PSS early careers data collection returns in September

PSS’s annual early careers data collection for 2025/26 will open on 01 September, and members are encouraged to start preparing their information now.

The annual return helps build a clearer picture of how UK ports are attracting and developing future talent through apprenticeships, graduate programmes, work experience, T Level industry placements, internships, and other early careers pathways.

The first data collection, undertaken last year for 2024/25, established an important baseline for the sector, providing valuable insight into the scale and breadth of early careers activity across participating member ports. This year’s return will build on that baseline, enabling PSS to identify trends over time and strengthen the evidence base that supports the sector.

The information collected helps PSS to:

• Measure progress in early careers activity across the port sector.
• Identify opportunities to share good practice between members.
• Identify where further support or resources may be needed.
• Provide robust evidence to support discussions with government and other stakeholders on future skills needs.

Members are encouraged to begin gathering their information now so they are ready when the data collection opens. Information requested will include:

• Apprenticeships.
• Graduate programmes.
• Work experience.
• T Level industry placements.
• Internships.

The data collection spreadsheet, guidance notes, and submission deadline will be shared when the collection opens in September.

Every response helps build a stronger understanding of early careers across the UK port sector and supports PSS’s work to champion the skills needed for the future.

The Early Careers Headline Data Report 2025, reflecting activity during 2024/25, can be viewed below.