The distribution of qualification attainment in the SkillsActive sector is very similar to that seen across the whole-England economy:

• 30% are qualified to Level 4 and above, 29% across all sectors of the economy
• 29% have below Level 2 qualifications, the same as for England as a whole

However, there needs to be a distinction between general levels of qualifications and sector-specific qualifications.  Sector-specific qualifications are believed to be in short supply, but are required by the industry for regulatory and licensing purposes.

Playwork is the most well qualified sector, as 47% of the workforce have Level
4 or 5 qualifications, and only 21% have no or Level 1 qualifications.  However, this data is misleading as the industry is dominated by primary education where the workforce is qualified to a high level.  There is a notable gap in Level 2 and 3 qualified individuals in Playwork and there is a shortage of people with playwork specific qualifications.

The health and fitness workforce is comparatively poorly qualified, as more workers are qualified to Levels 1 or 2, or have no qualifications, than in any of the other part of the sector.  Level 2 is the industry accepted minimum qualification for Fitness Instructors and Exercise to Music Teachers.

Source: Skills Needs Assessment – England 2005

For qualification level of the sector workforce in England, Scotland and Wales see:

Qualification level of the English workforce in Active Leisure and Learning, 2004

Qualification level of the Scottish workforce in Active Leisure and Learning, 2004

Qualification level of the Welsh workforce in Active Leisure and Learning, 2004