A diploma in manufacturing and product design has been developed to equip young people with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in the industry, and will be taught from a curriculum designed in partnership with manufacturers. Available to young people aged between 14 and 19, it will be launched in September 2009 in 27 areas across England, delivered by approved consortia of schools, colleges and employers. In September this year, new consortia will be invited to apply to deliver the qualification from 2010, extending its reach to more young people. By 2013, the diploma will be available to all young people in England.

Food and drink manufacturers are being urged to invest in the future of the sector by working with schools and colleges to deliver a pioneering new qualification.

Helen King from sector skills council Improve, which is leading the team behind the development of the diploma, said: “Having a qualification available in schools and colleges that has been designed by industry provides us with an excellent opportunity.

“In order to reap its benefits, it is vital that businesses are actively involved in its delivery. Employers have long spoken of the problems they face attracting young people into the sector, and about the difficulties of finding skilled recruits who can add something to their business.

“The diploma in manufacturing and product design offers the chance for employers to take action, by engaging directly with young people while they are still in learning. It is a massive opportunity, and one which the food and drink manufacturing industry cannot afford to let pass by.”

Using a partnership approach to deliver the diploma is key to ensuring that students gain a true understanding of the world of work. It will allow them to apply theory learned in the classroom to real work environments, by spending time in specialist colleges with high-spec manufacturing facilities, and with manufacturing companies. A minimum of 10 days work experience is an essential part of the diploma.