Lewisham College hosted a dynamic business breakfast event that drew over 70 employers and community representatives from Lewisham and beyond. The event provided a pivotal platform for networking and exploring collaboration opportunities to support students and advance workforce development initiatives.
The diverse stakeholders who attended the event included large corporations, small businesses, and non-profit organisations from various sectors that shared a commitment to investing in the community's future by empowering individuals with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive. Attendees included the NHS, Lewisham Council, Lewisham Local, The Albany, Department for Work and Pensions, Better Leisure, St Giles Trust, Greggs, Ignition Brewery, Kier, CITB, TfL, and many more.
Throughout the event, vibrant discussions resonated as participants delved into workforce development strategies, internship programs, and industry-specific training initiatives. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as attendees exchanged ideas and explored collaborative avenues to nurture talent and drive economic growth.
Attendees also had the chance to connect with Lewisham College students who shared their experiences of studying at the college and demonstrated the benefits of participating in work experience which has helped them enhance their interpersonal and employability skills while boosting their confidence. This highlighted the significance of businesses collaborating with educational institutions to support the future workforce.
Jamie Stevenson, Principal at Lewisham College, said: "Lewisham College's profound commitment to upskilling and fostering growth within the community was reflected in the event's success as it catalysed partnerships that would benefit both employers and students in Lewisham and beyond.
"Collaboration between businesses and educational institutions is crucial in providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workforce. The turnout and engagement at the Business Breakfast were truly inspiring. It's evident that stakeholders are committed to investing in our community's future by empowering individuals with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive."
The event's success underscores Lewisham College's pivotal role as a catalyst for economic development and social progress within the community, spearheading initiatives that drive collective prosperity. As the morning unfolded, connections were forged, and partnerships began to take shape, laying the groundwork for future collaborations that promise to enrich the educational landscape and bolster the local workforce.
Jiwan Lal, Executive Chef at Babur Restaurant said: “The classroom is where dreams take shape, knowledge finds its voice, and futures are forged. Events like this provide an excellent opportunity for us to connect with educational institutions and community organisations. By working together, we can create a more skilled and better-equipped workforce that can help drive economic growth and support the community's overall development."
Lewisham College has extensive experience supporting apprenticeships and providing professional development training courses to businesses in London. Services include free end-to-end service, work experience placements, guest speakers, industry visits, tours, workshops, and tailored training courses for new staff, existing employees, and senior managers. To learn more and build a better future for your business, visit lewisham.ac.uk/employers.
