National Occupational Standards for Processors

The new (2010) fish and shellfish occupational standards represent a significant leap forward for the seafood processing and retail sectors, perhaps the most important development in 20 years.

The new standards will drive forward qualifications, apprenticeships and new training programmes/materials.

Based around the Improve Ltd's model for Proficiency Qualifications (IPQs) there are now almost 60 units of knowledge or skills in fish and shellfish processing and retailing.  Most of these units are at level 2, but a significant number of new knowledge units are at level 3.

The framework is expected to be formally approved in the autumn of 2010.  In the meantime, more information can be found on The Seafood Academy site.

There are four types of units that make up Improve's Qualification structure. This slide shows that the work-based Improve Proficiency Qualification (IPQ) is made up of two or three units - OS, OK, UK that combine the work-based skills (OS) and knowledge (OK) with any appropriate underlying principles (UK) of a process to produce a qualification that is fit for purpose. Combining the Underpinning Knowledge unit with the appropriate Vocational Skills unit can lead to an Improve Vocational Qualification. This type of qualification is ideally suited to College or training provider delivery outside of the workplace.

Apprenticeships

Each of the four nations in the UK recognise that apprenticeships can contribute to providing the skills that employers need for their workforce.

Consequently, each nation has developed its own apprenticeship strategy and is investing in the programme.

Each country's approach to apprenticeships varies, to find out more visit the Improve skills site.