Generous British IT firms invest in staff certification training and exams

The majority of IT employers across the UK are investing in their staff by paying for training and certification exams – and employees are reaping the rewards – according to new research.

A survey of 738 British IT exam candidates by international computer-based testing company Pearson VUE found that six in ten (58 percent) had their training paid for by employers, and certification exams were paid for by employers for a similar proportion (57 percent).

IT professionals are reaping the rewards of their employers' investment, with over six in ten (64 percent) stating that gaining the qualification had a positive impact on their professional profile.

Matthew Poyiadgi, vice president EMEA at Pearson VUE, said: "Our research shows that British IT employers recognise the value of their staff gaining further qualifications as a boost to their careers, because this benefits the employer as well in terms of productivity and efficiency.

"Many are immediately reaping the rewards of training and certification, so in that context it is understandable that over 90 percent intend obtaining an additional certification in the next year. In a globalised economy, the days of simply completing a degree and then pursuing a linear career are over. In order to stay relevant and professionally attractive to employers, it is now considered vital for staff to re-train throughout their careers and embark on regular role-relevant training and assessment."

The UK results were part of a global survey of nearly 27,000 IT exam candidates in 180 countries around the world.