World Leaders Come Together for the Big Conversation

Leaders from the United Kingdom and around the world gathered today for the first day of the WorldSkills Premiere Experience (WSPE). The WSPE is an event that takes part during the 41st WorldSkills Competition. At the core of this conference and event programme are the opportunities for networking, learning and sharing best practices. Today’s program saw approximately 300 people attend the Big Conversation delivered by Business in the Community (BITC) where work inspiration was the main focus.

The Work Inspiration Campaign aims to better prepare young people for employment and bridge the transition between the classroom and the world of work by turning work experience into “work inspiration”. Part One of the Big Conversation saw Lucy Adams, Director Business Operations, BBC and Sir Michael Rake, Chairman, BT Group Plc address the group and begin the conversation on inspiring youth and addressing the needs of the future workforce.

In the morning, study visits throughout London were offered to registered participants. This was the first of three days of visits where international leaders had the opportunity to visit a number of Further Education colleges and employee training facilities.  Michelle Turpin, WSPE Coordinator, indicated she has received fantastic feedback on the visits, as world leaders see them as an excellent avenue to see first-hand some of the best practices taking place throughout London.

Part Two of the Big Conversation involved a variety of “How to” seminars led by employers who addressed topics and issues related to current and future skills, and the delivery of engaging work placements.  Some of the highlighted programs included the Marks & Start employability programme implemented by Marks & Spencer and the Royal Air Force (RAF) Roadshow, an innovative approach to connecting with schools and creating teacher related resources.  Day two of the WSPE will continue with the annual WorldSkills Leaders Forum .