The Institute has recently issued a statement to clarify its role in education and training:

Statement to clarify IOR’s role in Education and Training

The IOR recognises that training and education are currently one of the highest priorities for our members as these are fundamental to ensuring a safe, competent, and sustainable industry. Whilst IOR does not provide training or approve trainers or qualifications, it does have a role to act as a professional and independent voice for the industry, working with employers, practitioners, training bodies, and educators to define what good, appropriate training and education looks like for the wide range of roles within the RACHP industry. 

Through our Education and Training Committee, we seek to understand the skills, knowledge, and behaviours necessary for individuals to operate safely, effectively, and responsibly at all levels of the industry and to ensure that they can enjoy a productive and lifelong career in the sector. We use this insight to influence Government, legislators, regulators, and training bodies, advocating for training frameworks, standards, and funding that genuinely reflect industry needs.

By leveraging our standing as a professional body, Engineering Council recognised affiliate, and business connections, the IOR aims to support businesses and individuals by helping ensure that suitable, accessible, and properly funded training and education pathways are available—thereby strengthening the industry and the individuals working within it, protecting the public and the environment, and promoting RACHP as a respected profession.

The IOR Education work provides tangible resources for employers, students and trainers including a range of Guidance Notes on topics such as skills specifications for various roles and advice on mentoring and coaching, Route Maps explaining sector qualifications available,  STEM Ambassador materials to take into schools such as lego kits, stands and fliers, Access to online training for members on leakage reduction and other skills, a website section on Skills and Talent that signposts information and resources and in 2026 IOR President’s Fund established and RACHP Industry Skills Alliance that brings together everyone in the sector to address skills and qualifications issues.

 https://ior.org.uk/education-and-careers/ 

The full statement is also here