2. Big50 Vision for North Northamptonshire Launches at Tresham College

In January, we hosted an event to share the research undertaken as part of  the BIG50 Vision for North Northamptonshire at Tresham College Corby.

The initiative aims to create a proud, prosperous, and proactive region by 2050, bringing together key organisations and representatives from industry, education, local authorities, and government.

Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council, highlighted the long-term impact of the project:

“BIG50 is a very exciting concept where we, along with partners, look to where North Northamptonshire will be in 2050. We want to work beyond the short-term cycle of local government and build a thriving region where people want to live, work, and invest.” 

A key focus of the BIG50 Vision is bridging the gap between young people and career opportunities available.

Laura Jane Rawlings, CEO of Youth Employment UK, stressed the importance of aligning skills with local job markets: 

“We know North Northamptonshire has a lot of opportunities, but there is still a disconnect between young people and the skills they need. The BIG50 is part of the solution to youth unemployment in our area.” 

The event concluded with a roundtable discussion on how organisations can work together and contribute to delivering the BIG50 Vision.

Robin Webber-Jones, Executive Director of Curriculum at The Bedford College Group, reinforced the role of education in the initiative: 

“Education is going to play a key part in closing the gap between education, skills, and industry. As the largest further education provider in North Northamptonshire, our role in the BIG50 is significant.” 

The next steps have begun and included forming a BIG50 Board to oversee delivery and launching a public campaign to drive engagement.

If your organisation would like to get involved in this project by informing the skills training needed in the area and how the Group can work with employers to close the skills gaps or to take part in upcoming events, please email communications@bedford.ac.uk .