More than 25 local businesses have come together to strengthen links between education and working life, together with staff from Norton Radstock College and Bath Spa University.
The networking event saw business leaders from throughout the region learning about the benefits of apprenticeships and work placements.
Businesses from engineering, computing, tourism and service industries were informed how apprentices can boost productivity and the local economy.
The event at Farrington’s Farm Shop was part of a European project called Connect-VET, which aims to develop innovations in the vocational education and training sector.
The project aims to improve the connections between employers and students during their studies and increase their readiness for entrepreneurship.
Project leader Rosaleen Courtney, who works at Norton Radstock College, said: “We are working together and building cooperation between local businesses and training providers.
“We find out the skills needs of businesses and how we can meet their needs.
“We address funding issues and spread the word on how apprenticeships and work placements can fill any gaps.”
Norton Radstock College has been working alongside the West of England Rural Network, the Local Enterprise Partnership and Bath Spa University on the Connect-VET project for about one-and-a-half years.
They share good practice with partners across seven different countries, including Finland, Italy, Spain and Estonia.
Rosaleen added: “It’s all about building links between the college, the university and businesses to help develop the local economy.
“It’s been really good to learn from other countries and to come together to move forward.”
Andy Jeffery, owner of Farrington’s Farm Shop, said: “Our experience is that most rural businesses don’t realise how much help the local colleges and training providers can be to them.
“Rather than taking on staff themselves, rural businesses should consider recruiting through the colleges, who will tailor people to the roles.”
Another business breakfast for employers will take place on Wednesday 22nd April at Newton Farm and Village Hall, Newton St Loe.
For further information, get in touch with Project leader Rosaleen Courtney at Norton Radstock College, email [email protected].
