The Sport and Physical Activity Sector Workforce Professional Development Board (WPDB) has been established to function as a sub-committee of CIMSPA’s Board of Trustees and has been delegated authority as the lead on workforce policy. The vision of the WPDB is to grow the attractiveness of working in the Sport and Physical Activity sector and ensure all customers and consumers have a safe and excellent experience.
WPDB’s responsibilities
- Monitor the work of Workforce Professional Development Committees (WPDCs) and Specialist Expert Groups highlighting opportunities and recommendations for change to the strategic outcomes if deemed necessary.
- Take account of devolved education policy and ensure alignment with Home Nations frameworks and standards to ensure national priorities for the sector are achievable and sustainable.
- Oversee CIMSPA’s endorsement and quality assurance policies, procedures and processes covering CIMSPA education partners and products.
- Oversee the external quality assurance process for all education programmes developed for the sector which will be conducted and managed by CIMSPA on a non-profit making basis.
- Report to and influence the CIMSPA Board of Trustees on matters relating to workforce policies.
- To work cohesively with the National Sector Partners Group, providing support and guidance in strategic external affairs, escalating issues of concern if relevant that may need to be raised with government officials and policy makers.
WPDB Governance
The WPDB is supported by a comprehensive governance structure of boards and committees which bring stakeholders together to drive the workforce and skills agenda forward in a co-ordinated way.
The Home Nations Workforce Professional Development Boards (currently in place for Scotland and Wales) ensure the UK strategy is applied appropriately in the home nations, as education policy and funding is devolved nationally.
There are also four Workforce Professional Development Committees (WPDCs) in line with four of the industries that comprise the sport and physical activity sector:
- Community Sport
- Exercise and Fitness
- Leisure Operations
- Performance Sport
These committees take responsibility for their industry areas, providing technical advice, guidance and support.
The Sport and Physical Activity Workforce Observatory Advisory Board supports the Workforce Professional Development Boards’ and Committees’ insight requirements, providing robust data-driven insights and actionable recommendations for strategic workforce planning and development.