Crawley College hosts local employers for inspiring Manor Royal People Conference 

Employers and partners from across the business district were recently brought together for the Manor Royal People Conference, proudly hosted by Crawley College. 

The event, hosted again by the college, on 25 September, has become a highlight in the local business calendar – offering a forum to share ideas on people, skills, and the future of work.   

This year’s programme included sessions on AI in HR and corporate social responsibility, along with an update on the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology (SSIoT), which is set to open later this year.  

Speakers included Steve Sawyer, Executive Director of Manor Royal BID; George Kunnath, Director of Business Intelligence & Technology at Roffey Park Institute; and Daran Bennett, CEO of The RPD Foundation.  

Paul Rolfe, Director of the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology, also shared the latest updates on the SSIoT, a major new regional skills initiative being created in collaboration with Manor Royal and other partners.  

He encouraged employers to get involved with the SSIoT and its partner colleges, highlighting opportunities such as apprenticeships, skills bootcamps, T Level placements, and funding support to help businesses engage.  

Paul said, “We are your community college, and we believe passionately in Crawley and Manor Royal.  

“Our mission is to work alongside local businesses to grow the skills pipeline. Whether it is helping a young person gain their first work placement or co-designing the curriculum of the future, there are many ways to get involved.”  

To learn more about the SSIoT, click here, and to read more about the Manor Royal Business District, click here.