The Government has unveiled 400 fully-funded courses to “build back better” following the devastating impact of Covid-19 on the economy, but training providers warned key sectors had been excluded from the new scheme.
The courses will help people over 18 without a full Level 3 or A-Level equivalent qualification gain “in-demand skills” and, the Government hopes, open up further job opportunities once enrolment opens in 2021.
The Government hopes tens of thousands of adults will take up courses ranging from engineering to healthcare and conservation, but training organisations expressed concern over the lack of qualifications in sectors such as hospitality and retail.
Today we've announced nearly 400 FREE qualifications for adults to get ahead in work�â If you don't have A Levels or equivalent, from April 2021 you could study a free course in agriculture, conservation, engineering, business and more. Visit: https://t.co/NVDWN6UG3j#PlanForJobspic.twitter.com/H3bJmVHxLz
— Department for Education (@educationgovuk) December 9, 2020
Jane Hickie, managing director of the Association of Employment and Learning Providers, said while the latest announcements were a “positive step” it was disappointing parts of the economy had been shut out.
Hickie said: “The inclusion of adult care on the qualifications list is welcome and vital in terms of attracting more home grown talent to the sector after Brexit. But we can’t fail to hide our disappointment that hospitality and retail have been left off when these sectors are being hit so hard by the effects of the pandemic.”