Exceptional results achieved at Stafford Grammar School
Following the exceptional results at A Level last week where 69% of all results were graded at A-B and 48% were A/A, the Year 11 pupils are clearly eager to emulate the success of their older counterparts.
52% of all GCSE grades have been achieved at grade 9-7 and exceeds the high levels achieved in the pre-COVID examination results. Over a third of our pupils achieved 8 or more grades at 7-9. 98% of all grades were achieved at grade 9-4. These results build on the outstanding achievements of the school community this year. The school has been shortlisted in the Independent School of the Year Awards for Best Co-educational School having also been Highly Commended in the Muddy Stilettos Best Schools Awards 2024 and having success in the National Schools Theatre Awards, ISA Young Musician of the Year and National Concert Band Festival.
Headmaster, Nicholas Pietrek, commented “These are exceptional results from exceptional pupils. As a school we pride ourselves in working alongside the pupils to help them fulfil their potential and discover their talents. Today we are celebrating their academic achievements but they enjoy equal levels of success in drama, music and sport. Our small class sizes give us that opportunity to really nurture their abilities and we are looking forward to continuing to work with them into the Sixth Form and help guide them on the exciting journey ahead.”
Stafford Grammar School is an academically selective school and one of the leading schools in the Midlands. Anyone looking to join our excellent Sixth Form is encouraged to look at the opportunities available at Stafford Grammar School.
- Published in Member News
Responding to the King’s Speech
Responding to today’s King’s Speech, Rachel Laver, CEO of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce said:
“The King’s Speech has unveiled an ambitious and comprehensive agenda that will undoubtedly impact businesses and communities across the country. Here in Staffordshire, the proposed measures hold significant promise for our members, offering both opportunities and challenges that we at the Chambers are here to help and support with.
The government’s pledge to “get Britain building” by reforming planning procedures to accelerate housebuilding is a crucial step forward. For Staffordshire, this could mean a surge in construction projects, boosting the local economy and creating jobs. Our construction sector stands to benefit immensely, and this growth will likely ripple through the supply chain. However, we already know that the construction sector is facing recruitment challenges, so we will need to continue to work with training providers and employers to address these shortages and continue to promote apprenticeship opportunities. It will also be essential to ensure that these developments are sustainable and well-integrated into our communities, making the most of the green technology that is available. We will also continue to lobby government for investment into brownfield sites which continue to blight local communities but which are often in central locations, ideal for housing if the gap funding can be provided to make the sites viable.
The establishment of publicly-owned Great British Energy to invest in renewable energy is a forward-thinking move that aligns with Staffordshire’s growing green economy. Businesses in our region can expect new opportunities in the renewable energy sector, from manufacturing to research and development with us already having some great growing businesses in the space such as GivEnergy and Stone Group. This initiative will also help local companies meet sustainability targets as low carbon technology becomes more readily available , helping to improve operating efficiencies and enhancing their reputation and appeal in an increasingly eco-conscious market.
The government’s aim to modernise the asylum and immigration system and establish a new Border Security Command is significant for Staffordshire businesses that rely on a diverse and skilled workforce. A more efficient and secure immigration system can help meet the demand for talent in key sectors such as healthcare, technology, and engineering. We welcome this change as we here frequently hear from businesses about how the visa system is delaying their ability to recruit staff and therefore holding back the development of their businesses. This modernisation is crucial to addressing skill shortages that many businesses currently face. However, we remain committed to supporting home grown talent and improving graduate retention in the area by showcasing career opportunities and promoting the amazing businesses we have in Staffordshire.”
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce remains committed to supporting our members through these transitions. We have set out our key campaigning initiatives within our manifesto, which you can read here.
- Published in Uncategorized
A letter to Number 11 Downing Street…
‘Dear Chancellor…..’ – our wish list for the March Budget
We have written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, who will deliver his Spring Budget on Wednesday (6th). With a General Election due to take place in the next ten months, the eyes of the business community will be trained on Mr Hunt when he makes his Budget announcements on Wednesday afternoon.
We have listened to the voices of our Chamber policy forums and listed below are some of the key issues on which we would like the government to act:
Business rates
In its current form, the business rates system is a burden on businesses regardless of ability to pay and it does not make allowances for the major changes that have taken place in the UK economy over the last decade. Many commercial premises in towns and cities lie empty and serve as a reminder of a struggle to compete with online shopping. Indeed, all of our local centres bear witness to this with some faring particularly badly, deterring not only visitors, but also potential investors.
