The state of metallurgy training in the UK is dire, with very few organisations providing the opportunity for students to gain approved CPD training. This is even lower for part-time and employed positions in metal work, as so few institutes are able to progress to regulated qualifications and have their own degrees available, in collaboration with a university partner.

In the last four years there have been little opportunities for employed, part-time students to progress their studies to higher education level in metallurgy. This actively increases the skills gap and puts the sector at risk of shrinking.