Sector Skills Council Announce New Guide for Work – Based Progression Routes

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After a two year project initiated by the national Learning and Skills Council (LSC), the decision was taken by the University Vocational Awards Council to produce the comprehensive guide, which aims to offer more opportunities in higher education for “non-traditional” learners.

SkillsActive, the Sector Skills Council (SSC) worked alongside the LSC to create a thorough proposal which secured three key partnerships with progressive universities. The project reflects the government’s objectives which aim to increase the participation of higher education by 50% by 2010. It is hoped that the proposed expansion will cater for the demands of employers, the needs of the economy, and future students.

The Potential

Both SkillsActive and the LSC have acknowledged the potential of vocational training for employers in an advanced and post-industrial economy. With apprentices welcoming education, the LSC hope this will help to enrich and expand a skilled workforce by encouraging well structured courses and coherent progression routes.

Steve Mitchell, SkillsActive Workforce Manager said, “Apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain much valued vocational experience. The transition into higher education in recent years has been difficult for many young people.”

“However,” he continued, “this new report which aims to build a bridge between the two pathways provides a valuable resource for any vocational training provider, higher education institution, further education college or employer. For the first time employers will meet graduates with academic qualifications and the industry skills needed to improve and professionalize the sector. Both employers and employees will benefit from this exciting partnership.”

SkillsActive is the SSC for Sports and Recreation, Health and Fitness, Playwork, The Outdoors and the Caravan industries. The employer led organisation aims to tackle the skills and productivity needs of their sector throughout the UK and is currently developing a Sector Skills Agreement for Active Leisure and Learning Sector which will define the needs for employers.

Kavita Trivedi

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