Lewisham College, in partnership with Lewisham Council, proudly hosted a Business Breakfast gathering local business leaders, education representatives, and council officials, including Howard Dawber, the Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth.
Jamie Stevenson, Principal of Lewisham College, opened the event highlighting the vital importance of partnership between educational institutions and the local business community. Following this, Howard Dawber provided valuable insights into 'Grow London', an initiative under the Mayor of London and the London Council's Inclusive Talent Strategy, underscoring employer engagement's critical role in shaping the future workforce.
Brenda Dacres, Mayor of Lewisham, officially launched the Back Lewisham London Talent campaign, asking over 100 local employers at the event to pledge their support and offer opportunities to young people and adult learners, significantly increasing their exposure to the working world and enhancing meaningful interactions with potential employers before they enter industry. Councillor Ese Erheriene, Lewisham's Cabinet Member for Business, Jobs and Skills, alongside Jamie Stevenson, then shared practical insights on how employers and stakeholders can engage with this transformative campaign by signing up for the College's Skills Pledge.
Jamie Stevenson, Principal at Lewisham College, said: "The Back Lewisham London Talent Campaign is a fantastic example of Lewisham College’s commitment to developing a curriculum that meets academic standards and equips our students with essential skills for success in the London workforce.
“Our Skills Pledge is free to join and offers various engagement opportunities for employers. I call on all businesses in the area to sign it and commit to supporting young people and adult learners to be part of their future workforce."
The Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on the incredible talent that exists in Lewisham, and to create new ways for our brilliant businesses to support them and make sure our young people have the skills employers want to see.
“It’s vital that young people have access to these sorts of opportunities no matter what their background, and I know that businesses have strong ideas about the sorts of skills and knowledge that will help people when entering the jobs market. This programme will help learners and local businesses alike, and I’m excited to see the connections that are made as a result.”
The event also featured a Q&A panel moderated by NCG CEO Liz Bromley, allowing attendees to engage with the College and councillors before concluding with valuable networking opportunities.
This Business Breakfast was an excellent platform for local businesses to connect with education professionals, council representatives, and fellow entrepreneurs. The initiative promotes talent development and contributes to a vibrant workforce that drives sustainable growth and innovation across the borough.
To learn more about the 'Back Lewisham London Talent' campaign, please visit lewisham.ac.uk/back-lewisham-london-talent.
To sign the Skills Pledge, visit lewisham.ac.uk/pledge.
