13 February 2020

West London Business Awards 2020

We were delighted to attend the West London Business Awards on 7 February where we were presented with a ‘Highly Commended’ Finalist Award in the ‘Education and Training Provider of the Year’ category.

The event, which was held at the Twickenham Stadium, recognised the outstanding achievements of West London businesses across five areas: SME sector leadership, sustainable and responsible business, economic growth, corporate leadership, and individual leadership.

Skills Training UK’s Head Office has been based in West London for nearly 30 years and we have supported thousands of learners into education, employment and training through various Government funded initiatives.

Our shortlisting follows a breakthrough year in our sector-led apprenticeships strategy – designing and delivering programmes to over 300 employees at 36 firms in West London, including NHS Trusts, Local Authorities, Schools, companies in Advanced Manufacturing and other sectors.

One of the major West London employers who we partnered for the delivery of Apprenticeships is The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. We designed and delivered a programme of training to over 70 apprentices and provided expert advice on the Apprenticeship Levy. Nina Singh, Director of Workforce at The Royal Marsden, said: “Skills Training UK has been the perfect partner to support us along this journey.”

At our Ealing and Wembley Training Centres we create a positive learning environment where young people aged 16-24 are supported to achieve vocational BTEC qualifications in specific work sectors and also complete high-quality work placements with local businesses.

Tutors support learners to boost their English and maths skills and provide practical advice on job searching, CV writing and interview skills to help them discover the right career path.

We also provide specialist mentoring and support through a ‘Mentor Me!’ programme for vulnerable young people who face challenging personal circumstances, having learning difficulties or disabilities, or struggle with mental health.

Graham Clarke, Director of Education and Social Mobility at Skills Training UK, said: “We were honoured to have our work in West London recognised by the West London Business Awards judges.

“We have invested in a team which is agile, entrepreneurial and passionate about what we do – making the difference to each of our customers by creating new opportunities for employment, social mobility, and business success.

“We enjoyed a fantastic night at the awards ceremony and would like to congratulate all the winners and other finalists.”

Andrew Dakers, Chief Executive of West London Business, said: “All our categories were more competitive than ever and all the entrants can take huge pride in their achievements. This year’s entries highlighted the great strides that West London businesses are making on social and environmental sustainability, as well delivering a profit for investors and owners.”

Awards host Gaby Roslin said: “It was a pleasure to host the West London Business Awards last Friday, and to see the inspiring things being done by businesses in West London. Congratulations to all the winners, highly commended businesses and finalists!”.

Judges’ Conclusion: “Skills Training UK have had a significant impact on West London’s economy through their operations in Harrow and Ealing and have shown exceptional growth, testament to clear strategy and focus. The significant majority of young learners they enrolled in 2018/19 did not have English (86%) or Maths (92%) at GCSE Grade 4/C.”