§ Mr. LuffTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what discussions she has had with the British Association of Landscape Industries about training and certification of qualifications; and if she will make a statement. [22906]
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§ John HealeyNo discussions have been held with the British Association of Landscape Industries about training and certification of qualifications.
§ Mr. LuffTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what assessment she has made of the arrangements for training in the landscape contracting sector. [22907]
§ John HealeyArrangements for training in the landscape contracting sector are a matter for the employers in that sector, as in any other. A network of national training organisations (NTOs), set up by employers and formally recognised by the Government, provides strategic leadership and practical guidance about the learning, skills and qualification needs for a defined sector.
The Construction Industry Training Board is the NTO for the building and civil engineering sector, which includes "hard" landscaping, that is laying driveways; constructing walls; constructing or repairing swimming pools, playing fields and grounds for sporting or recreational purposes.
Lantra is the NTO for land-based industries, including "soft" landscaping, that is horticultural activities such as the landscaping of gardens and parks.
The Government recently announced plans to build a stronger sector network that will engage employers more fully in the planning and delivery of learning and skills. Sector skills councils will be set up which build on the achievements secured by NTOs.