A PARTNERSHIP between two North-East firms has been selected by the Government to drive the UK's first online training initiative aimed at improving productivity in automotive companies.

The Government's flagship for lifelong learning, University for Industry (UFI), has chosen the Automotive Sector Strategic Alliance (ASSA) to be the automotive sector learning hub. ASSA is bringing in Newcastle-based new media specialists Presence Multimedia as its partner to develop the technology.

The UFI contract represents a coup for the region, which has long been recognised as a leader in the field of productivity training within its automotive businesses.

ASSA and Presence Multimedia are now working together to develop a range of interactive training modules as part of the deal, which will help other firms across the UK access valuable knowledge.

"ASSA was the forum established to address the skills needs of the automotive sector and help in the recruitment of staff for the industry," said Paul Robson, commercial director for ASSA. "To date we have trained more than 2,000 staff and secured jobs for more than 350 people.

"Over that time ASSA has gained a unique understanding of the key training issues affecting firms and their productivity and it is because of this track record that we were awarded the contract by UFI."

Due to launch in September, the hub will allow ASSA the opportunity to offer technical support to any automotive company situated in the UK by providing access to the latest productivity improvement learning online.

For informaiton about automotive sector training contact ASSA on (0191) 417 7030.