The BBC will work with Skillset, the Sector Skills Council to promote education and learning across the audio-visual industry.
Skillset has signed a Memorandum Of Understanding with the BBC to support skills development across the UK at every level to ensure that the industry remains creative, productive and globally competitive. The two parties will work on joint action plans across training in television, radio and interactive skills.
The Memorandum Of Understanding follows the BBC’s Charter and Agreement which came into effect on 1 January, and Skillset’s Television Skills Strategy, announced in July 2006. The charter outlines the broadcaster’s training responsibilities and the need to further develop strategic partnerships to implement these objectives.
Skillset and the BBC will also work to develop both skills and businesses in the north of England to link with development of Media City, a new media city; an innovative and creative hub at Salford Quays, and the moving of some key BBC departments to Salford in 2011.
Mark Thompson, BBC director-general, said: “The BBC is committed to supporting high quality training for the BBC and the UK media sector. We need to make sure that we have a skilled workforce fit for the digital on-demand future. Working in partnership with outside organisations such as Skillset is vital to ensure we deliver effective support for the UK’s creative economy.”
Dinah Caine, chief executive officer of Skillset added: “This joint commitment to build a strong partnership in knowledge and skills of this dynamic workforce will contribute to improving the overall skills levels of the UK’s creative media industries.”
