4 SEP 2023

Developing a ‘Green Skills’ curriculum in your college

Green Skills are high on the government’s agenda and there are vast opportunities for colleges to ensure that their technical skills provision is responsive to local labour market demands and Education for Sustainable Development is embedded throughout the curriculum

A recent FE Week article discusses the importance of developing a "Green Skills" curriculum in colleges, highlighting how this initiative aligns with the UK government's focus on sustainability and the transition to a greener economy. The Skills for Jobs FE white paper, released in January 2021, emphasised the role of Further Education (FE) colleges in reskilling the UK workforce. Following the COP26 conference in Glasgow, the UK committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, which is expected to generate a significant number of Green Jobs, with up to 440,000 new opportunities projected by 2030.

Colleges are recognised as key players in this effort, particularly through initiatives like the Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF), which aims to address local skills gaps and has allocated substantial funding (£185 million) to the FE sector. This funding can be used to develop and deliver new Green Skills courses, enhance facilities, acquire equipment, and upskill teaching staff. Green skills have been identified as a priority in various sectors, such as construction, transport, and engineering, where both local employers and learners are eager to acquire these skills to boost employability and contribute to addressing the climate emergency.

In summary, the article underscores the importance of colleges embracing Green Skills within their curricula, aligning with the UK's commitment to a sustainable future and addressing the growing demand for skills in the green economy. The availability of substantial funding through LSIF and increased flexibility in funding formulas further support the rapid implementation of Green Skills initiatives within the FE sector.

Full article via FE Week