Devolution needs a national framework
Graham Hasting-Evans, Chief Executive
| NOCN Group
The UK’s skills system is at a crossroads. Without a clear national strategy, fragmented local approaches risk undermining economic growth and learner mobility. Here's why the government must act now
The UK is entering a decisive phase in shaping its skills system. Devolution promises agility and responsiveness to local needs, but without a strong national framework, it risks creating confusion, duplication, and inefficiency. In a new report from leading skills charity NOCN Group, the international evidence is clear: successful skills systems balance local flexibility with national coherence.
Countries such as Germany and Ireland operate devolved structures within robust national frameworks, ensuring consistency and portability of qualifications. England, by contrast, is devolving skills policy to areas with an average population of just 1.5 million – far smaller than regions in comparable countries. This fragmentation could undermine the very goals devolution seeks to achieve.
Skills do not exist in isolation. They are shaped by commuting patterns, regional industries, and national sector priorities. A coherent approach must link neighbouring areas, enabling collaboration rather than competition. This is not about centralisation but about coordination.
Our recent report calls for urgent action to prevent a patchwork system that disadvantages learners and employers alike. We propose three pillars for reform:
1. A National Skills Strategy
This strategy should set the vision and direction for skills across the UK, aligning with the Industrial Strategy and informed by local priorities. It must encompass the entire education and training system – from new entrants to those seeking to upskill or re-enter employment.
Crucially, this approach must address the growing challenge of NEETs – young people not in education, employment or training. NEET rates are rising, and without interventions we risk creating a generation disconnected from opportunity. An agile but aspirational skills system can re-engage these individuals by offering flexible pathways, targeted support, and clear progression routes to meaningful work. This is both an economic and social imperative, with every disengaged young person representing untapped potential that the UK cannot afford to waste.
2. A UK Skills Standards and Accreditation Body
Consistency is key. This body would ensure occupational standards are high-quality, internationally benchmarked, and portable across regions. In an era of AI, net-zero, and rapid technological change, world-class standards are essential for competitiveness.
3. A UK-wide Skills Framework
This framework would underpin portability and coherence, while allowing Strategic Authorities flexibility to design training tailored to local economies. Regional qualifications should meet a common baseline, ensuring learners can move freely between areas without losing recognition of their skills.
Employer engagement must also be strengthened. Sector-focused councils should operate nationally and locally, ensuring provision reflects real economic needs. Innovation should be incentivised through funding for pilot programmes, with outcomes accredited nationally.
The stakes are high. The UK faces chronic skills gaps, particularly in digital, engineering, and health sectors. Without decisive action, these shortages will constrain growth and productivity. Parliament has an opportunity to lead a transformation that secures our workforce for the future economy.
Devolution offers promise, but only if underpinned by a coherent, coordinated national framework. Let us learn from international best practice and build a system that is agile, inclusive, and fit for the future.
Read the full report and explore detailed recommendations at www.nocn.org.uk/devolution. For further information, contact NOCN Group Marketing Manager Sarah Phillips at [email protected]
