5000 businesses already committed to diplomas

Andrew Brown, SkillsActive - 28/11/2007

Following from Ed Balls' speech SkillsActive would like to encourage businesses in the sector to take the opportunity to help shape the sport and leisure diploma.

Ed Balls, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, said:

“Employers, along with universities and colleges, are in the driving seat when it comes to developing Diplomas. So far around 5000 employers have been involved in the design of the first five Diplomas, which is unprecedented. Never before has there been such a high level of employer involvement in the design of a qualification.

“However we realise there is more work to be done. The call for greater employer involvement cannot come from Government alone - we know employers are more likely to want to get involved if they hear directly from other employers. That’s why the Diploma Employer Champions Network, led by Sir Alan Jones of Toyota UK, is so important. So far the network includes 18 high level employers who will help spread the word about Diplomas to other businesses, both large and small, encouraging them to come on board and lend their expertise.

“I would like to thank all those employers who have committed to making Diplomas work. I know their time is precious but their knowledge will ensure that Diplomas are a first class qualification, striking the right balance between academic rigour and practical, hands-on experience.”

Sir Alan Jones, Diploma Employer Champion and Chairman Emeritus, Toyota UK said:

"Diplomas provide young people with the knowledge and skills they need to get a head start. Employers are closely involved in the design of Diplomas and I am delighted that so many employers are now determined to champion them to their business peers and to young people themselves."

SkillsActive are currently in the process of developing a diploma for sport and leisure, due to be available for delivery from September 2010. The process of developing the sport and leisure diploma involves broad consultation with employers, schools, universities colleges, training providers and other relevant organisations and agencies, such as the Youth Sport Trust. Employers wishing to get involved in the development can join our steering group or take part in consultations regarding the content of the diploma and the skills, knowledge and attributes that you would like young people to have.

More information on the sport and leisure diploma can be found here, while information on diplomas in general can be found here.