New skills plan launched for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
Leaders from business, education, local government and local organisations have met at Cornwall College to launch a new Workforce & Skills Strategy for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
The event was part of the “Cornwall Month of Skills” and brought together employers, training providers and support services to look at how the region can build a more skilled and resilient workforce.
One shared plan
Professor Emma Hunt, Chair of the CIoS Workforce & Skills Board, said the Strategy is about working together on a single plan for local skills.
She explained that changes in the economy, technology and population mean the region needs new ways to support people into work and help businesses find the staff they need.
The Strategy links to the wider Cornwall Good Growth Plan, so skills work supports the area’s long‑term economic goals.
Four main priorities
The Strategy focuses on four key areas:
- Inspire – raise aspirations and show people what opportunities exist
- Transform – make routes into jobs and training clearer and more effective
- Innovate – try new ways of developing skills and boosting productivity
- Thrive – help people and businesses grow, progress and succeed
These priorities aim to improve pathways for residents and strengthen the local talent pipeline, especially in priority sectors.
Tackling local skills gaps
Stacey Sleeman, Head of Skills at Cornwall Council, said employers are struggling to fill roles, while young people want clearer routes into work.
She described the Strategy as a “step‑change” that brings all partners around one plan, based on strong labour market evidence and a focus on lifelong learning.
Existing programmes – such as the devolved Adult Skills Fund, Skills Bootcamps and targeted sector schemes – are already helping to deliver early progress.
Working together
The event also heard from:
- Joanie Willett, University of Exeter, on the evidence behind the Strategy and the potential for innovation
- Cornwall College leaders, who stressed the importance of close links between education and employers
Partners were asked to support delivery by offering placements, taking part in careers activities, helping shape course content and sharing data on outcomes.
Stacey Sleeman said:
“This Strategy belongs to all of us. Its success depends on shared leadership and ongoing collaboration. Together, we can build a thriving, inclusive skills system for the future of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.”
Copies of the Strategy and details of how to get involved are being shared with partners across the region.