Kim Howells, the lifelong learning minister, this week launched the first 18 of a new network of National Training Organisations whose aim is to boost the level of skills in major industries such as chemicals, engineering, road haulage, steel and water.
He told representatives at the launch in London: “You are pioneers of a new concept - the first government-recognised training organisations.”
Each NTO is charged with developing skills within its own sector, fostering links with closely-related industries and occupations and forging links with the training and enterprise councils.