Recognition for businesses backing diploma

10 October 2008

A new Recognition Scheme has been launched to identify and reward businesses which have pledged to support the new Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment (C&BE).

Companies will receive a certificate and a recognition mark that they will be able to use in their marketing material as a badge of pride in their efforts to help young people prepare for work in areas such as facilities management (FM), housing, property and construction. The Diploma was developed by a group of Sector Skills Councils including Asset Skills, the Sector Skills Council (SSC) for FM, property and housing, in conjunction with employers and education providers.

David Bell, Director of Qualifications and Policy at Asset Skills, said: “We want this scheme to reward firms who are backing this important new qualification. Their input is crucial in ensuring the Diploma can offer direct experience of the world of work and raise young people’s understanding of careers across the built environment.”

The Recognition Scheme pack will be sent to all 44 of the successful 2008 consortia, which between them are working with the support of hundreds of employers across England. Schools Minister Jim Knight said: “The Diploma is an exciting new educational option for young people, which combines theoretical study with practical experience and best prepares them for higher education or work. We thank all of the organisations who have pledged their support for the Diploma.”

Nearly 300 firms have committed to support the Diploma including Kier, Carillion, Persimmon Homes, Seddon Group, Bovis, Laing O’Rourke, Lovell, Wates, Rok and Balfour Beatty.

For further information go to www.cbediploma.co.uk