Learners and companies benefit from work-related training

Employers up and down the country are benefiting from highly skilled and motivated staff involved in work-related training, according to a report by Ofsted.

The research by the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills, showed the benefits of work-based learning such as work-placements and apprenticeships. Learners were able to gain good technical skills and knowledge, and work standards required.

The report, ‘Good practice in involving employers in work-related education and training’, highlights that training developed by providers working closely with companies helps employees make greater contributions to the effectiveness of their business.

Christine Gilbert, Ofsted Chief Inspector, said: “Employers, providers and employees all benefit from employer involvement in work-related training. Where employers and providers develop good relationships, learners, trainees and staff are able to develop the skills and confidence to reach their potential and help employers compete more effectively in the marketplace.”

Employers in areas such as manufacturing, construction and retail gained skilled and knowledgeable staff through work related training, and small businesses benefitted from support from specialist training providers.

In one example of work-related learning, Nissan worked very closely with Gateshead College and JobCentre Plus.

They joined forces to design a programme to develop the skills of unemployed people, providing a mix of manufacturing, literacy and numeracy skills. The programme – which recruited several hundred participants – proved to be very successful, with 77% of the participants on one course gaining employment with either Nissan or another linked company.

Twenty-two of the thirty training providers also helped employers to get public funding for training.

Those providers, who proved most effective had expert knowledge of the industry sectors, matched their training programmes to the needs and demands of employers and fostered good relationships with businesses.

Education and training providers were also able to benefit from their involvement with businesses. They have been able to make good use of advice and feedback on current industry practice.

Ms Gilbert concluded: “This report identifies the features of good practice and highlights practical examples of good or outstanding provision. I hope others will learn from by these examples.”

Mark Astley