In response to devolution, and the handling of responsibilities for training and education to local assemblies, the Motor Industry Training Council is launching local initiatives in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
In Wales, a group of employers chaired by Colin Knowlson of Slaters of Abergele has won funding from the Assembly for Wales for projects aimed at developing the skills of the retail motor industry workforce. One will address the perceived lack of skills such as communication and numeracy among young entrants to the industry.
Led by Adrian Smith, of Adrian Smith (Saab), the Scottish group comprises key employers from Scottish industry and will ensure the views of the retail motor industry are communicated to government. It is hoped that a similar group will be set up by the summer in Northern Ireland.
Euro agency calls for lifelong learning unity
• The success of lifelong learning will depend on a fundamental rethink of the role of vocational education, according a study produced by CEDEFOP, the European agency responsible for vocational training. In the report, An Age of Learning, the agency points out that lifelong learning blurs the traditional distinctions between initial and continuing training, general and vocational education, and formal and non-formal learning.
CEDEFOP argues that the challenge will only be met if there is closer cooperation at European level, supported by a clear and coherent policy framework.
• Free copies of the report can be downloaded from the Electronic Training Village site.
www.trainingvillage.gr/etv/policyreport , www.cedefop.eu.int
