The Bedford College Group has launched an Industry Advisory Board to strengthen collaboration between education and employers across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire.
The initiative brings together senior leaders from business and the Group to ensure courses, facilities and teaching reflect current industry standards and future workforce needs. Its introduction coincides with National Apprenticeship Week and a renewed focus on developing practical routes into employment.
The inaugural meeting, held at King’s House in Bedford, attracted 100 representatives from more than 50 organisations, including Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, Bedford Borough Council, John Lewis and Kier Construction.
Industry sectors represented include advanced engineering and manufacturing, construction and the built environment, creative and digital technologies, visitor economy, business and professional services, health and social care, logistics, life sciences, and agriculture, horticulture and animal care.
Discussions centred on curriculum relevance, clear career pathways, emerging technologies, and closing the gap between academic learning and workplace expectations. Board members have committed to meeting three times a year to provide structured input into curriculum design and strategic planning.
Robin Webber-Jones, Deputy CEO and Executive Director of Curriculum, said the Board formalises employer engagement and strengthens the skills pipeline for the region.
Yiannis Koursis OBE FRSA, Chief Executive of The Bedford College Group, said direct employer involvement ensures students develop skills aligned with real business requirements.
Kathryn Lusk, Group Head of Business Engagement, said the focus is on converting employer insight into measurable action, ensuring training reflects the roles, standards and technologies currently shaping industry.
Justin Richardson, Chief Executive of Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, said businesses recognise that long-term growth depends on access to local talent and welcomed the opportunity to influence curriculum and skills development.
Alison Loxley, Operations Manager, People, Planning and Training at John Lewis, said the Board provides a structured route to align logistics and business insight with education, while giving students meaningful exposure to working environments.
Justine Maroudias, Director of Talk UK, described the initiative as a practical way to ensure learning remains relevant to today’s workplace, particularly in business and professional services.
Alistair Irvine, Head of Operations at Brinkley Aerospace and a former apprentice, said employer participation helps address the transition from education to employment by sharing operational realities and sector expectations.
The Bedford College Group will now integrate feedback from the first session into future curriculum development and strategic planning.
Further information on courses is available at bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk.
Image: Yiannis Koursis OBE, CEO of The Bedford College Group, gives a keynote speech at the launch of the Group’s Industry Advisory Board.
