UK announces new body to promote VET & skills sector

Published 11/10/2017

The UK has launched a new UK Skills Partnership, a collective body that will more actively and strategically promote the UK’s technical vocational and training expertise globally.

It was announced by Secretary of State for International Trade, Liam Fox, at an event that saw the FE and training sector, K-12, English language training and higher ed convene.

Partners of the new UK Skills Partnership will include bodies such as the Association of Colleges, Universities UK and the Federation for Industry Sector Skills and Standards.

“The UK is a world leader in education exports, and anywhere in the world, British education is in demand,” said Fox.

But he added, “It could be argued that we have lacked a strategic UK skills offer, to engage in broader based, larger scale programs overseas. I think it’s a fair criticism.

He explained the new body will “build our capacity, reach and engagement in international markets, and collective insight on matters relating to vocational skills development”.

Fox also announced a new DIT Education Advisory Group, which will provide a forum for senior leaders in the education sector to explore global trade and investment opportunities.

It will consist of representative bodies covering universities, vocational training, international schools, education technology, early years education and English language training.

Minister for Investment, Mark Garnier, who was also at the launch, added, “I’m delighted that we’re creating two new platforms to help the sector operate in overseas markets.

“As an international economic department we will work with the industry to unlock its exporting potential, and create a new generation of young people with a personal connection to Britain.”

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