Stephen Metcalfe MP holds discussions over new University Technical College for Basildon
Local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock Stephen Metcalfe has this week moved his ambition to secure a new University Technical College (UTC) for the area one step closer.
Following Stephen’s question in Parliament about how a local UTC would encourage and enthuse local young people to look at engineering as a valued career Stephen secured a meeting with Lord Baker from the Baker Dearing Educational Trust, the organisation that helps deliver UTC’s across the country.
Speaking after the meeting, Stephen said: “Having talked to Lord Baker, I am more convinced than ever that students form Basildon and Thurrock would truly benefit from a UTC giving them the skills they need to access the vast array of local job opportunities that exist now and in the future.”
“The next job is to engage with our vibrant business community and get them behind the idea.”
As Stephen said in Parliament this week during Work and Pensions questions: “One barrier to young people seeking employment is that they do not necessarily have the correct skills required to take up the opportunities on offer. Will my right hon. Friend work with colleagues in the Department for Education and across the Jobcentre Plus network to ensure that local schools and colleges are aware of the skills that local employers need?”
The Work and Pensions Minister Esther McVey, agreed with Stephen and added: “…We are working with the Department for Education on a new careers and enterprise company, and through the Inspiring the Future initiative young people are meeting business people to get a feel for what business and employment is all about, and we must support them as best we can.”
Stephen Metcalfe later commented: “With the Conservatives in Government and the prospect of a new University Technical College, the future for young people across Basildon and Thurrock has never been brighter”.
