The Institute of IT Training’s decision to become a self-governing body has been endorsed by thought leaders in the learning and development space.

 
The not-for-profit organisation completed a management buyout from membership and research organisation, the National Computing Centre, earlier this month in a move that Colin Steed, its chief executive, described as a “great opportunity” to gain greater freedom of movement.
 
Nigel Paine, managing director of NigelPaine.com and a former head of learning and development at the BBC, said: “I’m delighted that the IITT has taken this bold step. There’s a need for standards and leadership in the learning and development profession, and the Institute is now well placed to enhance its role and provide this.”
 
Julie Wedgewood, training manager at Cheshire ICT Services, agreed. She believed that the development would further the Institute’s mission of championing the professional training industry, driving up standards and ensuring that membership was valued, recognised and sought after.
 
“Extending the boundaries beyond IT training and recognising that technology-based learning and development training is fast becoming the norm will encourage the Institute’s members to continue to develop their own skills and careers, providing them with the vital motivation and opportunities to take the lead in the learning revolution together,” she added.
 
The IITT intends to consult with its members over the future direction of the body over the next few months, but said that its staff and management team would remain intact following the buyout.
 
The organisation was set up in 1995 and has about 3,500 individual members and around 400 accredited corporate members.