Is our education system fit for UK plc? asks Derby Business School

The University of Derby hosted an evening of influential debate and discussion last week on the current state of the UK education system and their visions for the future.

The debate took place at the University’s Kedleston Road campus last Wednesday, (October 7), and was the second in a series of debates being run with leading UK law firm Freeths LLP.

Speakers during the evening included Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Derby, Stuart Garner, CEO and owner of Norton Motorcycles, and Mike Copestake, Partner at Freeths LLP.

During the debate, Kathryn Mitchell spoke about the need for employers to offer work placements not only for practical experience but also to hone skills like mental agility, eloquence and communication.

Professor Mitchell said: “The Freeths Debate Series provided a free and open forum for students, academics and the business community to have an inspiring discussion about the education system and its fit for UK business.

“The University will maintain a strong dialogue with employers in the region to ensure that our graduates have the necessary skills and to further develop new and existing work placement opportunities for Derby students.”

Mike Copestake added: “In a technologically rich city like Derby, the future of education in the 21st Century is something that is of vital importance for the prosperity of everybody.

“We were fortunate to hear two superb presenters in Professor Kathryn Mitchell and Stuart Garner who articulated their arguments so clearly and passionately from the academic and vocational points of view that a lively discussion followed with members of the audience.

“We were delighted to host this hugely popular debate with Derby Business School and look forward to hosting the next one in the New Year and many others on matters of local and national importance.”