Skills Council licence approved

26 March 2010 11:19 am | By Nicole Blackmore

The FSSC says the licence was awarded in recognition of the Council’s new strategic approach, which has been developed in partnership with sector employers and stakeholders.

It was denied a new licence by the Government last May, with Skills Secretary John Denham saying the body “did not meet the standard required”.

The FSSC conducted a strategic review and made its submission for re-licensing in September.

There were concerns earlier in the week that a decision on the council’s bid for relicensing may be delayed until after the general election.

The FSSC says it will now focus on improving professionalism in the broadest sense and promoting the sector to new entrants, working in close partnership with key bodies and complementing existing industry initiatives on a sector-by-sector and cross sector basis.

Interim chief executive Liz Field says: “The Ministers have today backed the wishes of the industry and I’m happy to report that we’re already off to a flying start with our new approach. 

“In open consultation, the industry made clear that we have an important role to play in attracting talent, developing skills and ensuring industry solutions. We have subsequently developed a clear strategy, which we can achieve through a strong spirit of cooperation and collaboration.”

FSSC chairman Roy Leighton adds: “We have focused on making real and relevant change to the way the FSSC works, for the benefit of the industry. We viewed the open consultation as a perfect opportunity to get a better understanding of the changing needs of a broad range of employers, and at the same time to communicate more freely with all of our stakeholders. 

“I’m delighted that the UK Commission for Employment and Skills, and then the panel of Ministers, have acknowledged the strength of our strategy and the clarity of our new direction.” 

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