BAE Systems and Whitbread are among a number of well-known UK employers that have joined a nationwide campaign to embed vocational qualifications (VQs) and learning into the future of British businesses.

BAE Systems, Cisco, The De Vere Academy, Mitchells & Butlers, EDF Energy Whitbread, Graphite Resources and Astra Zeneca have signed a 12-month commitment to encourage and support vocational learning in the local community.

The employers have committed to ensuring that at least one of the following is undertaken in the next 12 months:

• to provide project and/or coursework materials to local schools/colleges/training providers

• to offer work placements to 16-18-year-olds

• to give employees an opportunity to talk at a local school/college/learning provider and offer mentoring, deliver a workshop or provide advice on interview techniques

• to host a breakfast meeting with local schools/colleges/learning providers and discuss working relationships and the needs of the local market

• to sign-up to the Million Extra apprenticeship scheme, which is dedicated to building a stronger economy through vocational education http://www.million-extra.co.uk/

Peter Mitchell, interim chief executive of Edge, an education foundation that works to raise the awareness and status of VQs, says:

“Vocational qualifications have never been more important to the economy; they deliver trained, talented employees and ensure young people have the skills needed to succeed in education and work.

“Commitment from UK employers is vital for those studying VQs and we welcome these organisations’ undertaking to put greater focus on vocational education in the next 12 months. We would like to thank those who have signed already and encourage more employers to follow their lead.”