In this episode of Take Five, Lindsay Conroy (Director of Policy & Strategic Engagement) is joined by Phil Smith, Chair of Skills England, to explore the key themes emerging from the recently published Skills England Annual Report and what they mean for employers, learners and the future of the UK's skills system.

The discussion covers the growing challenge of supporting young people into employment, the need to better recognise and articulate transferable skills, and how a more joined-up approach across education, employment and government can improve outcomes. Phil also shares his perspective on place-based skills planning, engaging SMEs, simplifying access to skills support through technology and AI, and ensuring national employers can navigate an increasingly devolved skills landscape.

The episode concludes by examining how employers can play a greater role in addressing skills shortages through workforce planning, early talent investment, and collaboration, alongside government support where it is most needed. Throughout the conversation, Phil reinforces the importance of employer engagement, trusted networks, and practical action to build a stronger, more responsive skills system.

Further information on the Skills England Annual Report can be found here.

Welcome to the The 5% Club Podcast: Take Five – where we bring you insight, inspiration and innovation from employers, stakeholders, policy makers and contributors, all in 5% of your working day.

This episode is delivered in collaboration with the Youth Futures Foundation and forms part of a mini-series supporting the Make It An Apprenticeship Campaign.

Bagnalls discuss how employers can use apprenticeships to create opportunities for people as they enter the workforce - what if we were able to use apprenticeships to create more entry levels roles for people?

Welcome to the The 5% Club Podcast: Take Five – where we bring you insight, inspiration and innovation from employers, stakeholders, policy makers and contributors, all in 5% of your working day.

This episode is delivered in collaboration with the Youth Futures Foundation and forms part of a mini-series supporting the Make It An Apprenticeship Campaign.

Today Chris Shirley, Fellow of The 5% Club, is in conversation with Stephen Wilde, Managing Director of Southbourne Rubber, who shares how apprentices have been such a vital part of his business strategy.