Introduction

This autumn, our Acting Chief Executive and Director of Product Strategy visited Beijing, China, to discuss specific Skills and Education Group qualifications that will empower students worldwide.

In collaboration with UK Awards and Seed International, we aim to bridge educational gaps and provide Chinese students with enhanced skills and knowledge. This aligns with China’s focus on increasing skills development within its education system to secure its future workforce and sustain economic growth.

This venture marks a significant step forward in realising our goal of strengthening our awarding offer internationally, laying the groundwork for exciting partnerships and collaborations.

Key Highlights of the Trip

While in Beijing, our visit was enriched by a visit to one of the seven wonders of the world the iconic Great Wall of China, the traditional Hutong alleys and the Temple of Heaven. These visits allowed us to see how China seamlessly blends its traditions with the present.

The local cuisine involved delicious flavours of Peking Duck and the warmth of a Chinese Hotpot, all eaten with the mastery of chopsticks! And, of course, no trip to Beijing would be complete without sipping fragrant rose and jasmine tea, the quintessential flavours of the city.

Sharing these unforgettable moments with our partners from Seed International deepened our connection and understanding of Chinese culture. This cultural exchange reinforced our shared commitment to making education accessible and relevant across diverse communities. This mission lies at the heart of both Skills and Education Group and Seed International.

Meetings and Partnerships

Our visit focused on a series of productive discussions with Seed International and the British Embassy. These meetings weren’t just formalities; they created the foundation for future planning and collaborations with wider UK-based businesses where we can offer shared delivery, educational visits and work experience opportunities for Chinese students who will study Skills and Education Group qualifications.

Further discussions with the British Embassy centred around

• comparing curricula that are offered in the UK and China

• the adaptation of these qualifications to fit into China’s education system

• Possible partnerships and exchanges with UK employers and educational establishments to facilitate the competence of skill delivery within the Chinese education system teacher exchange

Insights into the Chinese Education System

The current Chinese education system is a dynamic mix of tradition and innovation. Our meetings with Seed International highlighted resilient and adaptive educational models in China. Following meetings with the British Embassy, we observed the importance of the dynamic educational policies relating to Technical and Vocational Education (TVET) in addressing the evolving demands of the skilled job market and the role that our international qualifications can have in facilitating these developing skills.

Potential Impact of the Trip

Our trip to China is more than a one-off. It marks a significant step in our partnership with Seed International and reinforces our commitment to expanding our global reach. By equipping individuals with the essential qualifications and skills, we’re contributing to China’s economic growth and fostering global social mobility.

The Role of Skills and Education Group Awards and UK Awards

By partnering with Seed International and navigating new territories (including China), we are strengthening the impact and relevance of our vocational qualifications internationally.

This trip provided us with the knowledge to identify essential skills gaps within the Chinese economy. This allows us to equip international learners with the skills and knowledge for their growing economy and communities.

Conclusion

The trip to China was enlightening and it allowed us to have in-depth meetings, planning and discussions with Seed International as a testament to our commitment to supporting and nurturing TVET education in China.

As we look forward to our future partnership work, stay tuned for updates as we continue to work closely with Seed International and this exciting journey of qualification launch in China.