A panel of business leaders gathered to discuss the most pressing topics in the industry at City of Bristol College’s first Business and Professional Services Networking Breakfast this week.
Our Head of Higher Education at the College, Zahid Gill, led insightful discussions on topics affecting business at the moment. How can employers get the employees with the skills they need? How can we retain great talent? How have patterns of work have changed since the pandemic, and how can employers get the best from their team?
The panel included Vice Principal at City of Bristol College Joanne Ward, Hays Recruitment Regional Director Rebecca Dance, and Employability and Opportunity Manager at UWE Bristol Rebecca Scott MBE.
Rebecca Dance spoke first-hand about her experience of employing apprentices through City of Bristol College and the immense value that apprentices can bring to their workplace. She reflected on the outdated view that the only way to succeed in a career was to study at a red-brick university, and how we now know that we can make those opportunities far more accessible.
Joanne Ward spoke about the rapid pace of change in the skills market and the need to be flexible to these changes.
She said “It was wonderful to welcome local employers to the College and share what we offer and how we can work together. Panel discussions always create though-provoking moments, and I am sure everyone took something away to share or think about.”
AAT accounting apprentices Madeline and Kelsey shared their experience of being an apprentice, and the knowledge and skills they have gained.
Around 20 different businesses were represented at the event, giving attendees a great networking opportunity over breakfast once the discussion had concluded. Plans are already underway for the next event, so if you’re keen to get involved, keep an eye on our events page!
