New Competent Operator Development Scheme

Mineral products sector gains new flexible route to develop competent, safe and future-ready operators

MP Skills officially launched its new Competent Operator Development Scheme (CODS) at Hillhead 2026, providing the mineral products sector with a commercially funded, apprenticeship-free route for developing competent, safe and future-ready operators across a wide range of roles.

The launch follows a successful pilot with a cohort having progressed through a structured curriculum of technical training, behavioural development, continuing professional development (CPD) and portfolio creation. The final stage will be completion of the relevant vocational qualification.

Designed in response to employer demand for more flexible workforce development options, CODS offers a robust, industry-aligned alternative to traditional apprenticeship routes. It has also been developed with the needs of employers operating in devolved nations in mind, where access to apprenticeship funding can be more limited.

The 12-month scheme is suitable for plant and process operatives working across the extractive and mineral products industry, including:

• static plant operatives

• mobile plant operatives

• weighbridge operatives

• laboratory technicians.

  The programme supports clear career development pathways, allowing learners to progress from entry-level roles into more advanced operational, technical and supervisory positions.

The Competent Operator Development Scheme combines technical development, behavioural learning and recognized qualifications within a single structured programme. Elements of the scheme include:

• MPQC Red and Blue Cards

• Role-specific vocational qualifications at Level 2 or Level 3, depending on discipline

• IOSH Working Safely

• Introduction to the Quarries Regulations and ACOP

• MHFA Mental Health Awareness

• 35h of structured CPD

• Portfolio development and final presentation

• On-site assessment and quality assurance

  The programme blends classroom delivery, webinars, on-site assessment, e-learning and pastoral support to provide a consistent, high-quality learning experience for both employers and learners.

Commenting on the launch, Neil Frost-Peacock, general manager of MP Skills, said: ‘This scheme has been built by industry, for industry. Employers told us they needed a flexible, high-quality alternative to apprenticeships and one that still delivers competence, confidence and progression.

‘The Competent Operator Development Scheme gives employers a practical way to invest in workforce capability while supporting learners with a clear, structured path to recognized competence. Launching CODS at Hillhead marks an important step forward in workforce development.’

The Competent Operator Development Scheme is aligned to MPQC standards and supported by internal and external quality assurance processes, ensuring robust, auditable evidence of competence.