Lifelong Learning UK’s Catalyst and IMI join forces to help FE teachers gain work placements in businesses
Lifelong Learning UK’s Catalyst: Business Interchange programme, and The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) today announce a partnership which aims to develop links between businesses and further education providers in the automotive industry.
Lifelong Learning UK and the IMI, the Sector Skills Council for the retail motor industry will work with further education organisations and automotive businesses to help teachers, tutors and assessors update their knowledge and skills by spending time working in automotive businesses.
Business Interchange work placements contribute to the continuing professional development (CPD) of teachers, tutors and trainers working in further education and help ensure they have the skills and expertise to meet the needs of the sectors they work in. It also helps colleges and training providers forge closer links with local businesses.
The partnership will provide assistance, guidance and support materials to facilitate access to current industry experience through placement opportunities within the automotive industry.
Jo Blackburn, Business Interchange project manager, Lifelong Learning UK said; “Working with the IMI gives us a fantastic opportunity to engage directly with the automotive sector and encourage more teachers, tutors and trainers to update their skills in a real working environment. They will benefit enormously from hands-on opportunities to increase their knowledge and vocational expertise, get to grips with best practice and learn about new techniques.”
Adrian Lawson, Development Manager, Quality Improvement at the IMI said, “Placing skills and recognition at the heart of the automotive retail sector is extremely important to prepare for the future. As an organisation we are committed to improving standards of competency across the industry and believe that this programme will have great benefits not just for the individuals on placement, but for the businesses who take them on.”
For information about how learning providers can apply for work placements through this partnership please contact: [email protected] or 01904 612 231.
If you are a business wishing to host a work placement or exchange we can help you get in touch with local providers - please contact Caroline Harris, Business Interchange Coordinator at the IMI Email: [email protected] or call 01992 511521.