Employers want flexibly delivered, high-quality training, subsidised as far as possible, according to a new report on the Learning and Skills Council's (LSC) Employer Training Pilots.

To date, over 130,000 employees and 18,000 employers have taken part in the employer training scheme, which targets employees with in small companies, offering basic skills and Level 2 training.

The evaluation set out to establish what attracts both employers and learners and the factors driving the high-levels of satisfaction. The results are a key element in determining the National Employer Training Programme outlined in the Government's Skills White Paper

"The report reinforces the view that employees just want to be given the opportunity to improve their skills. However, smaller organisations often find it difficult to find the budget to enable them to do this," said David Way, skills director at the LSC. "Employer Training Pilots have demonstrated that with the right support, all employers will provide their staff with training and high-quality, subsidised courses that can take place on-site or out of hours are particularly important."

The evaluation of the pilot schemes show that 70% of the companies taking part have less than 50 employees, with a quarter having less than 10 employees.

Over two-thirds of those taking part in the scheme will complete their course or qualification.

"It is critical that we all continue to learn from this employer feedback and build on it with the national programme. To date Employer Training Pilots have reached one in eight of eligible employers. There is still a huge appetite for training out there, but to reach the remaining employees it is important to listen to what they are asking for," said Way.