£28 million boost for launch of national skills academy today

Press Release, NSA - 19/11/08

The government initiative, set up to address the current skills gap in the sector, will also help fill the deficit of qualified coaches and volunteers to run the 2012 Olympics as well as create a lasting legacy in sport participation.

Employers have committed the majority of capital funding and revenue support for the skills academy, with the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) providing a significant contribution to help the skills academy achieve its target to be self sustainable within three years. This massive commitment from the industry will enable the skills academy to provide one single approach to training 85,000 new entrants, existing staff and volunteers each year by 2013 and offer employers better quality training and improved access to government funding.

Some of the biggest names in the sector celebrated the launch including the England and Wales Cricket Board, PGL, Sheffield United, DC Leisure and Leisure Connection. Key politicians, training providers and employers heard how the skills academy will impact the sport, fitness and outdoor sectors and the difference it will make to the operation of businesses of all sizes. A variety of inspirational leaders spoke at the launch, including Lord Young, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Skills and Apprenticeships, Gerry Sutcliffe, Minister for Sport and Dr Frank Dick OBE.

In his speech, Lord Young said: “I am delighted that employers in the sport and active leisure sector have seized upon the National Skills Academy initiative. The employers investing in this partnership will reap the dividends of high quality tailored training and safeguard future growth in their industry. Today’s launch is great news for the future of the nation’s health and will work to directly deliver skilled workers for London 2012 and beyond.”

Today’s event also marks the launch of the Online Academy, which will be the first port of call for learners keen to find out about the skills needed to enter the sector or to progress their career. Over time they will be able to sign up to courses as well as access career maps, a directory of qualifications valued and recognised by employers and a directory of approved training providers. For employers, the website will provide much needed clarity about recognised training providers, training on site plus advice and resources on how to make the most effective use of staff training budgets.

Florence Orban, interim Chief Executive of the National Skills Academy for Sport and Active Leisure, said: “The skills academy will bring clarity to a confused training picture. Currently learners have to choose from around 490 existing qualifications specific to our sector and these have historically been delivered through an uncoordinated mix of providers. It can be very confusing and makes it difficult for learners to be sure they are signing up for courses which will provide them with the best chance of employment post qualification.”

 For more information on the National Skills Academy for Sport and Active Leisure, visit: www.sportactivensa.co.uk.