Planning capacity at Local Planning Authorities (LPA)
Local authority planning teams are struggling under the strain of a heavy caseload, new legislation such as Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and challenges with recruitment and retention of planners. This is causing lengthy delays in getting planning application decisions turned around and also in local plans being developed. Faced with continued delays, businesses may choose to pause their growth and expansion plans, keeping the brakes on local economic development. Reform of a creaking planning system is long overdue.
Our British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) colleagues have announced a new partnership with Aviva, which will establish a five-year industry-led programme to increase skills and capacity in Local Planning Authorities (LPA). The programme aims to deliver at least 100 undergraduate and masters’ level qualifications for people entering the planning industry, and for people already working in LPA who need to develop skills for more senior planning roles. In return, at the end of their course of study, the learner must commit to work in a council planning role for at least two years. The BCC is asking businesses from all sectors to contribute to the programme’s fund with the aim of raising at least £3 million. We would like to see the Government commit to matching the £3 million contribution to ensure that LPA can employ newly qualified graduates for at least two years .
Grid capacity.
If we are to create dedicated vehicle charging infrastructure sites across the country, we need to see Government action to commit to ambitious plans for upgrades to the national electricity generation capacity and the distribution grid. This will require swift implementation, to make grid connectivity easier for infrastructure. Upgrades to the grid will also encourage those businesses who have capability of generating their own energy (such as through PV cells), to offload any surplus energy back into the grid. Across Staffordshire, we know of several businesses who are unable to do this, due to current grid limitations.
Transport
Last week saw the Government announcement of plans to deliver around £4.7 billion of funding to local authorities across the Midlands and the north of England, to deliver transport improvement programmes. Here in Staffordshire, we are keen to see progress in improving connectivity on some of our major transport routes. A50/A500 is a key east-west artery, connecting M6 and M1 and a vital transport route for some world recognised brands. A50/A500 is regarded as ‘North Midlands Manufacturing Corridor’ but suffers from congestion at key pinch points, notably Uttoxeter (B5030), Blythe Bridge (A521) and through much of the urban area of North Staffordshire. The A500 connects with the M6 at junction 15 but the layout of this key junction is no longer fit for purpose and in need of significant overhaul. Other transport schemes in the pipeline, include a re-opening of the railway between Leek and Stoke-on-Trent and opening of a new station in Meir. We would welcome greater clarity and financial agreement to progress these transport improvement schemes and a clear commitment to press ahead and improve local transport infrastructure.
VAT registration
We are calling for the VAT registration review to be restarted, with a view to removing the existing cliff edge. Further research conducted by our BCC colleagues found that 43% of respondent businesses with a turnover of less than £85,000, are concerned about growing revenue beyond this, specifically because of the requirement to pay VAT.
Skills and training
Staffordshire Chambers’ of Commerce has been appointed as the designated employer lead for the Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP). Through our work in delivering the LSIP for Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire, we recognise that more needs to be done in developing a skilled workforce and tackling skills shortages. This is why we are calling for a commitment to fund business led LSIP beyond the current 2025 cut off period, with an extension of at least a further three years to 2028. A further three years will provide much needed time to continue our work in bridging the gap between the training needs of our local businesses and the delivery of targeted training and development programmes, to upskill our local workforce.
If you would like to join any of our Chamber policy forums and help to shape and influence our lobbying work, please contact me: declan.riddell@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
- Published in Influence & Network
Stoke on Trent College partner with Port Vale Football Club to launch range of new initiatives – including unique sport course
The partnership forms part of a longstanding relationship between the two organisations and includes various joint initiatives including a new course offer designed to raise opportunities for young people in sport, providing the unique ability to gain a qualification alongside developing footballing skills with a professional club.
To celebrate the partnership, students from the college were joined by College Principal and CEO Lisa Capper MBE, their course leaders and Owner of Port Vale Carol Shanahan attended an exclusive launch event – discussing the new course, their hopes, plans and future ambitions.
As part of the new offer, learners will benefit from the ability to compete at a high level, supporting progression in football alongside their academic qualifications. A fantastic example of this, is the recent success of student Tom Beeby who has been selected for the England Colleges Team. A brilliant and very special opportunity for Tom, the College and Port Vale.
