CIWM And SWITCH Collaborate To Deliver Better Learner Outcomes
To deliver improved skills and competence in the resource and waste management sector, CIWM (the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management) and the SWITCH Forum (Scottish Waste Industry Training, Competency, Health & Safety) have signed an agreement to collaborate in order to provide better outcomes for learners and those wanting to upskill as they move along their career path.
The two organisations, who have a history of joint working and a shared ambition to maintain a core competency framework for the resources and waste sector, will develop a Technically Competent Manager Framework for Scotland. The framework will create a standardised approach and will assist those in the sector attain the required levels of skills and competence to manage sites and operate in the sector. In order to facilitate this upskilling of learners from across Scotland and other parts of the UK, a Higher Technical Qualification/training programme will be established for delivery in universities across the UK.
There is a natural alignment between CIWM as a professional body representing individuals in the sector and SWITCH Forum members who have an interest collaborating to raise standards in the sector. CIWM and SWITCH have undertaken to provide appropriate resource and share best practice as the projects progress. In addition, CIWM will promote the qualification/training programme to its 5000-strong membership base.
Commenting on the collaboration, CIWM’s Professional Services Director, Katie Cockburn, said: “We are delighted to work with SWITCH to develop these projects, and this agreement will allow both of us to deliver the best for learners in our sector who are looking to develop their competency in resources and waste management. CIWM’s proactive approach to collaboration with other sector organisations not only delivers better professional standards, but also aligns with our strategic commitment to set and raise standards for professional excellence as we continue our journey to a world beyond waste.”
Jim Brown, Chair of the SWITCH Forum added, “SWITCH is very proud of our track record and CIWM has helped us from the start by volunteering time and expert advice to the group. Many of our members are CIWM members too. The collaboration comes from great synergies between the two organisations l and we are delighted to formalise the arrangement and work towards common goals where they make sense for all those in the sector.”
CIWM is keen to hear from other organisations who would like to collaborate on projects to drive forward the sector’s education and competence and SWITCH forum is keen to expand its reach and would encourage companies and individuals in the sector or from related professions such as health and safety, training and competence to join the forum as membership is free of charge.
The collaboration will be mentioned at the SWITCH forum AGM and autumn seminar which is free-to-attend and will be held on Tuesday 1st November hosted by Dundee City Council at Marryat Hall.
