The Bedford College Group has successfully launched its new industry advisory board, a major initiative designed to bring local employers and education leaders together to ensure students are fully prepared for the world of work and equipped with the skills industry needs now and in the future.
Industry advisory boards create a formal partnership between The Bedford College Group and employers from across the region, providing a platform to discuss curriculum relevance, workforce preparation, clear career pathways and the evolving needs of different industries.
The initiative also supports the Group’s commitment to ensuring its colleges offer first-class, industry-relevant courses, facilities and teaching informed by current professional practice.
The inaugural industry advisory board meeting took place at King’s House in Bedford and welcomed 100 attendees from more than 50 businesses and organisations, including Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, Bedford Borough Council, John Lewis and Kier Construction.
The event opened with a welcome address from Deputy CEO and executive director of curriculum at The Bedford College Group, Robin Webber-Jones, followed by a keynote speech from the chief executive officer of The Bedford College Group, Yiannis Koursis OBE FRSA.
Attendees then took part in focused discussions within their specific industry sectors, alongside opportunities for cross-sector collaboration and open conversation.
The industry sectors represented on the board include:
- Advanced engineering and manufacturing technologies
- Construction, planning and the built environment
- Creative and digital technologies
- The visitor economy
- Business and professional services
- Health and social care
- Logistics
- Life Sciences
- Agriculture, horticulture and animal care
Reflections of the meeting
Group head of business engagement at The Bedford College Group, Kathryn Lusk, said: “The level of engagement at our first industry advisory board shows how committed businesses are to working with us, and this board is about listening to employers and turning that insight into action.
“It helps us build a stronger skills pipeline for the region, shaping training around the roles, standards and technologies that businesses are using right now and in the future.”
Justin Richardson, chief executive of Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, said the board created an opportunity for employers to influence skills development and connect with local talent.
He encouraged businesses to consider apprenticeships, describing them as a valuable route into industry.
Alison Loxley, operations manager at John Lewis, said the initiative strengthened links between education and industry.
“It ensures what’s delivered aligns with employer needs and gives students genuine exposure to working life,” she said, adding that apprenticeships are “a brilliant way to build experience.”
Justine Maroudias, director of Talk UK, said the board felt innovative and practical.
“Students gain exposure to what employers are looking for, and businesses can help shape learning so it stays relevant,” she said, describing apprenticeships as a strong pathway into industry.
Alistair Irvine, head of operations at Brinkley Aerospace, who began his career as an apprentice at Bedford College, said he joined to help bridge the gap between education and the workplace.
“Apprenticeships are an excellent way to launch your career and gain hands-on experience,” he said.
The Bedford College Group said insights from the first session will inform future planning across its colleges.