Lisa Capper MBE, CEO and Principal of Stoke on Trent College said: “It was fantastic to be able to officially launch our new offer to provide the education for the team at Port Vale and celebrate the opportunities this brings for young people in Stoke-on-Trent. We are very excited about the prospects for all of the team and Tom’s recent success. With our shared values, the partnership reaches far beyond the football academy and out into community provision – such as healthy eating sessions with the Hubb Foundation, adult learning opportunities and how we will work together to support the Burslem community.”
Students and staff from the College’s Foundation Department also work in close collaboration with Port Vale Football Club, giving a range of learners the opportunity to assist Port Vale on a weekly basis by volunteering each and every Friday. The learners take on a wide range of roles including maintenance and refurbishment duties around the stadium, they also assist on matchdays throughout the season. This unique experience gives learners hands on experience whilst also developing communication skills, confidence and teamwork.
To cement the partnership, a Port Vale FC football was signed by Lisa Capper MBE, CEO and Principal of Stoke on Trent College and Carol Shanahan OBE, Chair and Owner of Port Vale Football Club.
Carol Shanahan OBE, Chair and Owner at Port Vale Football Club said: “We’re delighted to officially launch the partnership between Port Vale and Stoke on Trent College. Our Education Squad programme provides 16 – 18-year-olds a fantastic college education whilst offering professional football training at our club’s facilities where they can grow not only as players but also people.
I’m extremely excited about this partnership and our combined efforts will ensure that all of our programmes, including our adult courses, will continue to grow”.
For more information, visit: www.stokecollege.ac.uk
- Published in Uncategorized
Potters’ Club and Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Forge Powerful Partnership to Enhance Member Benefits
In a landmark collaboration, two pillars of the Staffordshire business community, Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce and the prestigious Potters’ Club, have joined forces to offer an exclusive corporate membership opportunity to Chamber members.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, the region’s leading business support organisation representing a diverse network of 1000 plus member companies, has partnered with the Potters’ Club, renowned since its establishment in 1951 as the foremost members’ club and fine dining restaurant in the region.
Under this exciting alliance, Staffordshire Chamber members will receive a complimentary Potters’ Club membership. This collaboration aims to add to the raft of valuable benefits available to Chamber members, by providing them with access to the unparalleled facilities and exceptional dining experiences offered by the Potters’ Club.
Margaret Michell, President of the Potters’ Club and former President of Staffordshire Chambers, said: “This is a fantastic collaboration for both organisations and for all members. I know first-hand the benefits of Chamber membership, and I love the fantastic facilities and food offered by the Potters’ Club. I am certain that Chamber members will appreciate this valuable addition to the benefits of their Chamber membership, and this unique co-operation will allow a new group of members to discover our excellent facilities.”
Chris Plant, Deputy CEO of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “This partnership underscores our commitment to providing unparalleled value and opportunities for our members. The combination of the Chamber’s extensive business support and the Potters’ Club’s premium facilities creates a synergy that will undoubtedly contribute to the success of our local business community.”
Staffordshire Chamber members can now enjoy access to the Potters’ Club facilities, allowing up to 10 members of each company to utilise the Club for remote working spaces, business meetings, or leisurely lunches, as well as for social and family meals and events. Members can simply provide their name and business name at The Potters’ Club reception.
- Published in News
Sara’s Blog: Businesses still struggling with net zero & my last AGM and thanks to Kate!
It is quite concerning that as the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 28) in Dubai gets underway, a survey of 1,000 businesses – mostly SMEs – by the British Chambers of Commerce Insights Unit shows 40% of companies do not know any details about the UK’s net zero target.
- 7% are not aware of the UK government’s target at all, while 33% are aware but know no details. Last year 13% were not aware, and 48% had no details.
- There is business uncertainty about the impact of the UK’s net-zero policy changes announced in September. Around a quarter (24%) say the postponement of various targets will have a negative impact, while a third (31%) say the postponement will have a positive effect on their business.
- Around a quarter (24%) of firms report some form of exposure to severe weather events.
Over 1,000 businesses were surveyed for the research, with 96% of respondents SMEs. Similar research last year showed 61% of firms either not aware or having limited knowledge of the Government’s targets.
