Rachel Nicholls: Reflecting on the White Paper Launch and IEG’s Future

Q: Rachel, what did it mean for IEG to host the White Paper launch?

Rachel Nicholls: “It was an incredible honour for IEG to be selected as the host for this launch. As a city, we face opportunities to re-engage those out of work, upskill individuals and support growing sectors like green technologies and digital industries. At IEG, we are committed to evolving our curriculum, forming partnerships with employers and developing programmes that align with these priorities. The Centre for Green Technology, for example, is already preparing students for careers in sustainable industries.”

Q: How does this connect to the challenges and opportunities faced in Peterborough?

Rachel Nicholls: “The White Paper focuses on tackling unemployment and bridging skills gaps—challenges that resonate strongly in our region. As a city, we face opportunities to re-engage those out of work, upskill individuals, and support growing sectors like green technologies and digital industries. At IEG, we are committed to evolving our curriculum, forming partnerships with employers, and developing programmes that align with these priorities. The Centre for Green Technology, for example, is already preparing students for careers in sustainable industries. This also ties into our recently launched Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Exceptional Strategy.”

Q: How does this align with IEG’s commitment to reducing unemployment?

Rachel Nicholls: “The Get Britain Working White Paper aligns with our focus on ensuring students are ready for employment and addressing gaps in workforce skills. We are working to reconnect individuals with education and training, particularly those furthest from employment. Our collaborations with organisations like the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) and Peterborough City Council are central to delivering targeted programmes that create real pathways back into work. These partnerships are key to tackling local challenges while driving economic and social progress.”

Q: What stood out to you most about the launch of the White Paper?

Rachel Nicholls: “It was the collective effort that truly stood out. The involvement of our students and apprentices stood out as a powerful reminder of why this matters. Their professionalism and enthusiasm reflect the opportunities education creates and the difference it can make. This was a collective effort—bringing together government representatives, employers, and local partners to focus on solutions. It was also a reminder of the importance of collaboration in addressing unemployment and empowering communities. The recognition from major news outlets like the BBC and Channel 4 was a moment of pride for all of us, but it was the people involved that made it exceptional.”

Q: What does this mean for the future of Peterborough and IEG?

Rachel Nicholls: “This is just the beginning. We now have a stronger platform to drive collaboration with employers, policymakers, and partners across the region. As a city, we have the opportunity to support those currently disconnected from education or employment and to create sustainable, long-term solutions. At IEG, we are focused on providing students with the skills and training needed for high-demand sectors and ensuring that no one is left behind. Our partnerships with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) and Peterborough City Council are also key in driving forward developments that meet these needs, such as the Centre for Green Technology.”

Q: Finally, what message do you have for the city, staff, and stakeholders?

Rachel Nicholls: “Thank you. Thank you to everyone who contributed to supporting this launch and making it a success. Your hard work and dedication were on full display and are what made this moment possible. Together, we can build stronger pathways for individuals, reduce unemployment, and ensure a brighter future for our communities. Let’s build on this and continue to lead, inspire and make a difference. The future is bright and I’m excited for what’s to come.”