IAB and City & Guilds annoucne plans for major joint initiative

The IAB and City & Guilds announced today that they are exploring the feasibility of creating a range of joint qualifications that meet the needs of a changing global economy.

Both organisations are seeking to build on the strength of their current qualifications in book-keeping, accounting and other related areas by developing a portfolio of awards which will provide a coherent and progressive framework for career development.

Commenting, Malcolm Trotter, Principal Officer - Academic Affairs said: ëIAB qualifications are designed by its professional members and employers to meet the needs of business. They are renowned for setting the international standard for book-keeping, accounting and payroll qualifications. City & Guilds has great experience and an excellent reputation for providing vocational awards for a variety of industries ñ perhaps even being the world leader in this respect. Working together, the IAB and City & Guilds can build on their shared and distinct strengths to the even greater benefit of both learners and employersí

Ben Knight, general manager for ICT and Business at City & Guilds also acknowledged that both parties bring complementary strengths to the table. ëThe combination of City & Guildsí long tradition of providing a broad range of vocational qualifications with IABís industry expertise and close links with members and employers, should deliver real benefits to professionals in these sectors. By pooling our resources, we can ensure that a firm structure is in place to champion best practice and continual professional development both in the UK and international markets where we have a strong presence.í

Should the plans go ahead, the range of joint qualifications is expected to be made available from September 2008. A further announcement will follow later this year once the plans are finalised and formally approved by both organisations.