From the Chamber: Investing in our young people to build a stronger future

Wokingham Borough is fortunate to be one of the most prosperous areas in the country, with excellent schools, strong educational outcomes and thriving businesses. However,
beneath these positive headlines there are growing challenges that require action. Not every young person benefits equally from the opportunities available, and we are seeing
increasing numbers of young people facing barriers to education, training and employment.

Our new strategy recognises that early intervention is key. By helping young people develop skills, confidence and aspirations at an early stage, we can reduce inequalities,
improve life chances and support local businesses by ensuring they have access to the skilled workforce they need.

The Borough continues to perform strongly in education, with GCSE and A-Level results consistently above national averages. Participation in education and training among 16
and 17-year-olds is the highest in the South East, and apprenticeship numbers are increasing, with more than 1,000 apprenticeship starts recorded last year.

Yet we know that success is not shared by everyone. Young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), care leavers, those from disadvantaged
backgrounds and some migrant communities can face significant obstacles. These may include limited access to work experience, challenges with transport, mental health
concerns, financial pressures and a lack of awareness of the opportunities available to them.

We are also concerned by rising levels of economic inactivity among young adults aged 20 to 24. While unemployment remains below the national average, too many young
people are struggling to take the next step into work, training or further education.

That is why the strategy focuses on practical support. We want to strengthen links between education providers and employers, increase access to work placements and
apprenticeships, improve careers guidance and create more opportunities for young people to develop the skills employers are looking for. We are also working to ensure
that vulnerable groups receive the tailored support they need to succeed.

Importantly, young people themselves are helping to shape the strategy. We have been working closely with our Youth MPs, Youth Council, SEND Youth Forum and Corporate
Parenting Board to understand their experiences and hear directly about the challenges they face. Their voices are helping us create a strategy that reflects real needs and
delivers meaningful outcomes.

Businesses also have a crucial role to play. By offering work experience, mentoring, apprenticeships and employment opportunities, local employers can help unlock young
people’s potential while addressing their own future skills needs.

This strategy is about more than employment statistics. It is about ensuring every young person, regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity to thrive. By
investing in skills, supporting aspiration and building stronger partnerships across our community, we can create a borough where everyone has the chance to succeed.

Together, we can build a brighter future for our young people and a stronger future for Wokingham Borough.

Councillorr Mark Ashwell - Executive Member Economic Development