The Chartered Institute of Building - General - Olympic Research on Skills Training

Date: 14 Feb 2006

Research on the skills that workers will need to a deliver a successful London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympics Games is set to begin.

Commissioned by the London Development Agency (LDA) and the Learning Skills Council (LSC) the research aims to analyse the skills and training requirements needed to build the Olympic Park and Legacy development in East London, and to stage the Games in 2012.

Michael Brown CIOB deputy chief executive commented, "We estimate that the 2012 Games will need some 7,000 construction workers to translate the vision of the Olympics into reality. In comparison the Sydney Games required some 10,000 workers and the current Beijing build has approximately a 20,000 strong workforce. London must demonstrate higher productivity levels than both Sydney and Beijing through increased off-site production and the development of new skills."

"This kind of skills audit is exactly what we need to deliver the project on time and on budget. The CIOB urges all construction bodies in the UK to get involved. We not only have a responsibility to produce a fantastic Games but also to encourage new recruits into the industry. If we can't harness the imagination and excitement that the world largest sporting event creates then we are not doing our jobs properly."

The research will analyse the skills needs resulting from previous Olympic, Paralympic and Commonwealth Games. Whilst examining the timetable running up to and during the Games and the anticipated demand for skilled workers. Examples of best practice in skills and employment training will also be reviewed.

Marc Stephens, executive director of Olympic Opportunities and International Promotion at the LDA added, "The Games will create thousands of new jobs and training opportunities for Londoners. Its also a chance for people to develop their skills and learn new one and this study will give us the clearest picture of the challenges and opportunities the Games will bring and we are determined Londoners and businesses will realise the benefits."

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