Our definition of the science sector is confined to Engineering
and Bioscience. Engineering science includes research, development
and testing of new innovations in mechanical, electronic and
electrical products and services. Our priority is the skills needs
of aerospace, automotive, metals and marine sector. Bioscience
(sometimes referred to as life sciences) includes the research and
development of human and animal therapeutics and diagnostics
instruments and medical devices. Our skills priorities are the
skills needs of Biomanufacturing, contract research organisations,
and pharmaceutical companies.
Current Activities:
Our current activities are focused the skills needs of the
Bioscience sector. We will look at other science needs of other
sectors, like aerospace, automotive, engineering, metals and marine
sectors in the future.
Currently, Semta is working with employers and other
stakeholders to produce a fully evidenced Action Plan for
Bioscience skills, which will be the final output of the Sector
Skills Agreement.
In 2006/2008, Semta is developing new occupational standards
that describe competency for science-based occupations in
laboratories and Biomanufacturing organisations. Employer input is
vital because they help us write and set these standards so there
reflect the needs of their businesses.
Our priority is closing the current skills gap by increasing the
supply of quality people to the Bioscience sector.
Key facts:
- Thirty-nine per cent of companies report hard to fill vacancies
and 22% have skills shortages, which is five times greater than
other sectors
- Twenty-seven per cent of companies cannot expand because they
lack the skilled people they need
- Twenty-six per cent of companies now go abroad for the skilled
people they need.
- Twenty-nine per cent of companies report skills gaps in the
current workforce
- Eighty-two per cent of companies support CPD and training
activity.