This webinar premiered findings from new L&W research on whether occupational standards are meeting the changing needs of the economy. In partnership with Pearson and in conversation with skills experts and employers, we considered whether our system is agile enough to fulfil the Government’s ambitions for the key ‘IS-8’ sectors, as well as the wider mission for growth.

The research, commissioned by Pearson, provides insights on the extent to which current development and use of occupational standards are meeting the changing needs of the economy, and explores implications for policy and practice. Can our qualification system keep up with advances in Artificial Intelligence? Will green skills be built into occupations quickly enough to deliver clean energy by 2030?

Occupational standards outline the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to be occupationally competent in particular roles. They are primarily used as a foundation for apprenticeships and other technical qualifications. They are also used by employers across a range of sectors and by educational institutions, including training providers and qualification setting organisations or awarding bodies, supporting learners to develop the vocational skills needed for job roles.

The webinar may be of interest to policymakers at national and local levels, researchers, learning providers, awarding bodies and employers, as well as everyone interested in post-16 skills and education.

Speakers include:

• Carmel Grant, Deputy Director, Development & Innovation at Skills England 
• Stephen Evans, CEO at L&W 
• Donna Ford-Clarke, Vice President, Vocational Qualifications and Portfolio at Pearson 
• Phillip Bryant, Skills & Standards Manager at Energy & Utility Skills 
• Emily Stubbs, Head of Policy at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce
• Claire Aspinall, Impact and Delivery Manager, Enginuity