Education and training in packaging could get a boost if UK Sector Skills Council (SSC) Proskills is successful in its bid to take the industry under its wing.

Proskills, which represents processors and manufacturers in paper, print, coatings/inks and glass, plans to work with training organisations such as the Packaging Industry Awarding Body Company (PIABC) of IOM3 to refine qualifications currently in place, develop opportunities through apprenticeships and foundation degrees, and incorporate the sector into the new Proskills National Academy for industry-led training.

Andy Bradburn, the prospective Industry Champion for Packaging at Proskills, says, ‘[The packaging sector] is broad, covering manufacturing, printing, logistics and design. Elements are aligned with other SSCs [and], in principle, this would not change – Proskills plans to work closely with them. But the industry is vulnerable in terms of education and training initiatives. We are hoping to coordinate disparate strands and develop a structured approach.’

Proskills issued a consultation with industry earlier this year, but met with little response. A new campaign has been launched via an online consultation and direct contact with employers. The process will end in mid-December, with the view to present the case to the Proskills Board in January 2008.

Further information:

Proskills