21 FEB 2023

Tax breaks and "sweeteners" to aid skills shortage

A new report published today by Think Tank ResPublica, has called on the government to look at tax breaks for employers and sweeteners for teachers in skills shortage areas as part of measures to address the recruitment crisis.

A new report published today by Think Tank ResPublica, has called on the government to look at tax breaks for employers and sweeteners for teachers in skills shortage areas as part of measures to address the recruitment crisis.

There is a broad consensus across the political spectrum that we need to radically improve the quantity and quality of technical and vocational education to address the skills shortages that are holding the UK economy back. However, in common with many other sectors, the FE and skills sector is facing a growing crisis in recruiting and retaining appropriately qualified staff.

It is widely acknowledged that the best people to deliver the skills training and education urgently needed are “dual professionals”, staff who can combine up-to-date experience and expertise in industry with the ability to teach young and adult students to a high standard.

This report reviews progress so far in recruiting and supporting dual professionals, particularly in the FE college sector, and identifies the key barriers that are being faced. It then explores what new policies and strategies are required to attract and retain more of these professionals into the FE and skills workforce.

Read the full report here.