EAL reports massive growth in vocational qualifications

Awarding body EAL (EMTA Awards Limited) has seen substantial growth in completion of its vocational qualifications over the past year, with a 20 per cent growth in certification of engineering qualifications, and an increase of almost 50 per cent in certification of qualifications for the building services sector.

“These statistics are extremely positive and show that more and more people are recognising the value of vocational training, and the business benefits these qualifications can bring,” said Ann Watson, managing director of EAL. “We are the only awarding body to use in-house experts from within these sectors to develop and verify up-to-date, quality products, and ensure our qualifications represent the highest standard of practical achievement. This growth shows we’re becoming the awarding body of choice for candidates and employers alike.”

Over the past year, more than 45 000 candidates have completed an EAL engineering qualification. In the building services sector legislative changes and the introduction of the 17th Edition have been a driving force for electrical firms to ensure employees’ skills and knowledge are up-to-date, with over 1500 new and existing electricians achieving EAL’s industry-recognised 17th Edition qualifications since July 2008.

As students, teachers and employers across the UK celebrate Vocational Qualifications Day on 24 June, EAL will continue to champion the value of vocational qualifications, and call for employers to continue their investment in training, in readiness for the economic upturn.