Jersey principal: Education key to ageing workforce gap

February 14, 2026 - 23:48

The principal of Highlands College has issued a clear call to action, stating that focused investment in education is the critical key to addressing Jersey's pressing demographic challenges. Jo Terry-Marchant emphasized that with an ageing population and a shrinking workforce, the island's future prosperity depends on strategic political prioritization of skills and lifelong learning.

Terry-Marchant argues that the traditional model of education ending in early adulthood is no longer sufficient. To bridge the growing workforce gap, a system must be created that supports islanders in retraining and upskilling at all stages of their careers. This approach is essential for both filling immediate vacancies in key sectors and building a resilient economy for the long term.

The principal's comments underscore a need for policy that directly links educational provision with economic demand. By equipping people with relevant, modern skills, Jersey can better retain local talent and enhance productivity. This educational focus, she contends, is not merely an option but a fundamental requirement for sustaining public services and maintaining the island's standard of living in the face of significant demographic change. The message to policymakers is clear: securing the future starts in the classroom and the training workshop.