One of the greatest responsibilities I hold as the Member of Parliament for Solihull West & Shirley is helping to ensure that the next generation has the support, opportunities, and direction it needs to succeed. We are fortunate to have a wealth of young talent in our community, but talent alone is not enough. It must be matched with clear, practical routes into further education, employment, and training.
The recent Spending Review makes a number of headline-grabbing pledges. However, beneath the surface, there is cause for concern. Whilst ministers have announced a £2 billion real-terms increase in the schools budget and £2.4 billion annually to rebuild more than 500 schools, there is far too little detail on how young people will be supported beyond the age of sixteen. That omission is troubling.
We cannot build a competitive economy or a fair society without serious investment in post-16 training and apprenticeships. Vocational routes must no longer be treated as second-tier options. They are essential tools for unlocking potential, closing the skills gap, and promoting social mobility.
This is not theory; it is reality here in Solihull. During a recent visit to Solihull College, I spoke with students undertaking apprenticeships in engineering, IT, and healthcare. These young people are gaining more than qualifications – they are gaining confidence, purpose, and independence. Apprenticeships offer a vital combination of earning and learning that too often goes overlooked in national policymaking.
The government has committed to creating 1.3 million training opportunities for 16–19-year-olds. Whilst that figure may appear impressive, the key challenge is ensuring both quality and relevance. Young people need training that links directly to real jobs.
In Solihull and Shirley, we benefit from an outstanding ecosystem of employers who are helping shape this future. From household names such as Jaguar Land Rover and Collins Aerospace, to professional firms like Fieldfisher at Blythe Valley and manufacturers such as Thor Hammer on the Cranmore Estate, our local economy is rich in opportunity. However, too many young people still struggle to access the opportunities on their doorstep. This disconnect must be addressed.
That is why I will shortly be announcing a new date for my constituency jobs fair. This event brings together employers, training providers, and jobseekers – helping to build the connections that drive long-term economic growth and personal ambition. It is a simple but effective way to match talent with opportunity, and I look forward to seeing the impact it can have.
Equally important is the work of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. I recently met with representatives in Westminster, who outlined their ongoing collaboration with schools and local organisations. More than 450 young people in Solihull West & Shirley are currently taking part. The skills they develop – resilience, teamwork, leadership – powerfully complement academic study. My congratulations go to Tudor Grange Academy, which leads locally in participation, and my thanks to all the schools involved.
The Spending Review promises £120 billion in capital investment. However, funding alone does not guarantee results. What matters is how money is spent, who benefits, and whether it delivers lasting change. I will continue to advocate for policies that prioritise outcomes over announcements – and ensure that our young people are never left behind.
