EEF comment on Tech-Levels

Engineering

Commenting on the introduction of Tech-Levels, David Ost, North West Region Director of EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation said:

“The introduction of Tech-Levels is a positive message to both employers and young people that Government is serious about putting vocational and academic qualifications on an equal footing. For too long vocational education has been the poor relation to academic pathways.

“Tech-Levels must have business buy-in and prioritise the qualifications it needs. Engaging employers in our education system is key to closing the skills gap in manufacturing and addressing high levels of youth unemployment.”

Skills Minister Matthew Hancock announced the new technical level qualifications and applied general qualifications today (4 July 2013).

Employers and trade associations will be asked to endorse the best occupational qualifications - to be known as ‘tech levels’ - so young people know which courses have the best job prospects.

Skills Minister Matthew Hancock said it was essential that 16- to 19-year-olds were given clear information about the qualifications which help them get on in life.