WAMITAB set to extend provision

The move towards more sustainable waste management and recycling practices continues to drive forward the skills and competence agenda in the industry. The challenge is not only to 'up skill' the existing workforce, but to attract new recruits into the sector.


WAMITAB offers a range of competence-based qualifications – best known for the certificate of technical competence (COTC) scheme, the organisation has also been working with WRAP, EUSkills, CIWM and others to extend its provision as an awarding body.

There are specific qualifications available for managers, supervisors and operatives that will improve and demonstrate occupational competence – workplace competence. These include street cleaning NVQs to meet the needs of streetscene operatives and kerbside recycling NVQs at Levels 1 to 4.

Vocational related qualifications (VRQs) will shortly become available addressing the knowledge and understanding associated with advanced waste management technologies and the principles and practices of sustainable wastes management.

WAMITAB’s experience in delivering NVQs to adults has shown that poor literacy and numeracy skills are often barriers to progression and personal development. The Government has recognised this through its ‘Skills for life’ initiative whereby adults are supported to achieve adult literacy and numeracy (ALN) qualifications.

This is crucial in areas such as health and safety where the ability to read and understand safety information is critical to safe working. WAMITAB is working with the Department for Education & Skills to develop and test the concept of embedded learning, whereby ALN qualifications are achieved alongside the appropriate waste management NVQs.

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe