Employer Partnerships at the RNN Group
At the RNN Group, collaboration with employers plays a vital role in shaping the educational experiences of learners and ensuring they are prepared for the modern workplace.
By building strong partnerships with local, regional, and national businesses, the Group creates meaningful opportunities for students while helping employers develop a skilled and capable workforce for the future.
Why Employer Partnerships matter
Employer partnerships allow the RNN Group to align its curriculum with real industry needs. By working directly with businesses, the Group can ensure that learners gain the knowledge, skills, and behaviours that employers are actively seeking. This collaboration helps bridge the gap between education and employment, making graduates more work-ready and improving career prospects.
Through these partnerships, employers can also support the development of training programmes, provide specialist equipment or resources, and offer valuable insight into industry trends. In return, employers gain access to a pipeline of motivated learners who are developing the skills needed in their sector.
Employer Academies: Connecting industry and education
One of the most impactful initiatives within the RNN Group’s partnership strategy is the Employer Academy programme. Employer Academies bring together educators, learners, and businesses to create long-term collaborations focused on specific industries.
Through these academies, employers help influence curriculum design and delivery, ensuring that students develop sector-specific skills that match industry expectations. Employers can also take part in activities such as mentoring, workshops, guest lectures, and industry placements. These experiences give learners valuable real-world exposure and insight into their chosen career paths.
For businesses, becoming an Employer Academy partner provides the opportunity to engage directly with potential future employees, while also promoting their organisation and supporting the development of local talent.
Creating opportunities through events and engagement
The RNN Group regularly hosts employer-focused events and initiatives that strengthen relationships with businesses and encourage ongoing collaboration.
These include:
- Employer Forums and Business Breakfasts, which allow employers to share their workforce needs and discuss industry trends with the Group.
- Webinars and information sessions, providing updates on training opportunities and new courses available to employers and their staff.
- Employer newsletters, launched to keep partners informed about developments across the Group and opportunities for collaboration.
These initiatives ensure that employers remain actively involved in shaping the educational experience of learners.
Supporting employability through skills development
Another key initiative supported by employer partners is the Skills for Employment programme. This programme focuses on developing transferable skills – often referred to as “power skills”- such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
By working closely with employers, the RNN Group ensures that these essential skills are embedded into learning programmes. Learners can gain digital certificates for completing activities and demonstrating their abilities, allowing them to showcase their skills to potential employers.
Employer partners also contribute to career-focused events such as National Apprenticeship Week, induction activities, and industry talks, giving students a deeper understanding of workplace expectations.
Recognising employer contributions
To celebrate the valuable contributions of its partners, the RNN Group has introduced Employer Awards. These awards recognise businesses that demonstrate exceptional commitment to supporting learners and apprentices. Our main employer award evening is happening on 23rd April at The Wharncliffe Restaurant which we cannot wait for!
By highlighting these partnerships, the Group not only celebrates success but also encourages more organisations to collaborate and invest in developing the future workforce.
Building a stronger future together
Employer partnerships are at the heart of the RNN Group’s mission to deliver high-quality education and training. By working closely with businesses, the Group can continuously adapt its curriculum, provide valuable industry experiences for learners, and support regional economic growth.
As these partnerships continue to grow, they will play an increasingly important role in shaping the next generation of skilled professionals – ensuring that learners leave the RNN Group confident, capable, and ready to succeed in their chosen careers.