The FSB Education and Skills Policy Unit works to ensure small firms can access apprenticeships, training and a workforce equipped with the attributes needed to perform their job function and compete in the global marketplace.

Colin Willman, Education and Skills Chairman

Current work

> Five Point Plan

The FSB has urged the Government to invest in apprenticeships as part of a blueprint for tackling rising unemployment and creating jobs.

> Education and Skills Bill

The Education and Skills Bill aims to increase participation in learning for young people and adults and allow them to gain the skills they need to thrive in society and throughout their working lives. Read the FSB response to the proposals.

> Apprenticeships: The Draft Apprenticeships Bill coincides with the Education and Skills Bill. View the FSB's response.

>Time to train: The Bill suggests all employees should have a 'Right to Request' time to train. Read the FSB's consultation response.

> School Governors

The FSB and national charity School Governors' One Stop Shop (SGOSS) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to encourage more small employers and their employees to become school governors.

Recent survey work:

> Sector Skills Councils: The FSB carried out a survey to influence the relicensing of Sector Skills Councils in April 2009. The findings of the survey are now available.

> Train to Gain: The FSB carried out a survey amongst a panel of members to find out views on the new Train to Gain Offer. The findings of the survey are now available.

> Nurseries

The FSB has campaigned vigorously on the need to save many private, voluntary and independent nurseries. Read the results of our latest member survey and contribute to a discussion thread on mumsnet. 

Stakeholders

Commission for Employment and skills

Learning Skills Council

School Governors One Stop Shop

Sector Skills Council