In addition, extra construction courses - plumbing, carpentry and engineering - are also being added to help meet the Government’s ambitious targets for house building and other large infrastructure projects across London to boost the economy.
With the Covid-19 pandemic adversely affecting some industries, London South East Colleges is working closely with employers to understand newly emerging skills needs and where career opportunities are available.
Health and Social care was already experiencing skills gaps before Covid-19, but now demand is greater than ever. Currently there is a shortage of over 100,000 full-time equivalent staff in the NHS and a further 122,000 in adult social care; by 2035 there will be around 950,000 new adult social care workers needed and the King’s Fund suggests the NHS workforce gap could reach almost 250,000 by 2030.
Experts also forecast that around 203,000 people with engineering skills are needed every year and around 168,500 construction jobs will be created by 2023.
Deputy CEO and Principal at London South East Colleges, David Lambert, says: “As a college, we are working hard to be flexible and responsive to the changing skills needs across London. As the economy recovers from the effects of Covid-19, it’s vital that young people have the support and guidance they need to access fulfilling jobs. This will benefit them as well as the wider economy.
“We have identified courses where we have seen increased demand for places in these key sectors – construction and Health & Social Care - and put an additional 30% provision in these areas. This will ensure that we can give young people the opportunity to progress into the career of their choice, where lots of jobs exist.
“It’s been a challenging time for so many young people, with exams cancelled and much uncertainty over next steps. However, we are here to support students into a range of exciting pathways and give them hope that they can still achieve career success.”
London South East Colleges has courses to suit people of all ages, interests and abilities. Visit LSEC.ac.uk to enrol online NOW or call 020 3954 4000 to speak to one of our career advisors about the best option for you.
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