Employer engagement with higher education: defining, sustaining and supporting higher skills provision

Abstract

Produced in collaboration with the Council for Industry and Higher Education, this report summarises the findings from analysis of 27 case studies of HE-employer engagement initiatives, particularly those targeted at upskilling people in or entering the workforce. From examination of these cases it is concluded that the nature of HE-employer engagement is very diverse, covering a wide range of offerings, from major new ventures; through enhancing existing programmes; the provision of bespoke courses, workshops and seminars; to the assessment or accreditation of in-company learning. This diversity highlights the complexity of the higher skills market both in terms of the forms of engagement sought by employers as well as the variety of approaches from HEIs to meeting these needs. In setting out the main forms and drivers of HE-employer engagement, as well as common facilitators and barriers, this report aims to provide a framework against which HEIs can review their employer engagement activities and articulate a coherent and valuable offer to business and community organisations.