Partnerships between schools and businesses, a key issue for firms across Bristol, can have significant benefits, according to the results of a national survey of education chiefs and company bosses.
Some 3,500 teaching staff and business leaders took part in the research run by the British Chambers of Commerce – with the vast majority (88%) of education leaders saying employer engagement had led to improved outcomes for their pupils.
However, there were still issues to overcome on both sides, the research showed – a finding echoed by Bristol business leaders.
Other benefits included increased motivation in lessons (73%) and better careers information (53%). But among the factors holding back further improvements, businesses cited staff time (53%) and cost (38%) while 42% of educators identified a lack of interest from business. 
Business West – the region’s largest business organisation and a member of the British Chambers of Commerce – said with youth unemployment still way above average unemployment and pre-recession levels, the research showed more had to be done to strengthen engagement between business and education.
Business West managing director Phil Smith, pictured, said: “Ahead of the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement last month we highlighted that the skills gap is a national embarrassment and called for more government intervention to address this issue.
“There are already some great examples of effective school and business partnerships across the South West, but this survey shows that a greater push is needed from both sides if we are to overcome the barriers which both education and business face.
“It’s time for business and education to work together and make skills shortages a thing of the past.”
Prof Steve West, president of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Initiative at Business West added: “This survey underlines the difference that even the slightest engagement with business can have on young people’s ambitions and achievements.
“I would encourage more employers to offer their support to the many initiatives available so we can direct young people to the many strong career opportunities available in our region. Solving our skill shortages is a key priority for Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Initiative and Business West.”
A number of projects have been set up to link business and educators such as Ablaze, Teach First, Academy Ambassadors, the Learning City Initiative, the West of England LEP and the Bristol Initiative Charitable Trust.
Earlier this year the British Chambers of Commerce also launched the ‘Your Future’ programme of 250 careers events across the country. The first event in Bristol last month gave more than 100 students the chance to interview for apprenticeships and to find out more about a growing sector. These projects show that progress has been made, but there is still work to be done.
