The landscape in education and skills is changing dramatically and anyone considering a career in the finance sector must be prepared to seek new opportunities that might not have been available in the bygone era of business. However, in order for the sector to successfully facilitate this shift, it must move with the times, embrace change, and open up entrance paths in a way that welcomes a diverse, talented and relevant new generation of workers.

Although universities will continue to provide a valuable source of education and training for those wishing to enter the sector, many young people are now weighing up their options as to alternatives that could allow them to progress without amassing large amounts of debt.

The steady increase in the number of people beginning apprenticeships over recent years is encouraging, but worryingly, some businesses plan to reduce the number of apprentices they take on next year. If the number of available apprenticeships were to regress over the next year, the skills picture and the jobs market would be severely tarnished. They must continue to evolve to enable them to stay relevant for businesses in the finance sector.

Liz Field, CEO, FSP