The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) announced that the Professional Lighting and Sound Association (PLASA) is the first trade association to become an awarding body in the entertainment, conference, architectural and communications industries.

Nicky Greet, professional development manager at PLASA, said, "The real benefit of us becoming an awarding body is that we can offer industry led qualifications that have been developed for people who work in a specific sector by the employers of that sector.

"This level of input into the qualification and the fact that it sits in the qualification and credit framework will guarantee that those workers who achieve their assessment will attain a credible qualification that demonstrates what they actually do, whilst also ensuring that it is delivered in such a way to fit in with the flexible nature of work in the industry sectors PLASA represents."

PLASA is part of the second wave of employers to achieve Awarding Body status and will be working with employers in the live event sector and the QCA to develop the units that make up the qualification, ensuring that it is 'fit for purpose' and delivering candidates who have the skills needed to succeed in the industry.

By becoming an awarding body, the national qualifications system is now able to recognise the specific needs of small and medium sized enterprises and larger organisations across the industry.