Image: The sector will benefit from new opportunities

The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) is investing in the extension of the National Skills Academy for Creative and Cultural into the cultural heritage sector.

A new development programme is to enhance and develop career opportunities for young people across a range of areas - including museums and galleries and conservation.

Creative and Cultural Skills and partners such as the Museums Association, Arts Council England and the Heritage Lottery Fund will lead the initiative.

Worth an estimated £5.5bn a year, the cultural heritage sector employs 54,000 people and makes a "significant contribution" to the UK's tourism economy.

John Hayes, minister for further education, skills and lifelong learning, said the cash boost will help the National Skills Academy for Creative and Cultural create new opportunities.

"This is very good news for the creative industries and will help them to overcome the skills gaps that stand in the way of them meeting their full potential," said Hayes.

Details: www.ccskills.org.uk