University contributes £230k towards skills development across the West Midlands

The University of Birmingham is contributing £230,000 to support the development of skills across the West Midlands. The University is the first higher education institution to join the scheme run by the West Midlands Combined Authority , The Apprenticeship Levy Transfer Fund , which has already been supported by the BBC, HSBC, Lloyds and other major Birmingham-based businesses. The monies, which form part of the University's unspent apprenticeship levy, will be used to support scores of apprenticeships in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the region. Baljinder Bansal, HR Business Partner at the University, said: "The University of Birmingham has a proud tradition of civic responsibility, so we are thrilled to be part of this scheme, which will give so many people across our region a chance to train in a new profession and develop their skills. We are delighted to be working with West Midlands Mayor Andy Street and the WMCA on this fantastic scheme. We are looking forward to seeing the positive impact that the investment will make to a diverse range of people and SMEs." Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands and former CEO of John Lewis, said: "I am delighted that the University of Birmingham has become the first educational organisation to sign up to our unique apprenticeship levy transfer fund. Their contribution will help change people's lives in the West Midlands by creating new apprenticeship job opportunities and supporting small businesses to expand and upskill their workforce.