Skills and vocational learning of ‘vital importance’ during economic downturn

Work-related education and training will play a vital role in the UK’s economic recovery, according to a new report on vocational learning.

Work-related education and training will play a vital role in the UK’s economic recovery, according to a new report on vocational learning.
A survey of 1,200 employers by City & Guilds – the UK’s largest vocational education organisation – reveals 60% of employers believe the biggest benefit of people with vocational qualifications over graduates is that they already have the skills and experience to work for their business from day one.
The report – ‘The Skills Economy – the new framework for prosperity’  found 42% of bosses currently without vocationally qualified staff also acknowledge that they are as well-qualified for positions at their company as graduates.
Almost seven in 10 (65%) bosses think vocational qualifications cover a wide range of emerging industries and not just ‘traditional trades’ such as plumbing and carpentry.
The Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) is the new government framework to regulate vocational qualifications.  It is replacing the National Qualifications Framework – over the next nine months all remaining NQF qualifications will be reviewed and redeveloped for the QCF.
Chris Jones, director general and CEO, City &Guilds, said: ”Our research reveals the extent to which UK plc recognises the vital important of skills through vocational learning for the country’s future economic prosperity and global competitiveness.
”As the introduction of QCF puts the spotlight on vocational qualifications, City & Guilds is committed to creating a wide range of high quality qualifications that will equip individuals with the right skills and training needed to support the country’s recovery as well as bring clarity to the changeover for employers, learners and training centres alike.
”Ultimately vocational qualifications will become even more relevant to employers’ skills needs and the changing face of UK industry, as well as more flexible and transparent for learners’ career progression.”
The new report discovered:
* 72% of bosses believe the benefits to their business of training apprentices far outweigh the costs.
* 56% of business managers say a high proportion of their apprentices go on to management positions within the company.
* Almost seven in 10 (68%) employers think their vocationally qualified employees make them more competitive in their industry.
Last week universities warned tens of thousands will miss out on places this autumn, and proposals for a new graduate tax were floated.

• Vote  
• 0
• 0
• You already voted!

• Tags:
• Work Education