FAQ for Sector Skills Councils (SSCs)

What are Sector Skills Councils?

At the heart of the Skills for Business network are 25 Sector Skills Councils (SSCs).  Each SSC is an employer-led, independent organisation that covers a specific sector across the UK. SSCs provide employers with a unique forum to express the skills and productivity needs that are pertinent to their sector.

All SSCs are licensed by the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, in consultation with Ministers in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

e-skills UK was one of the first two SSCs to receive a full five year licence from the Secretary of State for Education and Skills at a launch event on 8 April 03.

 

What is the Alliance of Sector Skills Councils?

The Alliance of Sector Skills Councils is an employer-driven organisations that, together, articulate the voice of 89% of the UK’s employers on skills issues.

The Alliance is a new organisation (since 1st April 2008) comprising all 25 Sector Skills Councils (SSCs).

For details, go to www.sscalliance.org.

What is the Skills for Business network?

Skills for Business is an employer-led network consisting of 25 Sector Skills Councils.  Through its unrivalled labour market intelligence and insights from the employers in all sectors of the UK economy, the network identifies change needed in policy and practice relating to education and skills development. With the influence granted by licences from the governments of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and with private and public funding, this independent network engages with the education and training supply-side, such as universities, colleges, funders and qualifications bodies, to increase productivity at all levels in the workforce.

For details, go to www.skillsforbusiness.org.uk

What is the UKCES?

Launched on 1 April 2008, the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES) is a key recommendation in Lord Leitch's 2006 review of skills. The UKCES is responsible for the licensing process of the 25 Sector Skills Councils (SSCs).

The UKCES aims to raise UK prosperity and opportunity by improving employment and skills.

For details, go to www.ukces.org.uk.