Skills shortage to be debated by businesses

The discussion is set to take place on 6 November at the Guernsey Chamber in St Peter Port

Leaders in business, education and government are getting together to discuss a shortage of skills in Guernsey.

Guernsey Chamber of Commerce said it would host a panel discussion to explore how education, housing and training could shape the island's future workforce.

The chamber said the debate - called Invest in Skills, Reap the Rewards - was intended to address the "critical skills shortage" reported by some businesses.

The discussion is due to take place on 6 November at the Guernsey Chamber in St Peter Port.

'Fast-changing world'

Alice Gill, executive director of the chamber, said: "Our members are already struggling to recruit talent and this challenge will only grow if we don't rethink education, learning and the way we do business.

"We need to provide vibrant post-school opportunities and a strong business environment to attract and retain people."

Danielle Harford-Fox, the principal of Ladies' College, is among those taking part in the panel debate.

"We rank children on their ability to recall information, but we aren't measuring the skills that will truly prepare them for a fast-changing world - skills like collaboration, influence, emotional regulation, and flexibility," she said.

The debate will be moderated by Justin Bellinger, chamber director and former chief executive officer of communications firm Sure Guernsey.