Deadline draws near for new Diploma applications

It's great to hear about another vocational training course which could benefit the chemical sector in the UK. Please let us know about any other similar initiatives.

 
The Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design (MPD) was launched in schools and colleges across England in September. It is being taught in partnership with employers to give young people the chance to learn about manufacturing and develop the skills and knowledge they will need when they enter the workplace.

Chemical processing companies have until the last week in November to submit applications to help deliver a pioneering new qualification for 14-19 year olds from September 2010. 
The project team which developed the qualification is now looking for more companies, from all manufacturing sub-sectors, to sign up and help to introduce the Diploma in MPD in more areas from next year. By 2013, the Diploma in MPD will be available to all young people in every area across England.
 
Derek Jones, vocational programmes manager for the Diploma in MPD, said: "This is a great opportunity for businesses to help shape the workforce of tomorrow. We have a number of companies already working with us but this is an opportunity for more to come forward and support this new qualification ready for September 2010.
 
"Manufacturing companies have long spoken of the problems they face attracting young people into the sector and about finding skilled recruits who can add something to their business," added Derek. "Having a qualification that has been designed by industry provides us with an excellent opportunity to put this right."
 
The Diploma in MPD is already available in towns and cities including Plymouth, Sheffield, Stoke, Nottingham and London. Employers involved include some of the country's manufacturing giants like Cadbury, Polestar, Boeing, Siemens, Kawasaki Precision Machinery, Bombardier Transportation, Princess Yachts and Müller.
 
Employers directly contribute to the learning experience by giving talks to students, hosting site visits, setting topics for projects, mentoring students and offering work experience placements.
 
The Diploma in MPD has been developed to equip young people with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in manufacturing. It is being taught from a curriculum designed by the five manufacturing sector skills councils, including Cogent, the sector skills council for the chemicals, pharmaceuticals, nuclear, oil and gas, petroleum and polymer industries, in partnership with manufacturers. It is delivered by approved consortia made up of employers, schools and colleges, allowing students to divide their time between the classroom and real work environments.
 
Employers interested in getting involved from September 2010 are now being invited to join with schools and colleges in their local area to submit an application to create a consortium.