It’s hardly a surprise that businesses are confused when saving electoral seats seems to have taken priority over saving the planet. Look how the Conservatives narrowly held Uxbridge in the recent by-election, against a run of crushing reversals, solely due to their opposition to the expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).
And with the PM, Foreign Secretary and the King and countless other delegates all travelling to the summit on separate private jets it does make you wonder how we will ever achieve net zero.
There is a huge challenge ahead to raise awareness in the business community about the UK’s 2050 net-zero target. Many firms are simply unaware of it or have only a cursory understanding.
Business must be at the heart of tackling climate change. Staffordshire Chambers works hard to improve understanding among our members, but companies need clear leadership from politicians.
Chambers of Commerce and businesses need a consistent net-zero framework that is clearly explained to them. The transition to net zero provides businesses with huge opportunities to grow and diversify. But awareness is key.
From flooding to heatwaves, a significant number of companies are seeing severe weather have a real impact on their business. Standing still on tackling climate change is no longer an option.
We would like to see three outcomes from COP28. We need clarity of frameworks to drive action. We need to see action to prepare for increasing exposure to severe weather events around the world. And finally, we want to see more support for the innovation and expansion of green technologies.
We always strive to set an example at Staffordshire Chambers and we have some exciting news around reporting on our carbon use. More to follow on that in next week’s blog!
In the meantime if you want to know more about net zero or have issues around how it is affecting your business please contact our policy advisor Declan Riddell: declan.riddell@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
AGM
Yesterday was the 74th AGM of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce. It was also my 12th and last AGM as CEO.
It’s always a real pleasure to hear a recap of the Chambers’ activities over the previous year and reflect on just how much we have achieved.
The AGM also marked the end of term of office for the Staffordshire Chambers President Kate Beardmore. Kate has led the Chambers’ board through an extremely challenging period. Starting at the tail end of the pandemic Kate probably thought the only way was up. I’ve no need to reiterate what the past 18 months have brought us, and we all know the immense pressure felt by business and households.
However, having Kate around for the past two years has made it a lot easier. Always cheerful and with time for everyone, Kate’s knowledge of business and charity and her passion for the role and for Stoke and Staffordshire is obvious. Her heart and mind are openly set on making Staffordshire better so that every single person living here benefits.
Kate hands over the presidency to Steve Timmis who shares Kate’s passion and I know there could not be a safer pair of hands than his to take Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce forward.
We also have two new presidents for Stafford and Staffordshire Moorlands in Geoff Barton and Tom Wilkinson.
There are so many of you who freely give of your time to serve on our board, council, local area boards and council. A big thank you to you all. That is what makes us a truly democratic member led organisation and that makes me humbled and proud.
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222, call the Business Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
- Published in News
Sara’s Blog: Inflation worries ease and your input to the national quarterly economic survey
This week’s news that UK inflation fell sharply in October to its lowest rate in two years at 4.6% down from 6.7% the previous month, is encouraging. However, the reality for consumers is that prices are still worryingly high, affecting spending and hitting just about every business.
The government says its pledge to halve inflation by end of the year has been met early. But there is a limit to how much credit ministers can take for the fall as energy prices continue to fall from their record highs of last winter.
Economists have said the main reason inflation has fallen from its peak of 11.1% in October 2022 is due to a fall this month in the energy price cap, which limits what suppliers can charge consumers per unit of energy. They also note the Bank of England’s decision to raise interest rates, in a bid to cool demand in the UK economy and slow price rises. Rates are currently at 5.25%, a 15-year high, which has pushed up mortgage costs but also led to higher savings rates.
The data shows prices in the production sector continue to fall with input producer price inflation (PPI) now at –2.6%. The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Survey to which many of our members contribute, has been showing a fall in the number of firms expecting their prices to rise for the past five quarters.
Despite that, many firms are still struggling to invest, as they face the challenges of high interest rates, skills shortages and difficult trading conditions.
Next week’s Autumn Statement is an opportunity for the government to outline a clear strategy for growth. My previous blog was all about how Chambers of Commerce are calling for action from the Chancellor on planning, the energy grid, full expensing, business rates and occupational health.
Movement on these crucial issues can provide a springboard for business investment which will be the cornerstone of sustainable economic growth.
So, it is timely that Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce’s Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) is now open for responses.
