By Stuart Chandler, Commercial Director at BPP International Finance.

Education plays a vital role in shaping Guernsey’s future, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle.

 

To attract and retain talent, we need to address other critical areas—travel links, infrastructure, housing, and hospitality. Without significant investment in these areas, even the best educational system won’t be enough to secure the island’s long-term success. While the rising costs of university education make staying in Guernsey more appealing for students, we need to give young people more reasons to remain; affordable housing, vibrant nightlife, and meaningful post-school employment are essential.

So, the question is: How do we train the people who choose to stay in, or come to, Guernsey?

Shifting the Focus of Education

There’s a growing need to rethink our education system. Currently, we place too much value on degrees—pieces of paper that, for many, may not be the only route to success. I speak from experience.

Despite not having a degree, I became a qualified accountant and earned a postgraduate qualification in professional education. Has the lack of a degree ever been an obstacle to my education or career? Years ago, perhaps, but today, it’s unlikely.

The world of work has shifted, and so should our approach to training the next generation.

For example, financial services in Guernsey offer fantastic opportunities for school leavers to gain practical experience while pursuing professional qualifications. Why not encourage young people to enter these sectors, get qualified as lawyers, accountants, or governance professionals, and later explore secondments or sabbaticals to travel? This way, they avoid hefty student debt and gain valuable, transferable skills that can benefit the island’s economy.

A Broader Perspective

My own training in the Big 4 included what was known as an “out-of-the-box” experience—a non-Guernsey or non-audit period designed to broaden perspectives. It helped me understand global industries and appreciate the opportunities Guernsey offers. We don’t need to send every young person off-island for years to achieve this broader perspective. We can build experiences into their professional development without the long-term burden of debt.

Tackling the Skills Gap

Guernsey is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family, but it’s not without challenges—many of which are tied to our education system.

How can we better structure education to develop talent earlier? How can we equip our young people with the skills they need to succeed in tomorrow’s workplace?

The current debate around tax changes, including the potential introduction of GST, underscores the urgency of these issues. The skills gap is real, and solving it is crucial for Guernsey’s future. As we look ahead, it’s clear that education alone won’t be enough. We need a holistic approach that supports not only learning but also the broader aspects of living and working on our island.

By investing in infrastructure, housing, and the overall quality of life, we can create an environment where talent thrives and Guernsey remains competitive on the global stage