Programme confirmed for Brokering Skills Solutions Together in Northern Ireland

Press Release - SkillsActive - 5/6/09

The conference, Brokering Skills Solutions Together, takes place on Thursday 25 June at the University of Ulster, Jordanstown with a keynote address from a leading recruitment consultancy, discussing the importance of and common understanding and definition of employability skills, which will ultimately help tailor provision and help to support the future health and fitness workforce in Northern Ireland.

SkillsActive’s national manager in Northern Ireland, Siobhan Weir said: “In this uncertain economic climate, it’s essential that there is a clear understanding of the

employability skills new recruits need in today’s gyms and leisure centres. This is not just for people wanting to work in the sector, it is equally important that training providers know what employers and looking for and that they tailor their programmes accordingly.”

As well as offering a unique brokering ‘marketplace’ where employers can negotiate directly with training providers regarding current and future provision.

SkillsActive’s chair of the Northern Ireland employers committee Jim Rose said: “Historically, training budgets are cut when funding is tight, yet most of us know that failure to invest in education and training is likely to intensify the impact of the recession which could damage our competitiveness in the future.”

The seminar, significantly, focuses on the opportunities within the sport and fitness sector in Northern Ireland and SkillsActive’s head of research Muriel Bankhead will be reporting on the review of public administration and the emerging sport and physical recreation strategy.

Weir continued: “The sport and fitness sector in Northern Ireland has developed at a rapid rate over the past few years, and employers need to be aware on the new trends, policies and opportunities available to them. Sport and fitness is creeping up policy agendas, and the sector needs to be ready to support this new focus.”

To find out more about the conference, email: events@skillsactive.com.