In this episode, we dive into the heart of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) to explore why these aren’t just policy buzzwords, but the lifeblood of a thriving Further Education sector. We examine the positive case for strengthening EDI initiatives and discuss why the FE and skills landscape is uniquely positioned to drive social mobility and life-changing results for learners and their communities.
Joining us for the conversation are Ben Blackledge and Tonicha Roberts. Ben is the Chief Executive of Worldskills UK and has a wealth of experience in skills and careers policy. Tonicha is a Forensic Training Manager and Skills Champion who was the first person to represent the UK in the Chemical Laboratory Technology context at WorldSkills events.
Episode Guests
Ben Blackledge is the Chief Executive of WorldSkills UK.
A world-class skills network, WorldSkills UK is focussed on raising standards, championing future skills and empowering young people from all backgrounds.
Before taking up the role of Chief Executive, Ben was previously Deputy Chief Executive of WorldSkills UK, where he was responsible for leading on the UK’s participation in the international WorldSkills and EuroSkills events.
Ben has previously worked in government policy positions focusing on both skills and careers policy. Ben works extensively across our international network and was recently made Chair of WorldSkills Europe, helping to ensure the UK is at the forefront of global developments in skills training.
Tonicha Roberts, Skills Champion, WorldSkills UK
In 2019, Tonicha became the first person to represent the UK in the Chemical Laboratory Technology skill at WorldSkills UK. Her WorldSkills UK journey started soon after completing a Laboratory Technician apprenticeship. Setbacks at college meant she couldn’t follow the traditional university route into forensic science. Although apprenticeships carried a stigma, she was determined to prove herself and ultimately became the first Forensic Scientist in her field without a degree.
As part of Team UK, Tonicha placed fourth in the world, achieving a Medallion of Excellence at international competition, learning to apply her technical knowledge in completely new situations, and building invaluable life skills that have shaped her career. Now, as a Forensic Training Manager in her department, she leads a complex training programme that supports every new forensic hire, tailoring it to a wide range of learning styles, and is being asked to and exploring expansion, an opportunity that stems from the skills WorldSkills UK helped her to develop.
Tonicha became as Skills Champion, WorldSkills UK past competitors who become advocates for skills excellence, as she knows firsthand how transformative these programmes can be. She says ‘WorldSkills UK didn’t just change my professional path – it showed me how powerful skills, mentorship and perseverance can be. I’m proud to share that message and help others realise what they are capable of achieving’.
Resources:
Download the transcript for this episode here.
