The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Skills, Careers and Employment (APGSCE) recently brought together parliamentarians, employer representatives, and sector leaders to discuss Skills England's strategic priorities and its emerging role in shaping a more coherent and effective national skills system. 

Chaired by Lauren Edwards MP, the roundtable featured a Q&A with Phil Smith CBE, Chair, and Sarah Maclean, Chief Executive Officer of Skills England, who reflected on the organisation's early work and ambitions for the years ahead. 

Participants reflected on the organisation's potential to simplify the current landscape, strengthen alignment between national and local priorities, and foster collaboration across regions. 

The discussion centred on how to engage employers - particularly SMEs - in addressing their own workforce needs and contributing to a more responsive skills ecosystem. 

Attendees highlighted the importance of clear and accessible pathways into technical education, renewed parity of esteem between vocational and academic routes, and stronger lifelong learning opportunities for adults. 

Other key themes included the need for coherent careers guidance, inclusive representation, sustainable funding for training providers, and effective use of data and evidence to inform decision-making. 

Looking ahead, participants expressed optimism that Skills England can provide the clarity, coordination, and authority needed to build a skills system that works for learners, employers, and the wider economy. 

For more information on the event or work of the APGSCE, please contact alyson.hwang [at] policyconnect.org.uk.