Dragon’s Den star Peter Jones has warned that the young people in Torbay could become a “lost generation” if they don’t get jobs or into some form of education. It’s a sentiment that has been thought by many of us, but he’s offering to help out the careers of Torbay’s young people.
Official figures suggest that one in six young people, 18 or over are currently not in any form of education, training or employment in Britain. And with nothing else to do but search fruitlessly and play poker at a party, their potential is being wasted. The Peter Jones Enterprise Academy at South Devon College is aiming to help young people gain confidence and skills that will benefit them in the workplace.
The Academy offers the UK’s first BTEC Level 2 and 3 qualifications in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, and through workshops and master classes, will teach them all about it. From networking, to presentations, it will hopefully help young people in the area towards a brighter and successful future.
Having opened in September 2011, the level 2 and 3 programmes are being offered to anyone between 16 to 18, and those over the age of 19 too. Speaking about the Academy, Jones had this to say: “Almost one million 16 to 24 year olds are currently without a job or training place in Britain. This is a huge blow to our economy. Too many bright, ambitious young people never get the chance to gain the skills and confidence to live out their business dreams.”
He goes on to explain his fears that we may a “lost generation” on our hands if opportunities for their progression are not made.
Go to the official South Devon College website for more details.
