The physical activity sector needs to put co-operation above self-interest if it is to avoid what threatens to become a ‘bun fight’ over the creation of a new framework for sector skills and workforce development.

That is the view of newly-promoted Active IQ managing director Jenny Patrickson, who is concerned that some training providers are using the ongoing discussions around a new skills framework as a business opportunity, rather than a chance for genuine collaboration.

Changes to the Qualification and Credit Framework (QCF) mean that core entry to sector Level 2 Fitness qualifications and Level 3 Personal Trainer qualifications are no longer common, shared units that are overseen by SkillsActive.

At present, consultations are being led by CIMSPA – in conjunction with employers, training providers and awarding organisations – to produce a skills framework which determines the minimum requirements for sector qualifications.

Patrickson says she is supportive of the efforts of CIMPSA – “It’s a chartered institute and we should make full use of it as such” – but says the consultations are in danger of being used as leverage for market position.

“We need to ensure that providers consider the overarching needs of the sector in relation to training standards and hope that they respond to the varying needs of different types of learners and employers, as one size doesn’t necessarily fit all,” she told Health Club Management.

“We know there are lots of good training providers out there, and some happen to offer shorter courses as well as longer options. There seems to be a demonisation of shorter courses at the moment by some parties, but they mustn’t forget that the length of a course doesn’t necessarily lead to higher quality output as there are other quality metrics that are significant, such as wrap-around tutor support and digital solutions, which can’t be ignored.”

Patrickson also expressed concern that the current uncertainty around the future of sector skills is being exacerbated by a lack of communication. She said the consultations are invariably led by the larger employers, and as a result, lots of smaller trusts and local authority employers find themselves completely out of the loop.

“There are still many unanswered questions,” she added. “There’s a lot of confusion around the roles of SkillsActive and CIMSPA; there’s a lot of confusion around what’s happening with REPs. I think communication needs to be stepped up from all parties so that everyone knows what’s going on, from operator level, to providers and particularly our workforce.”