Ashley Deane
Co-founder | SkillED Innovation
Designated Safeguard Lead
Accredited IMI Automotive Engineer
14 years experience in FE Colleges
Previous Head of School for Vocational Courses
When he's not educating the youth, he enjoys exploring big hills with his best mate, Rocky the boxer dog. A black belt in martial arts, he also speaks pigeon Spanish, loves travelling the world and plays bass in a band.
Lee Baum
Co-founder | SkillED Innovation
Deputy Safeguard Lead
H&S Officer
Accredited Carpenter and previous Skills Director
12 years experience in FE Colleges
When he's not sharing his vocational skills, he enjoys building camper vans and taking his own on adventures in the Lakes. He loves paddle boarding, building massive Lego structures with his children and playing with a CNC machine.
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Co-founder of SkillED Innovation, brings 15 years of experience in education, rising to Head of School and spearheading innovative projects to enhance student outcomes. Passionate about reducing NEET numbers, Ashley has dedicated his career to aligning education with industry demands, ensuring young people are equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in further education and employment.
With a track record of leading transformative initiatives with employer led green skills training programmes, Ashley combines strategic expertise with a deep commitment to supporting young people. By fostering collaboration between educators and employers, Ashley ensures SkillED Innovation delivers a curriculum that’s practical, engaging and tailored to the needs of a rapidly changing job market.
Driven by a mission to empower young people and create pathways to success, Ashley is leading SkillED Innovation in shaping brighter futures through cutting-edge education and vocational training.
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Co-founder of SkillED Innovation, is an experienced education leader and former Skills Director with a strong background in aligning educational programmes to the evolving demands of the job market. Having worked closely with employers across industries, Lee ensures that training equips students with the skills and qualifications most needed in today’s workforce.
Lee’s expertise lies in understanding how shifts in technology and the economy impact industry needs and translating those insights into practical, relevant training. By forging strong partnerships with employers and educational institutions, Lee ensures that SkillED Innovation’s curriculum aligns with real-world demands, preparing students for further education, apprenticeships and meaningful careers.
Passionate about bridging the gap between education and employment, Lee plays a key role in shaping SkillED Innovation’s mission to empower young people and reduce NEET numbers, contributing to a skilled and adaptable workforce for the future.
Our Why?
With over 26 years of combined experience in further education, we have witnessed first-hand the challenges facing young people today. These challenges have driven us to create SkillED Innovation, addressing the critical gaps that hinder students’ progress and future success. Some of the key reasons behind our mission include:
NEET Rates
Over 10% of young people aged 16 to 18 in the UK are classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), with rates rising even higher in regions such as County Durham.
Gap from school to FE or Apprenticeships
Many school leavers lack the fundamental skills needed to access further education or apprenticeships, leaving entry requirements for even the most basic levels out of reach.
Students in Core Subjects
English and maths are critical gateways to further education and employment opportunities, yet thousands of students leave school without passing these essential subjects, often unaware of the profound impact this can have on their future prospects.
Retention in Apprenticeships
Apprenticeship retention rates are heavily influenced by a lack of preparedness in essential skills and workplace behaviours.
The Need to Empower Students
Research consistently demonstrates that project-based, hands-on learning enhances student engagement and motivation. By emphasising tangible outcomes and real-world applications, students can clearly see the relevance of their education, fostering a strong sense of purpose and direction.
Addressing Regional Challenges
In areas like the North East, where NEET rates and skills shortages are particularly acute, the ability for young people to possess the base level skills to meet the opportunities available are needed to build brighter futures, contributing to local economic growth and social mobility.