SkillsActive has launched the findings of its Sector Skills Agreement (SSA), following months of consultation with employers and training providers within the active leisure and learning sector.

An action plan has also been revealed by SkillsActive, based upon the Sector Skills Council’s assessment of current and future skills needs and an assessment of current training provision.

The action plan is focused on six main ‘solutions’ for the sector, including improving recruitment, retention and the quality and range of services on offer alongside enabling the redirection of funding and increasing of investment within the sector.

The plan will be broken down into key objectives for each region and will also incorporate the five sub-sectors which SkillsActive represents – namely, sport and recreation, health and fitness, playwork, the outdoors and caravans.

Speaking at the launch, skills minister Phil Hope said: “SkillsActive’s Sector Skills Agreement shows how employers are engaged in the process of addressing the needs of the sector and helping to set its direction and priorities.

“The SSA is a crucial component of the process to build a legacy for, and beyond, 2012, and I welcome the work carried out by SkillsActive to help create a sustainable future for the active leisure and learning sector.”

SkillsActive will launch its Welsh SSA shortly, while the Scottish SSA is due to be launched in September in Glasgow. A Northern Ireland event is awaiting confirmation.

Last month, SkillsActive submitted a formal expression of interest to the government to lead a National Skills Academy (NSA) for the active leisure sector.

SkillsActive will be in competition with around 17 other SSCs from a variety of other sectors. The result of the SSC tenders to lead the next NSA and what sector it will represent, is expected to be announced in October at the Labour Party Conference. Details: www.skillsactive.com