As the Prime Minister said in his recent speech. ‘Life sciences is a jewel in the crown of our economy. It has consistently shown stronger growth than the UK as a whole.  It accounts for 165,000 UK jobs and it totals over £50 billion in turnover. But the importance of life sciences isn’t just about its size, it’s about its nature.’

Reflecting back on the last year and thinking about our achievements I believe that we have made a good start on getting the right direction in place. I would like to thank you for your participation, for sharing your ideas  and for your commitment. With your help, we have responded to the Government’s Growth Review by clearly setting out our priorities for a new skills-based environment for the life sciences. Together we have defined a clear focus on skills signals, kite marking, Apprenticeships and placements. And we have already achieved a significant landmark by launching our first life sciences foundation degree as part of the new Higher programme.

In the New Year we will be moving forward, asking employers from across the Sector to show their support by employing an apprentice or by agreeing the syllabus for a training programme for SME’s.  By creating and supporting this new skills environment, we will secure a sustainable future for life sciences in the UK.

I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.