Deadline draws near for manufacturing diploma delivery applications
1 min read
Manufacturing and engineering professionals have until the last week in November to submit applications to help deliver the new Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design (MPD) qualification for 14-19 year olds from September 2010.
The diploma was launched in September and 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.
More companies are now being sought from all manufacturing sub-sectors to sign up and help to introduce the diploma in more areas from next year. By 2013, the qualification will be available to all young people in every area across England.
Derek Jones (pictured), 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. 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.
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.
The application process for new consortia is open now and closes on November 25, 2009. For further information about forming or joining consortia, visitwww.dcsf.gov.uk/14-19/G4consortiaguidance.
