Home > News > December 2004 > 08-Dec-2004

GoSkills takes off in Scotland

GoSkills, the Sector Skills Council (SSC) for passenger transport, was launched in Scotland on Monday, at BAA Scotland's offices in Edinburgh.

Scottish Transport Minister Nicol Stephen MSP was the guest speaker at the event which was attended by representatives from passenger transport industries, qualifications and awarding bodies.

Speaking at the Scottish launch, Nicol Stephen, said "It is important that we have the right people, with the right skills to deliver our major programme of investment in Scotland's transport. The launch of GoSkills creates a new opportunity to improve skills and introduce more passenger-focused training.

"The transport sector contributes very significantly to the economic and social well being of Scotland. New projects such as the rail links to Edinburgh and Glasgow airports and Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, will depend on the excellence of the transport work force in Scotland.

"GoSkills plays a unique role in the training of transport professionals. By developing the skills of drivers, aviation workers, planners, engineers and others, we can deliver a modern, attractive and high quality transport service for Scotland.

Peter Huntington, GoSkills Chief Executive, said: "Thousands of people rely on passenger transport in Scotland to get to schools or work, visit relatives, go shopping or to access leisure," said . "It is a vital ingredient of daily life. It's therefore imperative that those working in the sector have the right kind of qualifications and training to meet the demands of a modern transport system.

"We are already working closely with employers, operators and agencies across Scotland to ensure that standards and qualifications are framed to meet the real needs of the passenger transport industries and I would urge anyone with a stake in the sector to contact us to get involved."

GoSkills sector coverage encompasses a wide range of passenger transport industries and professions including, aviation, bus, coach, chauffeurs, taxi and private hire, community transport, trams, driving instructors, and transport planners.

"As one of Scotland's largest transport providers, handling over 19 million passengers a year, BAA Scotland is very much on the frontline of passenger transport," said Gordon Rae, Director of HR at BAA Scotland. "In such a highly competitive industry, we understand that to get the best out of our airports, we have to invest in our staff and in their potential.

"Transport relies on more than infrastructure alone. It relies on the skills and commitment of those who work within the industry every day. It's vital they have the right type of skills and qualifications to meet the demands of the job.

"Transport is an essential part of our society, not only vital to our economy, but a social lifeline for every one of us. It's important that those working in the frontline are able to deliver the high standard of service expected by the travelling public."

External link

For more information visit: www.goskills.org/

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