Press Releases

OPENING DOORS FOR QUALIFIED DRIVERS

Qualified drivers are in demand – and not just on the roads. Experienced HGV drivers are needed to work on behalf of Further Education colleges across the country to assess the skills of others, and Protocol National, which holds the UK’s largest database of assessors, is urging those with the right experience to get in touch.

Chief executive Phil Harrison, explained, “Since Skills for Logistics announced its aim to reduce the number of people working in the industry without at least Level 2 qualifications by 40% by 2010, Further Education colleges in the UK have experienced a huge demand for Transport related NVQ courses.

“As such, qualified drivers currently working in the industry could be boosting their wage packets by passing on their skills and knowledge.”

Assessors provide support and guidance to candidates in their own workplace and sometimes at college, observing them as they work towards their NVQs. Their assessment, observations and evidence enables learners to gain their qualifications and pursue a career in the industry. 

They are vital to allow colleges to deliver the training programmes that are required and therefore anyone with an existing assessing qualification - or who is willing to undertake one - is highly sought after and can be very well paid.

Some full-time Assessors can earn up to £50,000, but there are a whole host of flexible, part-time opportunities on offer. By working in the day or during the evening, Assessing can fit around an existing job or home life to provide extra income when necessary.

Phil added, “As well as the satisfaction that comes from helping the next generation to progress, assessing can also be an interesting next step for anyone looking to further their career.”

Assessors should have at least NVQ Level 2, recent industry experience including a HGV1 licence, patience and good communication and motivation skills.

Tens of thousands of people in the UK are qualified as Assessors, often having acquired the qualification as part of another course, however many will never have utilised the skill, or the benefits that come with it.

Those without Assessing qualifications can sometimes study towards an A1 or A2 Assessor award while they start earning. These can be completed at your local college in around three months. You will receive coaching in planning and delivering training and workshops, observing, examining and questioning candidates, providing feedback and keeping all the relevant records.