Delivering and supporting schemes that can help to raise the skill levels of the workforce in the Rural Regeneration Zone and those who are entering employment is a key priority.
Working alongside the Regional Skills Partnership, the Zone is committed to meeting the skills needs of employers are paramount, and this is reflected in the nature of the Zone’s investments in skills.
The Zone has invested £3.5 million in the development of Hereford Learning Village to create a Learning Resources Centre, Business Centre and Technology Centre.
This flagship project is providing a co-ordinated range of courses targeted specifically for local employers.
Also in Hereford, the Zone has supported the Royal National College for the Blind in its development of a complimentary therapies training facility as part of a major revamp of the site, improving not only access to skills put promoting economic inclusion.
Additionally, the Skillbuilders project is working with schools in and around Ludlow to teach and develop interest in traditional skills which have provided economic foundations in the Zone, such as cookery and furniture making.
Activity in supporting skills within the Zone is closely linked to investments made to support enterprise.