Future’s Bright for British Graduates

Chloe Smith, MP for Norwich North, this week chaired a meeting of experts to discuss graduate employment, and how universities can better prepare their students in making the leap from the lecture theatre to the world of work. The debate, hosted by the Westminster Higher Education Forum, welcomed a panel of experts from business and academia. Key speakers included RAND Europe, the Higher Education Academy, Career Professor and the Institute for Chartered Accountants.

 

The future is looking good, with the number of students in higher education exceeding half a million for the first time. Moreover, students from disadvantaged backgrounds are going to university in greater number than ever before. Recent research by the Association of Graduate Recruiters, also present at the event, found a 13.2% increase in graduate hires in 2015, with a 3.7% increase in starting salaries. 

 

This week’s event is part of a long standing campaign by Chloe to improve prospects for young people, particularly in the labour market. Locally Chloe set up the Norwich for Jobs project, which has helped half youth unemployment in the city. In parliament Chloe is working to share best practice through chairing the APPG on Youth Employment. The group is particularly active, with a diverse range of employers and charities supporting it.

 

Commenting on the event, Chloe said:

 

“We know employers are looking for young recruits. What matters now is that young people are equipped to take up these opportunities, and aware of the variety of paths open to them. With many students in Norwich and elsewhere currently completing their dissertations and preparing for final exams, and young people coming to the last term of school or college, what comes next is vitally important and will no doubt be weighing heavily on their minds.

 

"Nationally, we must continue to keep the economy strong so as to keep the supply of opportunities flowing. There is nothing guaranteed about this so I welcome the Chancellor’s commitment in the recent budget to putting the next generation first. At an individual level, work experience and soft skills are crucial, especially business communication, commercial awareness and negotiating skills. Locally the Norwich for Jobs project can help with this, so please get in touch, we’d love to have you on board.”