Helping “ensure a vibrant future” for industry.
Key figures in Walsall’s saddlery and leather industry have welcomed a new SEG level 1 qualification in leather.
The development was unveiled during a recent breakfast meeting of the leather town’s manufacturers. It was hosted by Performance through People, a West Midlands training provider.
SEG (Skills and Education Group) awards offer regulated qualifications and assessments to advance career opportunities.
The new SEG level 1 in leather has been developed by saddlery and other leather trade representatives.
“It aims to introduce both students and adults to the rewarding possibilities of leatherwork careers, ensuring a vibrant future for Walsall's signature industry,” said a spokesman for the group behind the initiative.
Support for businesses
The business breakfast also gave delegates a chance to network and find out about support available to saddlery and leather businesses.
Among the topics explored were council grants and business service support; opportunities via the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, trade membership of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) and the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) and the Made in Britain marque.
During the meeting, Hugh Taylor, Saddlers’ Company Prime Warden, acknowledged the industry's resilience in the face of recent challenges and expressed his hope that the diverse support available would empower businesses to stand out.
Such support is vital for safeguarding the global recognition and continued prosperity of Walsall's saddlery and leathergoods skills, he said.
