Enterprise and Education Business Links (EBL)

What is it?
As the name suggests, Education Business Links (EBL) is a programme that focuses on improving links and building relationships between education and business. Each local LSC is responsible for ensuring EBL activity in their area. They do this by supporting the Key Stage 4 requirement for work-related learning as well as broadening the contribution that businesses and employers make to the 14–19 curriculum. This is achieved through local consortia in each of the local LSC areas, which act as a single point of contact to provide a full range of high-quality activities.

Additionally, in 2005/06, schools are receiving £55 million directly from the Department for Education and Skills to support enterprise education. This will contribute to supporting work-related learning in schools. The LSC is also responsible for the funding of the Enterprise Advisory Service, which aims to support schools, colleges and other providers in specifically promoting and encouraging enterprise in the curriculum.

What does this mean for my school?
The EBL programme can support the broader 14–19 curriculum by:

• giving your pupils access to support for work experience
• providing greater opportunities for you to work with employers
• offering professional development placements for teachers in specific business sectors.
• The opportunities offered by education and business partnerships are a key factor in increasing participation in learning post–16, raising attainment of young people, and preparing them for the world of work.