Minister for Transformation and Local MP Visit Peterborough College’s Jobsmart Provision to Strengthen Employment Pathways

Following Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Liz Kendall’s recent visit to Peterborough College, which focused on the government’s ‘Get Britain Working’ White Paper, we were pleased to welcome Andrew Western MP, Minister for Transformation, and Andrew Pakes, MP for Peterborough, to see first-hand how Jobsmart is supporting local people into employment.

Jobsmart at Peterborough College, part of Inspire Education Group (IEG), plays a key role in delivering skills-led training and helping unemployed individuals gain the qualifications and experience they need for sustainable jobs. With a focus on fully funded courses in construction, security, logistics, and hospitality, as well as tailored employability support, Jobsmart is aligned with the government’s ambition to equip individuals with the skills needed for in-demand sectors.

During the visit, Minister Andrew Western and Andrew Pakes met with learners, staff, and local employers to discuss the challenges and opportunities within the job market. The visit builds on the government’s ‘Back to Work’ plan, which aims to tackle economic inactivity and increase local workforce participation. A representative from Peterborough City Council’s Post-16 and Care Leavers Team also attended, highlighting collaborative support for young people’s employment pathways.

Among the key provisions highlighted during the visit were:

• Sector-Specific Training – Courses such as SIA security training, CSCS construction certification, and HGV driver training address workforce gaps and provide learners with qualifications that lead directly to employment.
• Personalised Support – Learners receive one-to-one CV guidance, interview coaching, and job search strategies, ensuring they are job-ready.
• Collaboration with Employers – By working closely with local businesses and industry partners, Jobsmart ensures training is aligned with real workforce needs, offering direct routes into work.

Speaking on the impact of the visit, Andrew Western MP said:

“Peterborough College is at the heart of its community and Jobsmart is a great example of making sure the next generation of local people have skills they need to succeed in life.

“For too long there has been a rising number of young people who are not participating in education, employment or training, and the college is key to addressing this locally.

“To help Peterborough further, I am delighted that Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority has been selected as one of our eight Youth Guarantee trailblazer areas announced in our Get Britain Working white paper and will share in £45 million of funding.”

Andrew Pakes MP added:

“It was great to bring the Minister to JobSmart to show off the kind of partnerships that will be at the heart of the new Youth Guarantee. The fact Peterborough and Cambridgeshire have been chosen to pilot a new approach to helping young people into education, employment and training is a testament to the work already happening in the city.

"By equipping individuals with practical skills and tailored support, Jobsmart is not only transforming lives but also directly addressing the workforce needs of our local economy. This collaboration between education, employers, and government initiatives like the 'Back to Work' plan is essential for building stronger, more resilient communities here in Peterborough.” 

Cllr Anna Smith said:

“Jobsmart is making a real difference by helping local people gain the skills and qualifications they need to move into meaningful employment. I am proud that we are investing in skills and training that match the needs of businesses across our region. The Combined Authority will work across the skills and employment system, including with services like Jobsmart, to join the dots locally and strengthen support for 18-21-year-olds. By working together with education providers, employers, and government, we can create clear pathways into secure, well-paid jobs—supporting both individuals and our local economy.”