The number of people gaining a qualification through the Train to Gain programme has hit the one million mark, the government has announced.
The millionth learner – Chris Scott, a process operator at chemical manufacturer William Blythe, based in Lancashire – completed his level 2 NVQ in Business Improvement Techniques in January this year.
Train to Gain, introduced in 2006, helps employers fund staff to gain full level 2 qualifications – the equivalent of five GCSEs – as well as A-level standard qualifications.
Skills minister Kevin Brennan said: “This is a great achievement for the programme and for each of the one million people who have now gained a qualification that will help them get on at work. With new skills they can further their own careers and make a significant impact on the business they work for.”
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Government figures show more than 175,000 employers have been engaged through Train to Gain brokerage services. In 2010-11, the government plans to invest nearly £1bn through Train to Gain, building on the £38bn that employers are already investing in training each year.
The Conservatives have said they would scrap Train to Gain if they come to power after the general election, transferring its budget to other skills projects.
