Listen to this story Members can listen to an AI-generated audio version of this article. 1.0x Audio narration uses an AI-generated voice. 0:00 0:00 Become a member to listen to this article Subscribe A skills system that responds to the changing needs of people, employers and local economies is an ambition we can all share. But as greater responsibility for skills moves closer to local communities, we need to think carefully about who that system serves and which institutions are around the table shaping it. I saw why this matters when I recently joined the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC) on a visit to Liverpool Hope University in my constituency. There I met 30-year-old Louis Abernethy, who grew up in Liverpool and now works at King David Primary School. Louis had already spent several years working in education, but without a degree felt his opportunities to progress were limited. Become a member for unlimited access to FE Week Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism on FE and skills, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits. subscribe If you have an account, please login. Sign in