Skills For Business

Background

This phase of the project will investigate the potential for raising demand and interest in the skills that local business require, through an integrated and holistic approach for Post-16 learning in Merthyr Tydfil.

Consultants, CRG Research were commissioned to undertake research in this area and have reported on the “Skills for Business” learning provision that currently exists within Merthyr Tydfil. Findings and specific recommendations were incorporated into their report, highlighting future provision that will meet the needs of learners and employers so that an integrated and holistic learning provision can be developed.

This element of the project should not be confused with the Further Education and Work Based Learning elements that are subject to separate reports.

As part of the research the following was explored:

The range and appropriateness of short/bespoke courses that are currently being delivered to local businesses in Merthyr Tydfil;
The body of primary research evidence that has already been commissioned in respect of “Skills for Business” within Merthyr Tydfil;
The quality and appropriateness of the physical environment in which this learning takes place;
The use of Information Communications Technology as a means to promote and enhance the learning experience;
The role of learning in providing business support, advice and guidance;
A detailed research methodology that illustrates the current demand for “Skills for Business” learning in Merthyr Tydfil from a learner/employer perspective;
Identification of good practice case studies that could be used as a basis for future provision in Merthyr Tydfil;
Identification of relevant and appropriate funding methodologies that could be effectively used to support “Skills for Business” within Merthyr Tydfil. The allocation/volume of current funding units should be identified together with the anticipated funding units required to meet future demand;
The capacity of local learning providers to effectively deliver “Skills for Business” and the staffing implications that this may cause;
Recommend how the management and coordination of this function can be improved upon in the future;
Cross-cutting themes;
Etc.