The QES is the largest and most representative independent business survey of its kind in the UK and is closely watched by policymakers such as the Treasury, the Bank of England and the Office of Budget Responsibility whilst attracting a significant amount of media attention. Results are collated and fed into the BCC survey, and we really want to keep up our above average representative sample of how our local businesses are performing and an indication of future outlook. Surveys can be completed anonymously if you wish to, and the closing date is 5pm on Friday 24th November.
It would be greatly appreciated if you could add your input. It only takes a couple of minutes to complete the survey which you can find at this link: https://forms.office.com/e/tUmdeV965u
I would also be grateful if you could please forward the survey link to your business contacts and encourage them to take part.
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222, call the Business Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
- Published in News
Domestic Abuse Workplace Champions
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce are working with the Staffordshire Police, Crime and Fire Commissioner to support businesses across the region by offering free Domestic Abuse Workplace Champions training.
These Champions will get training to help to spot the signs of domestic abuse in the workplace and act as a confidential and supportive figure, being able to signpost to help and advice.
The dates of the next sessions are as follows:-
11 October 2023 – 09:30am until 16:00pm – This session is face to face in Stoke
16/17 November 2023 – 10:00am until 13:00 – This session is online and delegates must attend both dates.
7/8 December 2023 – 10:00am until 13:00 – This session is online and delegates must attend both dates.
If you are interested in being involved – contact Kelly.edwards@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
- Published in News
Sara’s Blog: New trade agreements with Australia and New Zealand and Volunteers’ Week
The Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement and the New Zealand-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement came into force on 31st May with the promise of fewer tariffs (on more than 99% of Australian goods exported to the UK and on all UK goods to Australia). The aim is to cut red tape and make it easier for UK citizens to live and work ‘down under’ and in NZ. For UK firms exporting green goods and services to New Zealand, the agreement offers world leading terms.
It is hoped that this will increase bilateral trade with Australia by 53% and New Zealand by 59% although there are concerns that this will be £2.3bn p.a. by 2035 which is only 0.08% of GDP. Trade between the UK and Australia was worth £15.1bn in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2022, while UK trade with New Zealand was worth £2.5bn in the same period.
It is new era of international trade as these are the UK’s first post-Brexit deals to come into force and they come just weeks after the UK concluded negotiations to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a free trade area worth £9tn.
Of course, the success of any free trade agreement comes down to whether businesses use it and across the UK only 10% of firms are currently exporting. If we are to realise the UK’s ambition to be at the forefront of the continuing revolution in life sciences, digital services and green innovation we must look to trade more.
A recent British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) survey found almost a quarter of firms (23%) said finding a business partner or distributor overseas would encourage them to either start exporting or export more.
There are strong Chambers of Commerce in both Australia and New Zealand that are affiliated to the BCC, and we will be working with them to get the most from these trade deals for all our economies.
Having those contacts, that local market understanding and full recognition of the rules and procedures that apply in a destination country can make all the difference between success and failure.
If you are thinking about selling goods and services to New Zealand and Australia now is a good time to take the plunge.
For help and advice on exporting to Australia and New Zealand or any other countries, contact the team at the Chamber: exportmailbox@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
Volunteers’ Week 2023
2023 marks the 39th year of Volunteers’ Week (1-7th June), as Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce joins thousands of charities and voluntary organisations recognising the contribution volunteers make across the UK. This year’s theme of ‘Celebrate and Inspire’ aims to encourage people to be the change that we want to see and get involved in volunteering in whatever way works for them.
The contribution of volunteers is often unseen, visible only through the incredible impact of their volunteering, so taking the time during Volunteers’ Week to celebrate their efforts and all they contribute to our local communities, the voluntary sector and society, has never been more important.
Staffordshire businesses have a long tradition of putting back into the communities in which they are based through their charitable actions and by encouraging employees to volunteer, be that for a few hours a month or on a more regular basis.
Our local charities, hospitals, schools, and community groups simply could not operate at the level they do without the enormous contribution from volunteers.
And it’s not just the recipients that benefit from volunteering. It is a proven fact that those who volunteer become better team workers and have greater job satisfaction in turn boosting retention and enhancing reputation both as an employer and a socially responsible organisation.
If you would like to get more of your employees involved in volunteering, we can help put you in touch with local organisations and charities that are always looking for willing volunteers.
Contact us via the details below and for more information on Volunteers’ Week click here:
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222 or call the Stoke and Staffs Growth Hub Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
- Published in News
