National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) has responded to the Prime Minister’s plans to give schools greater flexibility to tailor learning towards local employers and technical careers. Under the proposals, schools will work more closely with businesses and local leaders to develop technical education that better reflects regional skills needs. The reforms are intended to place greater value on vocational qualifications and help more young people move into employment.
NFDA believes the proposals bring an opportunity to strengthen the automotive skills in pupils by encouraging closer collaboration between schools, colleges and franchised vehicle retailers, helping more students to access the range of careers across the sector.
Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the NFDA, said:
‘Franchised retailers already invest heavily in apprenticeships and technical training and these reforms could encourage more young people to pursue careers in automotive retail while helping employers address long-term skills shortages.
She added: ‘To maximise the benefits, Government should also increase flexibility within the Growth and Skills Levy, giving employers greater freedom to invest in the training their businesses need.’
NFDA will continue to work with Government to ensure skills policy reflects the needs of franchised retailers and the ongoing development of the sector.