The Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE&IT) has announced that it is making £500,000 of funding available to help workers who have been furloughed, made redundant or become unemployed throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
The IOE&IT is a UK professional body for those involved in international trade. In recognition of the end of the furlough scheme, it has developed a new ‘Step into International Trade' training programme, to help introduce new people into this job market.
Average salaries for customs and logistics managers start between £35,000 - £40,000 and this training package is designed to help people enter this field.
IOE&IT director general, Marco Forgione said: "Step into International Trade is about offering workers who have recently had a change in circumstances a chance to train for a new career path. The UK is at an historic junction in terms of its trading relationship with the rest of the world and businesses need more skilled people to work in international trade.
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"With 50,000 customs specialists needed to handle post-Brexit documentation let our expert trainers give you the skills you need to take your first steps into international trade," he continued.
UK Minister for Exports, Graham Stuart MP said: "International trade is the backbone of our economy, creating better jobs and higher wages, more choice and lower prices for British consumers, and economic security and prosperity for British families."
The Programme
Staff with international trade skills are needed so that firms can adapt to new post-Brexit rules, make the most of the UK's new trade agreements and expand into overseas markets. The programme, which will see its first course begin on the 2nd September, is comprised of two steps.
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The programme will be delivered online by the IOE&IT team of customs and trade experts. It will allow time for learners to research and read papers and articles as well as using the learning materials which will supplied online.
The Institute will also provide them with a subject specific tutor for each module who will be able to guide their learning.
Interested applicants, who should be either on furlough, at risk of redundancy or have been recently made redundant, who would like to learn more and take advantage of the free starter course, should sign up here.
