The
Sector Skills Development Agency has approved bids from two further sectors for
the next phase of Sector Skills Council development.
Adult
Learning and Skills Minister Ivan Lewis said the sectors concerned are the
construction, and the process and manufacturing industry – a new body formed on
behalf of six sectors: glass, extractives, building products, coatings, paper
and furniture.
The
SSDA was set up to develop, fund and champion the UK-wide network of
employer-led Sector Skills Councils.
Earlier
this month, three other sectors were approved for the next stage – the
information technology, telecommunications and contact centre industries; the
hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism sector; and technology, engineering
and science.
Together
with the five existing Trailblazer Sector Skills Councils this brings the
number of sectors covered to 10.
“It’s
a significant accomplishment and a tribute to UK employers that, less than 12
months after the Secretary of State announced the Sector Skills Councils
network, we already have 10 organisations working towards full SSC status, said
Lewis.
“Added
together, the sectors they represent generate almost half the UK economy and
employ in excess of 13 million people.
“I
hope employers from other sectors will follow their lead.”
*Skills
for Business is holding the first ever UK Skills Convention at Salford Quays,
in Greater Manchester on 14-15 November. Visitors will have the opportunity to
meet the decision-makers in the Government and government agencies, network
with other employers across all sectors of industry and influence government
policy in relation to skills, education and vocational training.
For
information about the UK Skills Convention visit www.ssda.org.uk
