One of the greatest responsibilities I hold as the MP for Solihull West and Shirley is helping to ensure that the next generation has the support, opportunities, and direction it needs to succeed.
We are fortunate to have a wealth of young talent in our community, but talent alone is not enough. It must be matched with clear, practical routes into further education, employment, and training.
The recent Spending Review makes a number of headline-grabbing pledges. However, beneath the surface, there is cause for concern. Whilst ministers have announced a £2billion real-terms increase in the schools budget and £2.4billion annually to rebuild more than 500 schools, there is far too little detail on how young people will be supported beyond the age of 16.
We cannot build a competitive economy or a fair society without serious investment in post-16 training and apprenticeships. Vocational routes must no longer be treated as second-tier options. They are essential tools for unlocking potential, closing the skills gap, and promoting social mobility.
This is not theory; it is reality here in Solihull. During a recent visit to Solihull College, I spoke with students undertaking apprenticeships in engineering, IT, and healthcare. Apprenticeships offer a vital combination of earning and learning that too often goes overlooked in national policymaking.
The government has committed to creating 1.3million training opportunities for 16–19-year-olds. Whilst that figure may appear impressive, the key challenge is ensuring both quality and relevance.
In Solihull and Shirley, we benefit from an outstanding ecosystem of employers who are helping shape this future. From household names such as Jaguar Land Rover and Collins Aerospace, to professional firms like Fieldfisher at Blythe Valley and manufacturers such as Thor Hammer on the Cranmore Estate, our local economy is rich in opportunity. However, too many young people still struggle to access the opportunities on their doorstep. This disconnect must be addressed.
That is why I will shortly be announcing a new date for my constituency jobs fair. This event brings together employers, training providers, and jobseekers – helping to build the connections that drive long-term economic growth and personal ambition.
Equally important is the work of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. I recently met with representatives in Westminster, who outlined their ongoing collaboration with schools and local organisations. More than 450 young people in Solihull West and Shirley are currently taking part. The skills they develop – resilience, teamwork, leadership – powerfully complement academic study. My congratulations go to Tudor Grange Academy, which leads locally in participation, and my thanks to all the schools involved.
