We are committed to ensuring we have the skills to capitalise on the employment opportunities our growth sectors present. As Enterprise Areas are focused on growth sectors, often in emerging industries like renewables, tailored skills support will be an important part of the overall Enterprise Area package, enabling each site to realise its full potential.
Skills Development Scotland (SDS) will work closely with local partners to deliver bespoke skills plans to address the needs of new and expanding businesses in Scotland’s Enterprise Areas. SDS will aim to draw on national expertise and resources while also delivering local flexibility.
SDS will support, and where required lead, at a strategic sectoral level to ensure Enterprise Areas benefit from:
- The development and implementation of Skills Investment Plans for the Energy and Renewables, Life Sciences and Creative Industries sectors; and
- Adoption of a strategic joined-up approach in developing bespoke skills plans for new business settlement and growth opportunities.
These plans will help attract new talent to the sectors, enhance workforce productivity and enable ambitious growth objectives to be achieved. The plans will therefore help realise growth opportunities and encourage investment and job creation in these key strategic sites.
Furthermore SDS will work with partners to encourage businesses to invest in Enterprise Areas, helping these businesses to recruit and get the right training for their employees. Individuals will also be supported to identify and develop the skills and experience needed to take up opportunities created by businesses locating within an Enterprise Area.