F&I Management & Training

It is one of 25 SSCs in the UK that help employers in different industries exert influence on the UK's education and skills systems.

The relicensing received broad support from motor trade bodies.

SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: "We have been impressed by the IMI's progress in many areas, not least the development of initiatives such as the careers web portal, Autocity to promote careers in our sector and the progress made on Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA).

RMI support

Retail Motor Industry Federation chairman, Paul Williams said: "It was vital that the retail motor industry retained its own dedicated Sector Skills Council and we are delighted that the industry, via employers across the retail, parts, accident repair & motorcycle sectors have championed this result allowing the IMI to lead on the skills agenda.

Scottish Motor Trade Association chief executive Douglas Robertson said: "The SMTA are delighted that the IMI has been relicensed as Sector Skills Council and has our admiration and respect for the very significant progress made since taking over the role of SSC in 2007."

Long process

An SSC assessment is a long process. It is carried out by the National Audit Office, which collects evidence, including employer testimonies, to produce a report.

The report is considered by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills, which makes a recommendation to ministers on whether to license or not.

An SSC may appeal against the recommendation made by the commission but not against the final ministerial decision.

DATED: 15.11.09

FEED: MT