Secretary of State Visits University Centre Peterborough

University Centre Peterborough (UCP), part of Inspire Education Group (IEG), was delighted to host Liz Kendall, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, alongside Minister for Employment Alison McGovern, MP for Peterborough Andrew Pakes, and Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, Dr Nik Johnson.

The visit, which featured a Jobs Fair, underscored the importance of education and employment pathways in addressing local and national skills challenges.

As part of IEG, University Centre Peterborough plays a pivotal role in equipping learners with the skills needed for emerging industries and providing clear pathways from further education to higher education. UCP’s higher education offering allows students to continue their academic journey locally, gaining degree-level qualifications tailored to meet industry needs and improving their employment prospects.

The visit showcased how the University Centre is supporting key national initiatives like the Government’s £240 million ‘Get Britain Working’ and ‘Youth Guarantee’ programmes. These efforts aim to create sustainable careers for young people and address the challenges faced by those not in education, employment, or training (NEET).

During the visit, Liz Kendall and other distinguished guests engaged with students, apprentices, and local employers to discuss how UCP’s programmes and partnerships are transforming education into tangible career opportunities. The Jobs Fair provided a platform for students to connect directly with employers, explore career options, and learn how higher education can unlock new possibilities.

Rachel Nicholls, CEO of IEG, added: “It is fantastic to see a renewed focus by the government on young people not in education, employment or training (NEET). These young people often take longer to achieve in education and yet the system makes it harder for them. Over half of 18-21 year olds are in Higher Education and benefit from maintenance grants and loans to support them with their studies and living costs, but young people not in education, employment or training also need support so they can access opportunities and training to get the great job they deserve.”

“With increased funding, collaborative working and a greater focus from government this will enable colleges to increase capacity and at Inspire Education Group we are committed to ensure we can have an even greater impact on the communities we serve.”