17.12.2024 | Recruitment

With logistics introduced into a new business course at Suffolk New College in November 2024, Becky Crevald of A&S Recruitment explains more about her role in its inception and the need for such a development.

She explains: “With A&S Recruitment, an industry partner with Suffolk New College, I was introduced to Abi Thompson, Director of Creative Arts, Enterprise and Digital and entered into discussions around topics, roles, and employer needs from potential future talent. After much hard work from Abi and her college colleagues, I am delighted that the logistics business module went live in November.”

Industry professionals have previously been invited to share insights on course content and identify skills gaps. The Suffolk College New College course also works with employers to deliver lessons, visit their workspaces, and complete work placements.

Becky continues, “Integrating logistics into the education curriculum is vital, especially as the industry faces critical skills shortages.”

By introducing logistics education early, schools and colleges can:

• Expand Career Awareness: Many young people and their parents view logistics narrowly, associating it with manual labour. Curricula highlighting the sector’s diverse roles—from IT and data analysis to sustainability strategy—can attract a new generation of professionals.

• Meet Industry Needs: Courses tailored to logistics can equip students with critical skills in technology, sustainability, and leadership, addressing gaps identified by initiatives like the Logistics and Supply Chain Skills Group (LSCSG) Work Programme 2024–2027.

“Working with Suffolk New College on this new course has been hugely rewarding. Seeing firsthand the recruitment needs of clients, the industry’s future success lies in the talent that is brought on, and today’s younger generation needs to have access to the skills required by the sector.”

Incorporating logistics into the education system is a win-win for students and the industry. It addresses critical workforce challenges, equips young people with future-ready skills, and supports economic growth. Logistics education can transform a sector pivotal to global commerce by promoting diversity, sustainability, and technological competence. Becky adds: “Now is the time to act to secure the sector’s future.”

If your company is based in the logistics sector and you would like to learn more about becoming an industry partner at Suffolk New College, please get in touch with Suffolk New College or Becky becky@aandsrecruitment.com