University boosts workplace skill

The university will consult with firms to assess requirements

A university has received £5.6m to set up a unit to help develop degree level skills training in the workplace.

Anglia Ruskin University, with sites in Cambridge and Chelmsford, received the money from the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE).

The HEFCE has also confirmed funds for 1,000 additional student places taking value of the award to more than £10m.

The university must now identify opportunities while consulting and collaborating with employers on needs.

Professor Michael Thorne, Vice Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University, said: "This is one of the largest awards made by HEFCE under this scheme."

The programme will address the needs of existing workforces rather than recruits with the focus on degree level skills.

A university spokesman said: "Benefits to employers include higher levels of motivation, better employee retention, higher levels of customer service, higher turnover and profitability, new ideas and innovation."