The government has given its backing for employer-led projects to deliver the skills for growth in a number sectors including healthcare and nuclear manufacturing.

Following the first round of applications to the £50m Growth and Innovation Fund, proposals to provide training in seven industries have been chosen for further development.

• Business planning will now go ahead for a new National Skills Academy for Health, which will be led by the Skills for Health Sector Skills Council.
• Plans are under development for existing National Skills Academies to be expanded, with the National Skills Academy for Nuclear embracing nuclear manufacturing and the National Skills Academy for Creative and Cultural Skills expanding into the jewellery, design and heritage industries.
• Particular projects with joint employer and public funding have been given the green light to boost specialist skills in the fitness and playwork industries.

The projects will draw on joint funding from employers and the government, via the Skills Funding Agency.

Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Vince Cable, says: “This government wants business to lead the creation of a world-class skills system. I’m pleased that employers have responded by coming forward with innovative ideas for the Growth and Innovation Fund. The fund will target public money, investing alongside business, to deliver workforce skills in new and creative ways.”