A level two certificate in employability skills has been launched and will be available from April 2008.

The new qualification has been developed by Education Development International (EDI) and is aimed at both current employees and those wishing to enter the labour market.

The qualification aims to help learners gain a better understanding of the skills required both to enter employment and to work to their full potential within their role. The certificate is not specific to any sector and is suitable for a wide range of job roles and industries.

Assessed through a combination of assignment and a multiple choice test, the certificate can be delivered in 40 guided learning hours – either through a programme of off-the-job learning or through courses at a school, college or other training establishment.

The certificate focuses on skills that help people gain and retain jobs, in any role and in any sector, and includes health, safety and security in the workplace, essential communication and interpersonal skills, team skills and how to build positive working relationships.

Nigel Snook, chief executive of EDI, commented: “All employers are looking for individuals that can demonstrate the kind of personal and soft skills needed to succeed in the work place. This qualification will not only help candidates prove that they are committed to achieving their full potential within their role but enable them to develop skills that will be useful throughout their entire career. Employers will not only benefit from a more skilled workforce but also a more productive and effective one.”