Schools need to close graduate schools gap, say firms

Half of employers think graduates lack essential workplace skills they need when first hired, according to a report.

Employers say many graduates lack workplace skills

The Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR) say many graduates lack necessary qualities, such as teamwork and problem-solving.

The AGR says these soft skills should be taught in schools and leaving it to universities and employers is too late.

Seamus Searson, general secretary of the Scottish Secondary Teachers’ Association, said schools may need to consider creating modules similar to “The Apprentice” focussing on leadership skills and role play.

Overall, 49 per cent of the 174 AGR members surveyed said “graduates generally do not have the skills expected of them at the point of hiring”, while on average, one in four intake graduates (25 per cent) lack them.

It said secondary school was the best place to learn skills including self-awareness, problem-solving, interpersonal skills and teamwork, while the workplace was suited to managing, deal with conflict and negotiate, while also teaching commercial awareness.

Stephen Isherwood, AGR chief executive, said there needed to be more coordination across schools, universities and businesses.

“By the time students reach university and employment, essential employability skills should be ingrained, so it’s just a matter of refinement. A focus on soft skills will develop better students, more productive employees and more engaged citizens.”

Mr Searson Searson said: “These skills need to be taught right from the start, not just in secondary school.

“But there is such a push to get the academic qualifications that it gets pushed aside.”