National agreement aims to strengthen policy influence

The agreement is strategic at national level, but there will also be collaboration at regional level to deliver the activities and results. A working list of key areas for collaboration includes: using Constructing Excellence demonstration projects to promote skills; to develop a common measurement framework and share data across the industry; and to co-ordinate provision of services in the Business Performance Improvement program.

Regional staff in Constructing Excellence and Construction Skills are working together to develop action plans for co-ordinated activities in 2005. The aim of this partnership is to strengthen influence on policy relating to skills and business performance, as well as providing improved access to funding. It will also mean more efficient use of resources and reduce confusion among users.

Peter Lobban, chief executive of CITB-ConstructionSkills says: “This agreement is a sign that the industry is taking full advantage of the opportunities on offer to develop the leading edge skills and training we need to deliver clients requirements in terms of quality time and cost.”