The number of people gaining Key Skills qualifications has increased by more than a quarter in a year, according to latest figures.

In 2005/06, 2.2 million gained the awards, 27% higher than the previous year. The government sees these qualifications as equipping people better for employment.

The main Key Skills - Communication, Application of Numbers and ICT – were introduced as qualifications in 2000 and achievements have been rising by around 20% each year.

The more recently introduced ‘wider’ Key Skills qualifications - Problem Solving, Working with Others, Improving Learning and Performance - have risen by almost two-thirds in the latest 12 month reporting period.

Skills Minister Phil Hope said: “Key skills are part of our drive to improve people's skills that enable them to functional effectively at work, in learning and in life. Over two million key skills awards represents a huge step forward in the way we equip people for the workplace. Employers are starting to see the difference and seeing that the transformation in the education system means that they can recruit people with the skills they need for productivity and competitiveness.”

He added that new functional English, mathematics and ICT qualifications will be introduced to the key skills portfolio in 2010. The skills will also be required within reformed GCSEs, the new diplomas and apprenticeships.