The original qualification was developed by the Saw Doctor Association (SDA) as an NVQ. However, with the added attraction of government funding, EPS worked with specialist trainer Didac and the national awarding body PIABC to formulate the Level 2 Award in tooling technology, which has formed the core qualification of the apprenticeship training programme.
EPS Services managing director Nick Palmer said he had been looking for a qualification to set a quality benchmark for this sector.
“Apprenticeship qualifications have until now been out of reach to those working in the tooling sector of the wood and timber industry,” he said. “We are proud to be leading the way in formalising skills in the sector.”
