The document summarizes a meeting of education representatives from various institutions in Thurrock to discuss skills development in the local population. It notes that while Thurrock has high employment, many jobs are low-skilled and low-wage. Reports indicate Thurrock has potential for economic growth but lacks a skilled workforce. The group discussed visions for improving educational participation and progression routes between schools, further education and adult learning to build skills and engage employers to meet future business needs.

1. PURE Study Visit – 6 March 09 Wendy Barnes, South East Essex College Bob Mack – University of Essex Sheila Salmon – Anglia Ruskin University Maureen Wilcox – Thurrock Learning Partnership Ray Wilkinson , University of East London

2. Thurrock – Key Facts Population of 146,000 95.3% white 2.0% S. Asian 1.2% Afro-Caribbean High Levels of Employment, but.. Low skill Low wage 1/3 of all employment in retail high employment in transport and logistics

3. Potential? “ Thurrock is a key growth location in the Thames Gateway, with the potential to become an important centre for international trade and enterprise…” KPMG

5. “ Education and skills are a major force behind economic prosperity and development and are vital for sustaining job creation in the future, the present situation in Thurrock reflects a scenario where businesses with high level skills requirements do not choose Thurrock as a base…” KPMG Barriers

8. East of England Participation Rates

10. The Vision Landmark Town Centre Building Quality progression routes between School, FE, Adult Learning & Adult Learning –won’t work without it Significant step change in participation Incremental change will take too long and achieve not very much

11. Just add water…

12. Local Impact – town centre regeneration

13. Building Demand - Thurrock Learning Shop

14. Building Employer Engagement - Knowledge Thurrock