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SSC assessments against the Common LMI Framework

In 2009 the UK Commission set out its expectations for SSC LMI in the Common LMI Framework. This set out a shared approach to LMI gathering, analysis and dissemination, recognising that specific classification systems and key official data sources can improve the processes of collection and analysis. There is a requirement for each SSC’s LMI to be of a consistently high and robust quality, and the UK Commission therefore has a responsibility in its assessment of the SSC LMI to ensure the reports met the Common LMI framework.

One of the core specification roles for an SSC is to provide written Sector Skills Assessment reports.  It is an annual commitment for each SSC to deliver 5 reports: one for its sector in each of the four nations and one for its sector in the UK as a whole. The SSC reports are required to deliver accurate, timely and comprehensive LMI on their sector employers for use in strategic planning and communication of occupational needs.  They contain both information from reputable and recognised secondary sources as well as original research. 

The UK Commission appointed the Institute for Employment Studies to independently assess each SSC’s UK Sector Skills Assessment and their wider LMI strategy against the requirements set out in the Common LMI Framework (PDF, 215 Kb) . The assessment involved the following activities:

  • Production of measurable, detailed assessment criteria based on the LMI Common Framework (PDF, 215 Kb) ;
  • Assessment of the quality of the SSC UK Sector Skills Assessments reports (SSA’s) by:  
    • Reading and  assessing each SSC’s UK SSA reports;
    • Integrating  the four national governments’ comments where appropriate;
    • Integrating the views of the Migration Advisory Committee where appropriate;
    • Taking into account the views from the consultants working with BIS on translating SSC LMI into the Adult Advisory Careers Service offering;
    • Taking into account the views of SSCs by receipt of written additional information and a telephone conversation with each SSC Research Manager.
  • Reporting findings to the UK Commission, reporting on the extent to which the SSC met the criteria laid down in the LMI Common Framework (PDF, 215 Kb)  and focusing specifically on areas for improvement and future best practice where appropriate.

A summary of the findings and an overall assessment rating (Outstanding, Good, Satisfactory and Unsatisfactory) for each SSC can be seen in the documents below. These reports were published in October 2010.