in the running again for this year's Edge awards.
Mr Dunne said: "I was pleased to welcome Project leaders and young people from Ludlow to this launch event at the House of Commons for this year's awards. It was a great honour that as past winners they were invited to show other MP's how this award can help bridge the skills gap."
Photo: Graeme Perks, Kevin Newbold, David Bufton, Philip Dunne MP, Alex Perks
