Update: The Department for Education (DfE) has now started the ITB Review and has announced a call for evidence from stakeholders.
The government would particularly welcome contributions from employers in scope of existing ECITB levy orders, as well as trade bodies and representative groups from the engineering construction industry. To provide submissions of evidence, please go to: www.gov.uk/government/consultations/industry-training-board-review-2023-call-for-evidence
The DfE is conducting the review into the role and effectiveness of both the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
The ECITB is the industry-led skills body for the Engineering Construction Industry in Great Britain. A non-departmental public body sponsored by the Department for Education, the ECITB works with employers and government to attract, develop and qualify personnel across a wide range of craft, technical and managerial disciplines.
Last reviewed in 2017, the ITB review will assess the extent to which each Arm’s Length Body (ALB) performs effectively and delivers services that meet the needs of industry. The review is a requirement set by the Cabinet Office for all public bodies to be reviewed periodically.
Andy Brown, Chief Operating Officer at the ECITB, said: “I wanted to let our partners know that the review is due to commence shortly and that they may be contacted by the review team to provide input.
“It is absolutely right that we are reviewed periodically to ensure we continue to be accountable, efficient, effective and aligned to the government’s priorities. And I would encourage all our stakeholders to contribute their perspectives on the ECITB’s performance.”
Andrew Hockey, CEO at the ECITB, commented: “Following our resounding levy consensus vote last Autumn, in which 85% of levy payers backed our proposals, we are in an excellent position to deliver the strategy endorsed by our industry.
“A key element of our strategy is to continuously improve so we look forward to working with the review team to showcase our industry achievements and our plans to advance industry skills over the coming years and are ready to consider any recommendations to improve.”
The review will be led by an independent lead reviewer, Mark Farmer, CEO of Cast Consultancy.
A review team will shortly announce a call for evidence on GOV.UK and will also interview relevant stakeholders. Those wanting to express an interest in the ITB review can email: ITB.REVIEW@education.gov.uk
The review team is considering setting up one or more challenge panels which may include representation from the construction and engineering construction industries as well as from the Departments of Business and Trade, Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, His Majesty’s Treasury and His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs.
A final report and recommendations are expected to be submitted to the Secretary of State for the Department for Education at the end of 2023.
