BMPA has joined the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education’s Directory of Professional and Employer-led Bodies (The ‘Employer Directory’) to help shape the future of apprenticeships and technical education. Inclusion on the Employer Directory emphasises BMPA’ s position at the forefront of skills and its role in developing a future workforce for the processing industry.

The Employer Directory has a membership of over 80 professional and employer-led bodies. It provides industry-focused guidance to regulators Ofqual and the Office for Students on quality assurance of apprenticeship end point assessment. Directory members are also increasingly being called upon by IfATE to advise on apprenticeship quality, T Levels, HTQs, approval of wider level 2 and 3 technical qualifications, and occupational maps which guide employers and potential learners on different training opportunities.

Nan Jones BMPA’s Technical Policy Manager said: “We are delighted to join the Employer Directory. It reflects our passionate commitment to making sure apprenticeships and all technical qualifications deliver on the economy’s needs for generations to come. It really matters to us that trainees learn skills that are truly sought after and valued by employers. That’s best for everyone and it can only be achieved if training across the board is guided by industry. We look forward to playing our part in making sure that happens.”

Before admitting BMPA into the Employer Directory, IfATE scrutinised the association’s credibility and its ability to represent employers. It also looked at BMPA’s capacity and capability to carry out the required work and its ability to manage any actual or potential conflicts of interest.

Nikki Christie, deputy director for business services division at IfATE, added: “We are delighted to welcome BMPA to the Employer Directory. The fantastic insights and guidance industry-recognised professional organisations provide us with are really important for making sure apprenticeships and technical qualifications stay high-quality, relevant, and credible. BMPA will be a wonderful addition to this influential group of industry experts.”