In the heart of the City of London, a bustling hub of commerce and innovation, lies a workforce that is not only young but also highly skilled. With over half of the Square Mile’s 615,000 workers under the age of 40, the future of this dynamic financial district is in the hands of a generation that is poised to lead the way in the ever-evolving landscape of work and technology.
As new cohorts of young professionals enter the workforce, it is crucial to recognize the unique challenges and opportunities they will face. Unlike previous generations, today’s youth are the first to embrace artificial intelligence as an integral part of their daily lives, shaping the way they work and interact with technology. They are also the first to bear the weight of addressing climate change and sustainability, issues that will define their generation’s legacy.
Education plays a pivotal role in preparing this new wave of workers for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Whether through traditional schooling, university education, or workplace training, investing in the skills and knowledge of the workforce is essential for laying the groundwork for future success in the City of London.
The City of London Corporation has taken proactive steps to ensure that young people are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in the workplace. Through the City of London Academies Trust, a network of 10 high-performing academies across London, students are provided with exceptional learning opportunities that bridge the gap between education and the real world of work.
Recent achievements by students at the City of London Academies Trust highlight the success of this approach. At the City of London Academy Highgate Hill, A-level students achieved impressive results with 57% attaining A*-A grades and 85% receiving A*-B grades. Meanwhile, at the City of London Academy Shoreditch Park, GCSE students achieved their best results to date, with 83% of pupils gaining Level 4 passes or above in English and Maths.
These achievements are not just a testament to the hard work of students and teachers but also to the City Corporation’s commitment to empowering young people from all backgrounds. Many of the academies in the trust cater to students from disadvantaged communities, where over 60% receive free school meals – a stark contrast to the national average. By providing quality education and support to these communities, the City Corporation is helping to level the playing field and promote social mobility.
However, education does not stop at the school gates. The City Corporation recognizes the value of apprenticeships in building a future-proof workforce and providing young people with the skills they need to succeed. Currently, there are 180 apprentices placed across various departments within the City Corporation, gaining valuable on-the-job training and experience.
In addition to apprenticeships, the City Corporation’s London Careers Festival offers 30,000 young people each year access to employment advice, apprenticeship opportunities, and work experience with leading global institutions. By opening doors to opportunity and nurturing the talent of tomorrow, the City is solidifying its position as a global leader in people, skills, and technology.
As policy chairman of the City of London, Chris Hayward emphasizes the importance of investing in the future generation of workers. By providing them with the education, skills, and support they need to thrive, the City is paving the way for a workforce that is not only future-ready but also equipped to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world. In doing so, the Square Mile is securing its place as a beacon of innovation and excellence for years to come.