DESPITE record A-levels, too many school and college leavers have poor basic skills, according to a Forum of Private Business survey.
The company, which has hundreds of members in Halton, says that essential skills such as reading and writing, maths, communication skills, and basic IT, are all falling short of the desired standard.
The current labour force was rated as “average” by 68% of small businesses and 18% said it was poor. Only 11% said it was very good.
Small businesses said important personal qualities for potential employees are a willingness to learn, a good work ethic, team-work, and interpersonal skills.
The FPB is now lobbying the Government to produce more employees suitable for small businesses.
