The resources, which are currently being trialed throughout the Midlands and the South West, are the product of close cooperation between both employers and GoSkills, the Sector Skills Council (SSC) for passenger transport. Primarily acting in a consultative manner, employers have contributed to the development process through writing the materials that are to be used by learners and learning providers alike.

Meeting Needs

Road passenger transport employs approximately 700,000 people across the UK. This workforce encompasses a wide array of industries and professions, including taxi transport and private hire, bus and coach travel, as well as driving instructors. It is an industry that is subjected to exacting standards. With this in mind GoSkills have launched several new teaching resources.

The resource has been designed specifically to meet the needs of employers in road passenger transport as well as training providers. Employers will be able to benefit from the new initial screening and assessment tool which will help identify any skills shortages in the workforce, while training providers will be supported by a comprehensive series of guidance materials. This, it is envisioned, will help to assess individuals" skill levels, which will, in turn, help to identify the appropriate training needed.

Relevant Skills Always Welcome

Speaking at the east midlands launch event, Peter Huntington, chief executive of GoSkills, said: "I am delighted hat we are able to provided resources designed by the industry for the industry. Literacy, numeracy and communication skills are high priorities for the sector, not just to aid business effectiveness but also to support individuals in their personal development. GoSkills is committed to ensuring that employers have a full package of resources available to them that are relevant and fit for purpose."

Over 150 delegates attended the launch event from the road passenger transport industry, including employers, Union Learning Representatives and Trainers. Ten employers have already committed to participating in the trial and it is anticipates that over 1,000 individuals will take part. Founded in December 2003 GoSkills was recommended to receive its license to operate as the skills council for passenger transport by the sector skills development agency in October 2004. It was charged with the mission to be the leading authority on skills issues for the passenger transport sector.

Michael de la Fuente

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