IET to take lead role in new ‘Trailblazers’ Apprenticeships

Plans published today by the Government for the future of Apprenticeships include “Trailblazers”, which will put employers in the driving seat so that Apprenticeships deliver the skills businesses and learners need to compete in the global race.

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) will be taking a lead role within the Electro-technical trailblazer, which will develop the standards for Installation Electrician and Maintenance Electrician.  Other companies involved include Balfour Beatty, National Grid and the Joint Industry Board for the Electrical Contracting Industry.

Michelle Richmond, IET Director of Membership and Professional Development, said: “The Trailblazers initiative is a real step forward for Apprenticeships because it means that a range of engineering sectors will have simplified and consistent Apprenticeship standards and the assessment approaches that sit alongside them.

“Professional bodies like the IET will play a crucial role in Trailblazers to ensure that achieving an Apprenticeship signifies that an individual is ready to secure professional registration, such as Engineering Technician or ICT Technician where that is available. The IET is uniquely placed to lead this trailblazer because of our work in setting the wiring regulations standard.”

Skills Minister Matthew Hancock said: “I am very pleased that the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) has chosen to be at the forefront of our Apprenticeship reforms. This is great opportunity to be a Trailblazer, building on existing successes to lay the foundations for rigorous and easily understood apprenticeships that will help Britain compete in the global race.

“Our aim is that the new Apprenticeships will focus squarely on rigorous training for learners and simplicity of use for large and small employers, who will be in the driving seat of Apprenticeships in future. This will mean that our Apprenticeship system will respond better to the needs of the modern economy.”

The IET is also part of the Aerospace, Energy & Utilities and Food & Drink Manufacturing Trailblazers.

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Notes to editors:
§  Interview opportunities are available with IET spokespeople from a broad range of engineering and technology disciplines including cyber-security, energy, engineering skills, innovation, manufacturing, technology, transport and women in engineering.

§  The IET is one of the world’s largest organisations for engineers and technicians. It has 153,000 members in 127 countries and is leading the development of a global engineering and technology community to share and advance knowledge to enhance people’s lives.

§  The IET is the Professional Home for Life® for engineers and technicians, and a trusted source of engineering intelligence and thought leadership.

§  For more information, visit www.theiet.org.